CET-6 2008年6月大学英语6级试题(含听力原文+试题答案)
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2008年12月六级cet-6真题及答案(A卷)Part III Listening Comprehension (35 minutes) Section ADirections: In this section, you will hear 8 short conversations and 2 longconversations. At the end of each conversation, one or more questionswill be asked about what was said. Both the conversation and thequestions will be spoken only once. After each question there will be apause. During the pause, you must read the four choices marked A), B), C)and D), and decide which is the best answer. Then mark thecorresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through thecentre.Now let’s begin with the eight short conversations:11. M: I’m asked to pick up the guest speaker Bob Russel at the airport this afternoon, do you know what he looks like?W: Well, he’s in his sixties, he stands out, he’s bald, tall and thin and has a beard.Q: What do we conclude from the woman’s remarks about Bob Russel?12. M: I am considering dropping my dancing class. I am not making any progress. W: If I were you, I st ick with it. It’s definitely worth time and effort.Q: What does the man suggest the woman do?13. W: You see I still have this pain in my back, this medicine the doctor gave me was supposed to make me feel better by now.M: Maybe you should’ve taken it t hree times a day as you were told.Q: What do we learn from the conversation?14. M: Frankly, when I sat the back of the classroom, I can’t see the words on the board clearly.W: Well, you’ve been wearing those same glasses as long as I’ve known you. Why not get a new pair? It wouldn’t cost you too much.Q: What does the woman imply about the man’s glasses?15. W: How come the floor is so wet? I almost slipped, what happened?M: Oh, sorry! The phone rang the moment I got into the shower, anyway, I’ll wipe it up right now.Q: Why was the floor wet according to the man?16. M: The instructions on the package say that you need to some assembly yourself. I’ve spent all afternoon trying in vain to put this bookcase together.W: I know what you mean, last time I tried to assemble a toy train for my son and I almost gave up.Q: What does the man find difficult?17. M: I’m getting worried about Jenny’s school work. All she talks about these days is volleyball games and all she does is practice, training and things like that.W: Her grades on the coming exams will fall for sure. It’s high time we talk(ed) some sense to her.Q: What are the speakers probably going to do?18. W: Do you understand why the local people are opposed to the new dam up the river?M: They are worried about the potential danger if the dam should break. The river is very wide above the proposed site.Q: What do we learn from the conversation?Now you’ll hear the two long conversations:Conversation OneW: Mr. White, what changes have you seen in the champagne market in the last ten to fifteen years?M: Well the biggest change has been the decrease in sales since the great boom years of the 1980s when champagne production and sales reached record levels.W: Which was the best year?M: Well the record was in 1989 when 249 million bottles of champagne was sold. The highest production level was reached in 1990 with a total of 293 million bottles. Of course since those boom years sales have fallen.W: Has the market been badly hit by the recession?M: Oh certainly, the economic problems in champagnes’ export markets that’s Europe, the United States, Japan, and of course the domestic market in France, the economic problems have certainly been one reason for the decrease in champagne sales.W: And the other reasons?M: Another important factor has been price. In the early 90s, champagne was very overpriced, so many people stop buying it. Instead they bought sparkling wines from other countries, in particular from Australia and Spain. And then there was another problem for champagne in the early 90s.W: What was that?M: There was a lot of rather bad champagne on the market. This meant the popularity of good sparkling wines increased even more. People was surprised by their quality and of course they were a lot cheaper than champagne.W: Do you think the champagne market will recover in the future?M: Oh, I’m sure it will. When the economic situation improves, I believe the market will recover.Questions 19 to 21 are based on the conversation you have just heard.19. What does the man say about champagne in the 1980s?20. Why did sparkling wines become more popular than champagne in the early 90s?21. What does the man think of the champagne market in the future?Conversation TwoW: Right, well, in the studio this morning, for our interview spot is Peter Wilson. Peter works for Green Peace. So, Peter, welcome.M: Thanks a lot. It’s good to be here.W: Great! Now, Peter, perhaps you can tell us something about Green Peace and your job there.M: Sure. Well, I’ll start by telling you roughly what Green Peace is all about. I actually work in London for the Green Peace organization. We’ve been going for a few decades and we’re a non-violent, non-political organization. We’re involved in anti-nuclear activity, conservation and protection of animals and protection and support of our eco-system. I’m the action organizer and arrange any protests.W: Right! A pretty important role, Peter. What sort of protest would you organize? M: Well, recently we’ve been invo lved in anti-nuclear campaigns. I, personally arranged for the demonstration against radioactive waste dumping in the AtlanticOcean. We’ve got a few small Green Peace boats that we harass the dumping ship with.W: Say? Hold on, Peter. I thought you said your organization was non-violent. What do you mean by "harass"?M: Well, we circle round and round the ships and get in the way when they try to dump the drums of nuclear waste in the sea. We talk to the men and try to change, you know, yell at them to stop. We generally make ourselves as much of a nuisance as possible.M: Well, people may think differently of your methods, but there’s no doubt you’re doing a great job. Keep it up and good luck. And thanks for talking with us.Questions 22 to 25 are based on the conversations you have just heard.22. What is the man’s chief responsibility in the Green Peace organization?23. What has Green Peace been involved in recently?24. How does Green Peace try to stop people from dumping nuclear waste?25. What is t he woman’s attitude towards the Green Peace’s campaigns?Section BDirections: In this section, you will hear 3 short passages. At the end of each passage, you will hear some questions. Both the passage and the questions will bespoken only once. After you hear a question, you must choose the bestanswer from the four choices marked A), B), C) and D). Then mark thecorresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through thecentre.Passage OneTo find out what the weather is going to be, most people go straight to the radio, television, or newspaper to get an expert weather forecast. But if you know what to look for, you can use your own senses to make weather predictions. There are many signs that can help you. For example, in fair weather the air pressure is generally high, the air is still and often full of dust, and far away objects may look vague. But when the storm is brewing, the pressure drops, and you are often able to see things more clearly. Sailors took note of this long ago, and cam e up with the saying, “The farther the sight, the nearer the rain.” Your sense of smell can also help you detect theweather changes. Just before it rains, odors become stronger, this is because odors are repressed in a fair high pressure center. When a bad weather low moves in, air pressure lessens and odors are released. You can also hear an approaching storm. Sounds bounce off heavy storm clouds and return to earth with increased force. An old saying describes it this way, “Sounds traveling far and wide a stormy day will be tied”. And don’t laugh at your grandmother if she says she can feel a storm coming. It is commonly known that many people feel pains in their bones or joints while the humidity rises, the pressure drops, and bad weather is on the way.Questions 26 to 28 are based on the passage you have just heard:26. Why does the speaker say we can see far away objects more clearly as a storm is approaching?27. What does the speaker want to show by quoting a couple of old sayings?28. What does the passage mainly talk about?Passage TwoMany days seem to bring numerous tasks and responsibilities. All of which apparently must be tackled right away. You spend a day putting out files, but by the end of the day, you haven’t accomplished any of the rea lly important things you set out to do. In desperation, you draft a “to-do” list, but most days, you can make little progress with it. When you look at the list each morning, a big fat cloud of doom is right at the top. Those difficult, complex, important tasks, that are so crucial to get done, and so easy to avoid. Plenty of us create a “to-do” list to address feelings of being overwhelmed, but we rarely use these tools to their best effect. They wind out being guilt-provoking reminders of the fact that will over-committed and losing control of our priorities. According to Timothy Pikle, a professor of psychology at Carlton University in Ottawa, people often draw up a “to-do” list, and then that’s it. The list itself becomes the day’s achievement, allowing us to feel we’ve done something useful without taking on any real work. In fact, drawing up the list becomes a way of avoiding the work itself. Too often, the list is seen as the accomplishment for the day, reducing the immediate guilt of not working on the tasks at hand by investing energy in the list, says Pikle. When a list is used like this, it’s simply another way in which we lie to ourselves.Questions 29 to 31 are based on the passage you have heard.29. What is the problem that troubles many people nowadays according to the speaker?30. According to the speaker, what too many people do to cope with their daily tasks?31. According to psychologist Timothy Pikle, what do people find by the end of the day?Passage ThreeIn many stressful situations, the body’s responses can improve our performance. We become more energetic, more alert, better able to take effective action. But when stress is encountered continually, the body’s reactions are more likely to be harmful than helpful to us. The continual speeding up of bodily reactions and production of stress related hormones seem to make people more susceptible to heart disease. And stress reactions can reduce the disease fighting effectiveness of the body’s immune system, thereby increasing susceptibility to illnesses ranging from colds to cancer. Stress may also contribute to disease in less direct ways by influencing moods and behavior. People under stress may become anxious or depressed, and as a result may eat too much or too little, have sleep difficulties or fail to exercise. These behavioral changes may in turn be harmful to the health. In addition, people are more likely to pay attention to certain bodily sensations such as aches and pains when they are under stress and to think that they’re sick. If the person were not under stress, the same bodily sensations might not be perceived as symptoms and the person might continue to feel well. Some researchers have suggested that assuming the role of a sick person is one way in which certain people try to cope with stress. Instead of dealing with the stressful situation directly, these people fall sick. After all, it is often more acceptably in our society to be sick and to seek medical help than it is to admit that one can not cope with the stresses of life.Questions 32 to 35 are based on the passage you have just heard.32. What does the speaker say about people who encounter stress once in a while?33. What does the speaker say frequent stress reactions may lead to?34. What are people more likely to do when they are under stress?35. What does the passage mainly talk about?Section CDirections: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea.When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill inthe blanks numbered from 36 to 43 with the exact words you have justheard. For blanks numbered from 44 to 46 you are required to fill in themissing information. For these blanks, you can either use the exact wordsyou have just heard or write down the main points in your own words.Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should checkwhat you have written.Now listen to the passage:One of the most common images of an advanced, Western-style culture is that of a busy, traffic-filled city. Since their first(36)appearance on American roadways, automobiles have become a(37)symbol of progress, a source of thousands of jobs and an almost inalienable right for citizens’ personal freedom of movement. In recent(38)decades, our “love affair” with the car is being(39)exported directly to the developing world, and it is increasingly(40)apparent that this transfer is leading to disaster.American’s almost complete dependence on automobiles has been a terrible mistake. As late as the 1950s, a large(41)percentage of the American public used mass transit. A(42)combination of public policy decisions and corporate scheming saw to it that countless(43)convenient and efficient urban streetcar and intra-city rail systems were dismantled(拆除).(44)Our air quality now suffers from the effects of pollutants emitted directly from our cars. Our lives have been planned along a road grid — homes far from work, shopping far from everything, with ugly stretches of concrete and blacktop in between.Developing countries are copying Western-style transportation systems down to the last detail.(45)The problems caused by motorized vehicles in the West are often magnified in developing nations. Pollution control measures are either not strict or nonexistent, leading to choking clouds of smog. Gasoline still contains lead, which is extremely poisonous to humans.(46)Movement in some cities comes to a virtual standstill as motorized traffic competes with bicycles and pedestrians.In addition to pollution and traffic jams, auto safety is a critical issue in developing nations.。
Part III Listening Comprehension (35minutes)Section ADirections: In this section, you will hear 8 short conversations and 2 long conversations. At the end of each conversation, one or more questions will be asked about what was said. Both the conversation and the questions will be spoken only once. After each question there will be a pause. During the pause, you must read the four choices marked A), B), C), and D), and decide which is the best answer. Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.11. A) The man might be able to play in the World Cup.B) The man’s football career seems to be at an end.C) The man was operated on a few weeks ago.D) The man is a fan of world-famous football players.12. A) Work out a plan to tighten his budgetB) Find out the opening hours of the cafeteria.C) Apply for a senior position in the restaurant.D) Solve his problem by doing a part-time job.13. A) A financial burden. C) A real nuisance.B) A good companion D) A well-trained pet.14. A) The errors will be corrected soon. C) The computing system is too complex.B) The woman was mistaken herself. D) He has called the woman several times.15. A) He needs help to retrieve his files. C) He needs some time to polish his paper.B) He has to type his paper once more. D) He will be away for a two-week conference.16. A) They might have to change their plan.B) He has got everything set for their trip.C) He has a heavier workload than the woman.D) They could stay in the mountains until June 8.17. A) They have wait a month to apply for a student loan.B) They can find the application forms in the brochure.C) They are not eligible for a student loan.D) They are not late for a loan application.18. A) New laws are yet to be made to reduce pollutant release.B) Pollution has attracted little attention from the public.C) The quality of air will surely change for the better.D) It’ll take years to bring air pollution under control.Questions 19 to 22 are based on the conversation you have just heard.19. A) Enormous size of its stores. C) Its appealing surroundings.B) Numerous varieties of food. D) Its rich and colorful history.20. A) An ancient building. C) An Egyptian museum.B) A world of antiques. D) An Egyptian Memorial.21. A) Its power bill reaches $9 million a year.B) It sells thousands of light bulbs a day.C) It supplies power to a nearby town.D) It generates 70% of the electricity it uses.22. A) 11,500 C) 250,000B) 30,000 D) 300,000Questions 23 to 25 are based on the conversation you have just heard.23. A) Transferring to another department. C) Thinking about doing a different job.B) Studying accounting at a university D) Making preparation for her wedding.24. A) She has finally got a promotion and a pay raise.B) She has got a satisfactory job in another company.C) She could at last leave the accounting department.D) She managed to keep her position in the company.25. A) He and Andrea have proved to be a perfect match.B) He changed his mind about marriage unexpectedly.C) He declared that he would remain single all his life.D) He would marry Andrea even without meeting her.Section BDirections: In this section, you will hear 3 short passages. At the end of each passage, you will hear some question. Both the passage and the question will be spoken only once.. After you hear a question, you must choose the best answer from the four choices marked A), B), C) and D). Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.Passage OneQuestions 26 to 29 are based on the passage you have just heard.26.A) They are motorcycles designated for water sports.B) They are speedy boats restricted in narrow waterways.C) They are becoming an efficient form of water transportation.D) They are getting more popular as a means or water recreation.27.A) Waterscooter operators’ lack of experience.B) Vacationers’ disregard of water safety rules.C) Overloading of small boats and other craft.D) Carelessness of people boating along the shore.28.A) They scare whales to death. C) They discharge toxic emissions.B)They produce too much noise. D) They endanger lots of water life.29.A) Expand operating areas. C) Limit the use of waterscooters.B) Restrict operating hours. D) Enforce necessary regulations.Passage TwoQuestions 30 to 32 are based on the passage you have just heard.30.A) They are stable. C) They are strained.C) They are close. D) They are changing.31.A) They are fully occupied with their own business.B) Not many of them stay in the same place for long.C) Not many of them can win trust from their neighbors.D) They attach less importance to interpersonal relations.32.A) Count on each other for help. C) Keep a friendly distance.B) Give each other a cold shoulder. D) Build a fence between them.Passage ThreeQuestions 33 to 35 are based on the passage you have just heard.33.A) It may produce an increasing number of idle youngsters.B) It may affect the quality of higher education in America.C) It may cause many schools to go out of operation.D) It may lead to a lack of properly educated workers.34.A)It is less serious in cities than in rural areas.B)It affects both junior and senior high schools.C)It results from a worsening economic climate.D)It is a new challenge facing American educators.35. A)Allowing them to choose their favorite teachers.B)Creating a more relaxed learning environment.C)Rewarding excellent academic performance.D)Helping them to develop better study habits.Section CDirections: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea. When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill in the blank numbered from 36 to 43 with the exact words you have just heard. For blanks numbered from 44 to 46 you are requiredto fill in the missing information. For these blanks, you can either use the exact words you have just heard or write downthe main points in your own word. Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should check what you have written. Compound DictationI'm interested in the criminal justice system of our country. It seems to me that something has to be done if we are to36_______ as a country. I certainly don't know what the answers to our problems are. Things certainly get 37______ in a hurry when you get into them. But I wonder if something couldn't be done to deal with some of these problems.One thing I'm concerned about is our practice of putting 38______ in jail who haven't harmed anyone. Why not work out some system 39_______ they can pay back the debts they owe society instead of 40______ another debt by going to prison, and of course, coming under the 41______ of hardened criminals? I'm also concerned about the short prison sentences people are 42______ for serious crimes. Of course, one alternative to this is to 43_______ capital punishment, but I'm not sure I would be for that. I'm not sure it's right to take an eye for eye.44__________________________________________________________________________________I also think we must do something about the insanity plea. In my opinion, anyone who takes another person's life intentionally is insane. However, 45_____________________________________________________________________________________.It's said, of course, that the person may have to spend the rest of his life or46_____________________________________________________________________________.Scripts and KeysPart ⅢListening ComprehensionSection A11. M: Good news! I am not going to have surgery after all. The doctor says I can start working out again soon and maybe play football like before in a few weeks.W: That’s terrific. It will be great if you could get back in shape in time for the World’s Cup.Q: What do we learn from the conversation?A)。
2008年6月大学英语六级考试听力原文及参考答案Section 111. M: Good news, I'm not going to have surgery after all. The doctor says I can start working out again soon and maybe play football like before in a few weeks.W: That's terrific. It would be great if you could get back in shape in time for the world cup.Q:What do we learn from the conversation?12. M: I really need to make some extra money. You know I've practically spent my entire budget for this semester.W: Why not check out the new cafeteria at Market Street? I think there are still a few openingssuitable for seniors like you.Q: What does the woman suggest the man do?13. M: I hear John left his cat in your care while he's on vacation abroad. How were you getting along with it?W: Well, it never comes when I call it. It spills its food and sheds all over the place. I can't wait till John gets back.Q: How does the woman find the cat?14. W: Hello, Professor White, I got my grade in the mail this morning, but I think there might be a mistake in my mark.M: Yeah, I've got several calls just like yours. There must be a problem with the computing system. It should be straightened out in a couple of hours.Q: What does the man mean?15. M: Professor Johnson, last night when I was putting the finishing touches on my paper, a computer failure completely wiped out my files, do you think I can have another day to retype it?W: I'm sorry, Rod. I'm leaving for a conference tomorrow and I'll be away two weeks.I suppose you can send me an E-copy.Q: Why does the man say he can't submit his assignment on time?16. W: I just called the travel agency, it's all set. On 1st June, we are heading for the mountains and will be camping there for a whole week.M:Have you checked the academic calendar?My classes aren't over until the 8th.Q: What does the man imply?17. W: I thought there was still time for me to apply for a student loan, but someone just told me that the closing date was last Tuesday.M: Are you sure? I thought we still had another month. Wait, I've got a brochure right here. Last Tuesday was the opening date.Q: What does the man imply?18. W: Look at the all the pollutants going into the air from those factories. Do you think they'll ever get that under control?M: Now with the new laws in effect and social awareness increasing, we are sure to turn things around.Q: What does the man mean?Conversation OneW: Tell me, Peter, what makes Harrods so famous?M: Well, it's the biggest department store in the UK. And its food hall and Egyptian hall are very famous. People come to Harrods just to see them.W: What is special about the Food Hall?M: It sells many different kinds of food. For example, it has 250 kinds of cheese from all over the world and more than 180 kinds of bread. Customers also love all the different kinds of chocolate. They buy 100 tons every year.W: That's amazing! And why is the Egyptian Hall so famous?M: Well, when people see it, they feel they are in another world. It looks like Egyptian building from 4, 000 years ago and it sells beautiful objects. They are not 4,000 years old, of course.W: Is it true that Harrods produces its own electricity?M: Yes, it does. 70%. Enough for a small town. To light the outside of the building, we use 11,500 light bulbs.W: Really? Tell me, how many customers do you have on an average day? And how much do they spend?M: About 30,000 people come on an average day, but during the sales the number increases to 300,000 customers a day. How much do they spend? Well, on average, customers spend about 1.5 million pounds a day. The record for one day is 9 million pounds.W: 9 million pounds in one day?M: Yes! On the first day of the January sales.W: Harrods says it sells everything to everybody everywhere. Is that really true?M: Oh yes, of course! Absolutely everything.Q19. What is the Food Hall of Harrods noted for?Q20. What does the Egyptian hall seem like to the customers?Q21. What make customers find surprising about Harrods?Q22. About how many customers come to Harrods on an average day?Conversation TwoW: Hi Kevin!M: Hi Laura, long time no see! What have you been up to lately?W: Not much, I can assure you, and you?M: Much the same except I do have some big news.W: Come on this suspense is killing me.M: No, really, what have you been doing these past few weeks? The last time I saw you, you were looking for a new job.W: Well, that's not exactly true. I was thinking about changing jobs. Luckily, they offered me a new position in the accounting department.M: A step up in the big business world.W: ??? exaggerate, but I am pleased. I had been hoping to get a promotion for a while. So when it finally came through, I was relieved. Actually, that's why I was looking for a new job. I just didn't want to work there anymore if they weren't going to recognize my efforts.M: Right, sometimes you can do your best and it seems like the others don't know you exist. I hope the money's better.W: I got an reasonable raise, now enough about me, I'm dying to hear your news.M: I getting married.W: No, you said you'd never get married.M: That was then and this is now. You've got to meet Andrea , she's great!W: This is all news to me. I didn't even know you were dating.M: We weren't, we've just been dating for two weeks now.W: And you getting married?M: I know, I can't help it. I just know she's the one.W: Well, congratulations! That's fantastic!M: Thanks, I'm glad to hear you feel that way.Q23. What was the woman doing when the man last saw her?Q24 Why does the woman say she was relived?Q25 Why is the woman surprised at the man's news?Passage 1Water scooters are water vehicles that look very much like motorcycles. Nowadays, speedy, colorful water scooters are gaining in popularity. They can travel anywhere a small boat can and particularly popular with young people. The rising popularity of the craft has raised the question of water scooter regulation. In this case, the argument for strict regulation is compelling. Water scooters are a particularly deadly form of water recreation. For example, two women were vacationing in Longboat Key while they were floating on the rubber boat along the shore, a water scooter crashed into them and kill them. Also water scooter operators have been killed or seriously injured in collisions with other water craft. Others have been stranded at the sea when their scooters either failed or sank far from shore. Many water scooter operators are inexperienced and ignorant of navigational rules, which increases the potential for accidents. The increasing popularity of the scooter has aggravated the problem, providing more water vehicles to compete for the same space. Crowded water waves are simply an open invitation to disaster.In addition to the inherent operational hazards of water scooters, they are proving to be an environmental nuisance. Beach residents complain of the noise of the scooters. The Pacific Whale Foundation on the west coast expressed concern that the scooters are frightening away an endangered species of whale that migrates to Hawaii for breeding. Regulations such as minimum operating age, restricted operating areas and compulsory classes in water safety are essential. Without such regulations, tragedies involving water scooters are sure to multiply, which makes many beaches unsafe for recreation.26. What does the speaker say about water scooters?27. What was mentioned as one of the causes of water accident?28. In what way are water scooters said to be an environmental nuisance?29. What does the speaker propose to ensure the safety of beaches for recreation?Passage 2It seems to me that neighbors are going out of style in America. The friend next door from whom you borrowed for eggs or a ladder has moved and people in there now are strangers.Some of the traditional stories of neighborliness are impractical or silly and maybe just as well that our relations with our neighbors are changing. The saying in the Bible "Love thy neighbor" was probably a poor translation, of what must have originally been, "respect thy neighbor". Love can be called up on order. Fewer than half of the people in U.S. live in the same house they lived in five years ago. So there is no reason to love the people who live next door to you, just because they happen to wander into a real estate office that listed the place next door to yours. The only thing neighbors have in common, to begin with, is proximity and unless something more develops that isn't reason enough to be best friends. It sometimes happens naturally, but the chances are very small that your neighbors will be your choice friends or that you will be theirs either. The best relationship with neighbors is one of friendly distance. You say "hello", use small talk if you see them in the yard, you discuss problems as they arise and you help each other in an emergency. The drive way or the fence between you is not really a cold shoulder but a clear boundary. We all like clearly-defined boundaries for ourselves.30. What does the speak say about the relations among neighbors nowadays?31. Why does the speak say it may be difficult for people to love their neighbors?32. What should neighbors do in the speaker's opinion?Passage 3Articles in magazines and newspapers and special reports on radio and television reflect the concern of many Americans about the increasing drop-out rate in our junior and senior high schools. Coupled with this fact is the warning that soon we will no longer have a work force to fill the many jobs that require properly educated personnel. The high student drop-out rate is not a recent development. Ten years ago, many urban schools were reporting drop-out rates between 35 and 50 percent. Some administrators maintain that drop-outs remain the single greatest problem in their schools. Consequently, much effort has been spent on identifying students with problems in order to give them more attention before they become failures. Since the drop-out problem doesn't start in senior high school, special programs in junior high school focus on students who show promise but have a record of truancy, that is staying away from school without permission. Under the guidance of counselors, these students are placed in classes with teachers who have had success in working with similar young people. Strategies to motivate students in a high school include rewarding academic excellence by designating scholars of the month, or by issuing articles of clothing, such as school letter jackets formerly given only to athletes. No one working with these students claims to know how to keep all students in schools. Counselors, teachers and administrators are in the frontlines of what seems at times to be a losing battle. Actually, this problem should be everyone’s concern since uneducated, unemployed citizens affect us all.33. Why are many Americans concerned with the increasing drop-out rate in school?34. What do we learn about the student drop-out problem in America?35. What is mentioned as one of the strategies used to motivate students?Compound DictationI'm interested in the criminal justice system of our country. It seems to me that something has to be done if we are to survive as a country. I certainly don't know whatthe answers to our problems are. Things certainly get complicated in a hurry when you get into them. But I wonder if something couldn't be done to deal with some of these problems.One thing I'm concerned about is our practice of putting offenders in jail who haven't harmed anyone. Why not work out some system whereby they can pay back the debts they owe society instead of incurring another debt by going to prison, and of course, coming under the influence of hardened criminals? I'm also concerned about the short prison sentences people are serving for serious crimes. Of course, one alternative to this is to restore capital punishment, but I'm not sure I would be for that. I'm not sure it's right to take an eye for eye.The alternative to capital punishment is longer sentences, but they would certainly costthe tax payers much money.I also think we must do something about the insanity plea. In my opinion, any one who takes another person's life intentionally is insane. However, that does not mean that the person isn't guilty of the crime, or that he shouldn't pay society the debt he owes.It's sad, of course, that a person may have to spend the rest of his life, or a large part of it, in prison for acts that he committed while not in full control of his mind.听力A卷参考答案北京导航、北京领航李勇全庄延君提供11. A) The man mightbe able to play in the World Cup.12. D) Solve his problem by doing a part-time job.13. C) A real nuisance.14. A) The errors will be corrected soon.15. B) He has to type his paper once more.16. A) They might have to change their plan.17. D) They are not late for a loan application.18. C) The quality of air will surely change for the better.Conversation19. B) Numerous varieties of food.20. A) An ancient building.21. D) It generates 70% of the electricity it uses.22. B) 30,00023. C) Thinking about doing a different job.24. A) She has finally got a promotion and a pay raise.25. B) He changed his mind about marriage unexpectedly.Passage One北京导航、北京领航李勇全庄延君提供26.D) They are getting more popular as a means or water recreation.27.A) Waterscooter operators’ lack of experience.28. B)They produce too much noise.29. D) Enforce necessary regulations.Passage Two北京导航、北京领航提供30.D) They are changing.31.B) Not many of them stay in the same place for long.32. C) Keep a friendly distance.Passage Three33. D) It may lead to a lack of properly educated workers.34. B)It affects both junior and senior high schools.35. C)Rewarding excellent academic performance.Section C37. complicated38. offenders39. whereby40. incurring41. influence42. serving43. restore44. The alternative to capital punishment is longer sentences. But they would certainly cost the tax payers much money.45. that does not mean that person isn't guilty of the crime, or that he shouldn't pay society the debt he owes.46. a large part of it in prison for acts that he committed while not in full control of his mind.。
2024年全国大学英语CET六级考试自测试卷及答案指导一、写作(15分)WritingSuppose you are planning to go to a university abroad for further study. Write an email to your friend to express your intention and seek for advice. You should write about 100 words on the ANSWER SHEET 2.Do not sign your own name at the end of the letter. Use “Zhang Wei” instead. You do not need to write the address.You should write neatly on the ANSWER SHEET 2. (10 points)Sample Answer:Dear [Friend’s Name],I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to share with you my plan of studying abroad for further education and I would appreciate it if you could offer me some advice.I have recently applied for admission to [University Name], a prestigious university in [Country], and I am eager to pursue my master’s degree there. The program I am applying for aligns perfectly with my academic interests and career goals.However, I am not entirely sure about the process of studying and living abroad. I would greatly appreciate any tips or insights you might have. For instance, what are the challenges I might face in terms of language, culture, and daily life?I am looking forward to your valuable advice and suggestions. Your experience would be of immense help to me.Best regards,Zhang WeiExplanation:This sample answer follows the structure required for a personal email. It begins with a friendly greeting, followed by the main purpose of the email, which is to share the writer’s intention to study abroad and seek advice.The writer mentions the specific university and program they are interested in, showing a clear goal. They also express their eagerness to pursue their academic and career objectives, which adds context to their decision.The second paragraph requests advice on the challenges of studying and living abroad, indicating that the writer is open to learning from their friend’s experience.Finally, the closing sentence shows gratitude for the friend’s assistance and looks forward to receiving their advice, which is a polite and appropriate way to conclude the email.This response is concise, clear, and directly addresses the requirementsof the prompt.二、听力理解-长对话(选择题,共8分)第一题Part BIn this section, you will hear a long conversation. At the end of the conversation, you will hear some questions. Both the conversation and the questions will be spoken only once. After you hear a question, you must choose the best answer from the four choices marked A), B), C), and D).ConversationM: Hi, Jenny. How was your weekend? I heard you went to the countryside with your family.W: Oh, it was great! We spent the whole day hiking in the mountains. The scenery was just beautiful.M: I bet it was. Did you take any photos?W: Yes, I did. I even managed to take a few shots of some rare wildflowers. They were really stunning.M: That’s awesome. I love wildflowers. Do you think you’ll show them to us when we meet next week?W: Absolutely! I’ll bring them with me. By the way, di d you do anything special last weekend?M: Not really. I just stayed at home and watched some movies. I was reallytired after the week at work.W: Same here. It’s always nice to relax after a busy week.M: Speaking of which, we should plan a trip together soon. How about going to the mountains for a weekend getaway?W: That sounds perfect. I could really use a break from the city.Questions1、What did Jenny do over the weekend?A) She went to the countryside with her family.B) She stayed at home and watched movies.C) She worked overtime at her office.D) She went shopping in the city.2、What did Jenny do with the photos she took?A) She sent them to her friends via email.B) She posted them on social media.C) She brought them to show her friends.D) She deleted them because they were not good.3、Why did Jenny want to go on a trip with her friend?A) She wanted to see the mountains again.B) She was tired of the city life.C) She needed a break from her studies.D) She wanted to show off her new camera.4、What is the conversation mainly about?A) Jenny’s weekend trip.B) The beauty of the countryside.C) The importance of relaxation.D) Planning a trip with friends.Answers:1.A2.C3.B4.A第二题听力原文:A: Hi, Bob. I heard you’re going to take the CET-6 exam this summer. How are you preparing for it?B: Yeah, I’m pretty nervous. I’ve been studying for hours every day, but I’m still not sure if I’m on the right track.A: Well, you know, it’s important to focus on your weak points. What are you struggling with the most?B: I think my listening comprehension is the biggest issue. I often can’t catch the main idea of the conversations in the listening section.A: That’s a common problem. You should practice listening to English news and podcasts to get more exposed to the language. Also, try to summarize what you’ve heard after each passage.B: That sounds good. Do you have any other tips?A: Definitely. Try to improve your vocabulary and grammar as well. A strong foundation in these areas will definitely help.B: Thanks for the advice, Alice. I really appreciate it.选择题:1、What is the main topic of the conversation?A) Preparing for the CET-6 examB) Taking English coursesC) Improving listening skillsD) Discussing exam strategies2、What is Bob’s main problem with the CET-6 exam?A) He struggles with grammar.B) He has difficulty with reading comprehension.C) He’s nervous about the exam.D) He finds the listening section challenging.3、What advice does Alice give Bob to improve his listening skills?A) Focus on reading more English books.B) Practice listening to English news and podcasts.C) Spend more time on vocabulary building.D) Take more English courses.4、What is Bob’s response to Alice’s advice?A) He is confident in his ability to pass the exam.B) He is grateful for Alice’s help.C) He is skeptical about the effectiveness of the advice.D) He is not interested in improving his listening skills.答案:1、A2、D3、B4、B三、听力理解-听力篇章(选择题,共7分)第一题听力篇章You will hear a passage. For questions 1 to 3, choose the best answer from the four choices marked A), B), C) and D). Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.Now, listen to the passage.The rise of the Internet has transformed the way we communicate and access information. One of the most significant impacts has been on education, where online learning platforms have become increasingly popular. This has led to a debate on whether online education can replace traditional classroom learning.Questions 1 to 3 are based on the passage you have just heard.1、What is the main topic of the passage?A) The benefits of online education.B) The challenges of online education.C) The debate between online and traditional education.D) The transformation of education due to the Internet.2、According to the passage, what has been the most significant impact of the Internet on education?A) Increased access to information.B) Improved communication skills.C) Enhanced technology in classrooms.D) Decreased need for traditional teachers.3、What is the author’s stance on the debate between online and traditional education?A) The author is strongly in favor of online education.B) The author is strongly against online education.C) The author believes that both methods have their merits and drawbacks.D) The author is unsure about the effectiveness of online education.Answers:1、C2、A3、C第二题PassageIn recent years, the importance of environmental protection has been increasingly recognized worldwide. With the rapid development of industries and urbanization, various environmental issues have arisen, such as air and water pollution, deforestation, and climate change. To address these challenges, many countries have implemented various environmental policies and regulations. However, the effectiveness of these measures is often questioned.1.In the passage, what is the main concern regarding environmental issues?A)The rapid development of industries.B)The increasing number of people living in urban areas.C)The lack of environmental protection measures.2.According to the passage, which of the following is NOT mentioned as an environmental issue?A)Air and water pollution.B)Deforestation.C)Overpopulation.3.What is the main purpose of implementing environmental policies and regulations, as stated in the passage?A)To promote economic growth.B)To address environmental issues.C)To reduce the cost of industries.Answers1.B) The increasing number of people living in urban areas.2.C) Overpopulation.3.B) To address environmental issues.四、听力理解-新闻报道(选择题,共20分)第一题News Item:A new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that air pollution is a leading cause of death worldwide. The report, released today, states that more than 7 million people die each year from diseases caused or exacerbated by air pollution. The WHO emphasizes that the most affected regions are South Asia and East Asia, where air quality is among the worst in the world. The organization calls for stricter regulations and policies to reduce emissions and improve air quality.Questions:1、How many people die each year from diseases caused or exacerbated by air pollution, according to the WHO report?A) 3 millionB) 5 millionC) 7 millionD) 10 million2、Which regions are identified as the most affected by air pollution?A) North America and EuropeB) South Asia and East AsiaC) Central and South AmericaD) Australia and New Zealand3、What is the primary call to action made by the WHO in response to the report?A) To promote the use of electric vehicles worldwideB) To provide free medical care for air pollution victimsC) To implement stricter regulations and policies to reduce emissionsD) To increase funding for research on air pollutionAnswers:1、C) 7 million2、B) South Asia and East Asia3、C) To implement stricter regulations and policies to reduce emissions第二题News Item:In the following news report, you will hear about a recent development in environmental protection policies. Listen carefully and answer the questions that follow.News Report:Lately, the Chinese government has announced a new set of environmental protection policies aimed at reducing air pollution in major cities. The policies include stricter emission standards for vehicles and industries, as well as a focus on renewable energy sources. The government has set a targetof reducing the amount of smog in cities by 20% within the next five years. Experts believe these measures will significantly improve air quality and public health.Questions:1、What is the main goal of the new environmental protection policies?A) To promote the use of renewable energy sources.B) To reduce the amount of smog in cities by 20% within five years.C) To impose stricter emission standards on vehicles and industries.D) To improve public health in rural areas.2、Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a measure in the new policies?A) Stricter emission standards for vehicles.B) Promotion of nuclear energy.C) Focus on renewable energy sources.D) Reduction of energy consumption in households.3、How does the news report describe the potential impact of these policies?A) They are expected to have little impact on air quality.B) They are believed to significantly improve air quality and public health.C) They are considered too ambitious and may not be achievable.D) They are seen as a step backward in environmental protection efforts.Answers:1、B2、B3、B第三题News ReportA recent report from the Chinese Ministry of Education reveals that the National College English Testing System (CET-6) has been revised to better reflect the actual use of English in the real world. The new exam format is expected to be implemented next year.1、What is the main purpose of the CET-6 revision according to the report?A、To increase the difficulty level of the exam.B、To better reflect the actual use of English.C、To reduce the number of test takers.D、To change the format of the exam.2、When is the new exam format expected to be implemented?A、This year.B、Next year.C、Two years from now.D、Three years from now.3、What does the report indicate about the new CET-6 exam?A、It will focus more on listening and speaking skills.B、It will include more questions about Chinese culture.C、It will have a shorter duration.D、It will have a lower passing score.Answers:1、B2、B3、A五、阅读理解-词汇理解(填空题,共5分)第一题Reading PassageThe rapid development of technology has brought about significant changes in our daily lives. One of the most remarkable advancements is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). AI has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including healthcare, education, and transportation. In this passage, we will explore the impact of AI on society and the challenges it poses.Questions:1、According to the passage, AI has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including ______.A. healthcareB. educationC. transportationD. All of the above2、The passage mentions that AI can bring about significant changes in ______.A. our daily livesB. our social relationshipsC. our economyD. our environment3、The word “remarkable” in the first paragraph ca n be best replaced by ______.A. noticeableB. extraordinaryC. averageD. insignificant4、The passage discusses the____of AI on society.A. benefitsB. challengesC. both benefits and challengesD. none5、The author of the passage seems to have a____view of AI.A. positiveB. negativeC. neutralD. skepticalAnswers:1、D. All of the above2、A. our daily lives3、B. extraordinary4、C. both benefits and challenges5、A. positive第二题Read the following passage and then fill in each blank with one word from the list below. Write the word you choose in the corresponding space on the Answer Sheet. There are more words than you need.In the digital age, 1 of data has become an integral part of our daily lives. From the moment we wake up, we are surrounded by data. Our smartphones track our every move, and our social media profiles are filled with data about our likes, interests, and connections. However, the sheer volume of data can be over whelming and it’s essential to understand how to manage it effectively.1.(A) Generation (B) Analysis (C) Collection (D) Storage2.(A) devices (B) interactions (C) sources (D) outcomes3.(A) In the past (B) Currently (C) Initially (D) Eventually4.(A) managing (B) reducing (C) analyzing (D) ignoring5.(A) data (B) information (C) knowledge (D) insightsAnswers:1.(C) Collection2.(B) interactions3.(B) Currently4.(A) managing5.(A) data六、阅读理解-长篇阅读(选择题,共10分)第一题Reading PassageIn recent years, the rapid development of technology has brought about significant changes in various aspects of our lives. One of the most notable changes is the impact of technology on education. This passage explores the ways in which technology has transformed the field of education and its implications for students and educators.Technology has revolutionized the way students learn. With the advent of online learning platforms, students can now access a wealth of resources and educational materials from anywhere in the world. This has made education more accessible and flexible, allowing students to learn at their own pace and in their own time. Additionally, interactive tools such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have enhanced the learning experience by providing immersive and engaging educational content.Educators have also benefited from the integration of technology in the classroom. Digital tools and software have simplified administrative tasks, such as grading and record-keeping. Moreover, teachers can now utilize multimedia presentations and videos to make their lessons more dynamic and engaging for students.Despite the numerous advantages, the rapid adoption of technology in education has raised concerns about its potential negative effects. One of the primary concerns is the potential for technology to create a digital divide, where students without access to technology may be at a disadvantage. Another concern is the over-reliance on technology, which could lead to reduced social interaction and a decline in critical thinking skills.The following passage provides more details about the impact of technology on education.Questions1、What is the main purpose of the passage?A. To discuss the benefits of technology in education.B. To highlight the negative effects of technology in education.C. To compare traditional and modern educational methods.D. To argue for the complete replacement of traditional education with technology.2、According to the passage, how has technology changed the accessibility of education?A. It has made education more expensive.B. It has limited access to education.C. It has increased the cost of educational materials.D. It has made education more accessible and flexible.3、What is one way technology has enhanced the learning experience forstudents?A. It has reduced the need for social interaction.B. It has made lessons more passive and unengaging.C. It has provided immersive and engaging educational content.D. It has increased the workload for educators.4、What are two advantages of technology for educators mentioned in the passage?A. It has increased the need for physical classrooms and textbooks.B. It has simplified administrative tasks and made lessons more dynamic.C. It has reduced the need for textbooks and traditional teaching methods.D. It has increased the number of hours educators need to work.5、Which of the following is a concern raised about the use of technology in education?A. It has improved students’ critical thinking skills.B. It has made education more personalized and effective.C. It has created a digital divide and reduced social interaction.D. It has made learning more enjoyable and interactive.Answers1、D2、D3、C4、B5、C第二题Reading PassagesIn the wake of the global pandemic, the importance of public health has come under renewed scrutiny. This article explores the various aspects of public health, from the challenges faced by healthcare systems to the role of technology in improving health outcomes.Passage 1Public health is the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities, and individuals. The World Healt h Organization (WHO) defines public health as “the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities, and individuals.”The global pandemic has highlighted the fragility of healthcare systems around the world. Many countries have struggled to cope with the surge in cases, leading to overwhelmed hospitals, exhausted healthcare workers, and shortages of medical supplies. This has underscored the need for strong public health infrastructure, including robust healthcare systems, effective disease surveillance, and efficient emergency response mechanisms.Questions:1、What is the main purpose of public health?A、To provide medical care to individuals.B、To prevent disease, prolong life, and promote health.C、To improve healthcare systems globally.D、To focus on emergency response during pandemics.2、What challenge has the global pandemic highlighted?A、The inefficiency of public health organizations.B、The strength of healthcare systems worldwide.C、The need for more private healthcare facilities.D、The importance of disease surveillance.3、What does the World Health Organization define public health as?A、The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health.B、The responsibility of healthcare workers during emergencies.C、The role of technology in improving health outcomes.D、The focus on individual health choices.4、Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a challenge faced by healthcare systems during the pandemic?A、Overwhelmed hospitals.B、Exhausted healthcare workers.C、Increased public health awareness.D、Shortages of medical supplies.5、What is the main focus of the article?A、The role of technology in public health.B、The challenges faced by healthcare systems during the pandemic.C、The definition and importance of public health.D、The role of individuals in improving public health.Answers:1、B2、D3、A4、C5、C七、阅读理解-仔细阅读(选择题,共20分)第一题Reading PassageIn the era of digital transformation, the traditional classroom experience has been revolutionized by the integration of technology. Online learning platforms, interactive multimedia, and virtual reality have become integral tools in the educational process. However, with these advancements come challenges that educators and students alike must navigate. This passage discusses some of the key issues associated with the use of technology in education.Paragraph 1The rise of online learning platforms has made education more accessible to students around the world. These platforms offer a wide range of courses, from basic literacy to advanced technical skills, making it possible for individuals to learn at their own pace. However, the convenience of online learning comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most significant concerns is the potential for increased isolation and decreased social interaction among students.Paragraph 2Interactive multimedia has become a staple in modern classrooms. Videos, simulations, and other multimedia tools can help students visualize complex concepts and engage with the material in a more interactive way. However, the use of multimedia can also create a barrier for students with disabilities. For example, individuals with visual impairments may struggle to access information presented in visual formats, while those with hearing impairments may find it difficult to follow along with audio-only content.Paragraph 3Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to revolutionize the way students learn. By immersing students in virtual environments, educators can create realistic simulations that allow students to experience historical events, explore scientific concepts, and even practice medical procedures. However, VR technology is still in its infancy, and it is not yet widely accessible to allstudents. Additionally, the cost of VR hardware and software can be prohibitive for many educational institutions.Paragraph 4While technology offers numerous benefits to the educational process, it also presents several challenges. One of the most pressing concerns is the potential for technology to create a digital divide. Students from low-income families may not have access to the necessary devices or internet connections to fully participate in online learning. Furthermore, the over-reliance on technology can lead to a lack of critical thinking skills and a diminished focus on foundational learning.Questions1、What is one of the main concerns associated with online learning platforms?A. The lack of social interaction among students.B. The difficulty of accessing information in visual formats.C. The high cost of VR technology.D. The limited availability of advanced technical skills.2、How can interactive multimedia create a barrier for students with disabilities?A. It limits the number of courses available to students.B. It makes it difficult for students to follow along with audio-only content.C. It requires students to have advanced technical skills.D. It increases the risk of students becoming isolated.3、What is the potential of virtual reality to revolutionize the way students learn?A. It allows students to practice medical procedures in a virtual environment.B. It increases the risk of students becoming isolated.C. It makes it difficult for students to visualize complex concepts.D. It creates a digital divide among students.4、What is one of the challenges associated with the use of technology in education?A. The potential for technology to create a digital divide.B. The decrease in critical thinking skills among students.C. The difficulty of accessing information in visual formats.D. The lack of social interaction among students.5、What is the main focus of the passage?A. The benefits of online learning platforms.B. The challenges associated with the use of technology in education.C. The importance of critical thinking skills in education.D. The potential of virtual reality to revolutionize the way students learn.Answers1、A2、B3、A4、A5、B第二题Reading PassageIn the digital age, the importance of lifelong learning has never been more evident. As technology advances at an unprecedented rate, the skills and knowledge that were once considered essential can quickly become outdated. This has led to a growing demand for continuous education and professional development.The concept of lifelong learning has been embraced by many industries and educational institutions. Companies recognize that investing in their employees’ education can lead to increased productivity and innovation. Similarly, educational institutions are adapting their curricula to meet the changing needs of students and the job market.One of the key benefits of lifelong learning is that it allows individuals to stay relevant in their fields. Whether it’s learning new software for a tech professional or mastering a new language for a global business leader, continuous education helps individuals keep pace with the latest trends and developments.However, the pursuit of lifelong learning is not without its challenges.The cost of education can be prohibitive, and balancing work, family, and personal commitments can be daunting. Despite these obstacles, the benefits of lifelong learning far outweigh the costs.Below is a text about the impact of lifelong learning on individuals and society. Please read the text carefully and answer the questions that follow.Questions:1、What is the main idea of the first paragraph?A. The rapid advancement of technology necessitates lifelong learning.B. Companies are in vesting in their employees’ education.C. Educational institutions are adapting their curricula.D. Lifelong learning has become a growing trend.2、According to the passage, what is the main purpose of investing in employees’ education for companies?A. To increase the company’s revenue.B. To improve the quality of products and services.C. To keep up with technological advancements.D. To reduce employee turnover.3、What is one of the benefits of lifelong learning mentioned in the passage?A. It helps individuals save money.B. It allows individuals to stay relevant in their fields.C. It ensures a secure retirement.D. It provides a sense of accomplishment.。
英语六级考试CET-6真题+参考答案(3套)2013年12⽉⼤学英语六级考试真题(第1套)Part IDWriting(30 minutes)(请⼲正式开考后半⼩时内完成该部分,之后将迸⾏听⼒考试)Directions:For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write an essay on happiness by referring to the saying “Happiness is not the absence of problems, but the ability to deal with them.,,You can cite examples to illustrate your point and then explain how you can develop your ability to deal with problems and be happy. You should write at least 150 words but no more than 200 words.Part II Listening Comprehension (30 minutes)Section ADirections:/n this section, you will hear 8 short conversations and 2 long conversations. At theend of each conversation, one or more questions will be asked about what was said. Both the conversation and the questions will be spoken only once. After each question there will be a pause. During the pause, you must read the four choices marked A), B), C) and D), and decide which is the best answer. Then mark the corresponding letter on Ans^wer Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.注意:此部分试题请在答题卡1上作答。
2008年12月大学英语六级考试真题Part I Writing(30 minutes)Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write a short essay entitled How To Improve Student's Mental Health?.You should write at least 150 words following the outline given below.1.大学生的心理健康十分重要2.因此,学校可以……3.我们自己应当……How To Improve Student's Mental Health?________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________Part II Reading Comprehension (Skimming and Scanning) (15 minutes)Directions:In this part, you will have 15 minutes to go over the passage quickly and answer the questions on Answer Sheet 1. For questions 1-7, choose the best answer from the four choices marked [A], [B], [C] and [D].For questions 8 -10, complete the sentences with the information given in the passage.Supersize SurpriseAsk anyone why there is an obesity epidemic and they will tell y ou that it’s al down to eating too much and burning too few calories. That explanation appeals to common sense and has dominated efforts to get to the root of the obesity epidemic and reverse it. Yet obesity researchers are increasingly dissatisfied with it. Many now believe that something else must have changed in our environment to precipitate (促成) such dramatic rises in obesity over the past 40 years or so. Nobody is saying that the ―big two‖ –reduced physical activity and increased availability of food –are not important contributors to the epidemic, but they cannot explain it all.Earlier this year a review paper by 20obesity experts set out the 7 most plausible alternative explanations for the epidemic. Here they are.1.Not enough sleepIt is widely believed that sleep is for the brain, not the body. Could a shortage of shut-eye also be helping to make us fat?Several large-scale studies suggest there may be a link. People who sleep less than 7 hours a night tend to have a higher body mass index than people who sleep more, according to data gathered by the US National Health and Nutrition Ex amination Survey. Similarly, the US Nurses’ Health Study, which tracked 68,000 women for 16 years, found that those who slept an average of 5 hours a night gained more weight during the study period than women who slept 6 hours, who in turn gained more than whose who slept 7.It’s well known that obesity impairs sleep,so perhaps people get fat first and sleep less afterwards. But the nurses’ study suggests that it can work in the other direction too: sleep loss may precipitate weight gain.Although getting figures is difficult, it appears that we really are sleeping less. In 1960 people in the US slept an average of 8.5 hours per night. A 2002 poll by the National Sleep Foundation suggests that the average has fallen to under 7 hours, and the decline is mirrored by the increase in obesity.2.Climate controlWe humans, like all warm-blooded animals, can keep our core body temperatures pretty much constant regardless of what’s going on in the world around us. We do this by altering our metabolic (新陈代谢的) rate, shivering or sweating. Keeping warm and staying cool take energy unless we are in the ―thermo-neutral zone‖,which is increasingly where we choose to live and work.There is no denying that ambient temperatures (环境温度) have changed in the past few decades. Between 1970 and 2000, the average British home warmed from a chilly 13C to 18C. In the US, the changes have been at the other end of the thermometer as the proportion of homes with air conditioning rose from 23% to 47% between 1978 and 1997. In the southern states – where obesity rates tend to be highest – the number of houses with air conditioning has shot up to 71% from 37% in 1978.Could air conditioning in summer and heating in winter really make a difference to our weight?Sadly,there is some evidence that it does-at least with regard to heating. Studies show that in comfortable temperatures we use less energy.3.Less smokingBad news: smokers really do tend to be thinner than the rest of us, and quitting really does pack on the pounds, though no one is sure why. It probably has something to do with the fact that nicotine is an appetite suppressant and appears to up your metabolic rate.Katherine Flegal and colleagues at the US National Center for Health Statistics in Hyattsville, Maryland, have calculated that people kicking the habit have been responsible for a small but significant portion of the US epidemic of fatness. From data collected around 1991 by the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, they worked out that people who had quit in the previous decade were much more likely to be overweight than smokers and people who had never smoked .Among men, for example, nearly half of quitters were overweight compared with 37% of non-smokers and only 28%of smokers.4.Genetic effectsYours chances of becoming fat may be set, at least in part, before you were even born. Children of obese mothers are much more likely to become obese themselves later in life. Offspring of mice fed a high-fat diet during pregnancy are much more likely to become fat than the offspring of identical mice fed a normal diet. Intriguingly, the effect persists for two or three generations. Grandchildren of mice fed a high-fat diet grow up fat even if their own mother is fed normally-so you fate may have been sealed even before you were conceived.5.A little older…Some groups of people just happen to be fatter than others. Surveys carried out by the US national center for health statistics found that adults aged 40 to 79 were around three times as likely to be obese as younger people. Non-white females also tend to fall at the fatter end of the spectrum: Mexican-American women are 30% more likely than white women to be obsess, and black women have twice the risk.In the US, these groups account for an increasing percentage of the population. Between 1970 and 2000 the US population aged 35 to 44 grew by43%.the proportion of Hispanic-Americans also grew, from under 5% to 12.5% of the population, while the proportion of black Americans increased from 11% to12.3%.these changes may account in part for the increased prevalence of obesity.6.Mature mumsMothers around the world are getting older. in the UK, the mean age for having a first child is 27.3,compared with 23.7 in 1970 .mean age at first birth in the US has also increased, rising from 21.4 in 1970 to 24.9 in 2000.This would be neither here nor there if it weren’t for the observation that having an older mother seems to be an independent risk factor for obesity. Results from the US national heart, lung and blood institute’s study found that the odds of a child being obese increase 14% for every five ex tra years of their mother’s age, though why this should be so is not entirely clear.Michael Symonds at the University of Nottingham, UK, found that first-born children have more fat than younger ones. As family size decreases, firstborns account for a greater share of the population. In 1964, British women gave birth to an average of 2.95 children; by 2005 that figure had fallen to 1.79. In the US in1976, 9.6% of woman in their 40s had only one child; in 2004 it was 17.4%. this combination of older mothers and more single children could be contributing to the obesity epidemic.7.Like marrying likeJust as people pair off according to looks, so they do for size. Lean people are more likely to marry lean and fat more likely to marry fat. On its own, like marrying like cannot account for any increase in obesity. But combined with others—particularly the fact that obesity is partly genetic, and that heavier people have more children—it amplifies the increase form other causes.1. What is the passage mainly about?A) E ffects of obesity on people’s healthB) The link between lifestyle and obesityC) New explanations for the obesity epidemicD) Possible ways to combat the obesity epidemic2. In the US N urse’ Health Study, women who slept an average of 7 hours a night_______.A) gained the least weightB) were inclined to eat lessC) found their vigor enhancedD) were less susceptible to illness3. The popular belief about obesity is that___________.A) it makes us sleepyB) it causes sleep lossC) it increases our appetiteD) it results from lack of sleep4. How does indoor heating affect our life?A) it makes us stay indoors moreB) it accelerates our metabolic rateC) it makes us feel more energeticD) it contributes to our weight gain5. What does the author say about the effect of nicotine on smokers?A) it threatens their healthB) it heightens their spiritsC) it suppresses their appetiteD) it slows down their metabolism6. Who are most likely to be overweight according to Katherine Fergal’s study?A) heavy smokersB) passive smokersC) those who never smokeD) those who quit smoking7. According to the US National Center for Health Statistics, the increased obesity in the US is a result of_______.A) the growing number of smokers among young peopleB) the rising proportion of minorities in its populationC) the increasing consumption of high-calorie foodsD) the improving living standards of the poor people8. According to the US National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, the reason why older mothers’ children tend to be obese remains __________.9. According to Michael Symonds, one factor contributing to the obesity epidemic is decrease of ___________.10. When two heavy people get married, chances of their children getting fat increase, because obesity is _____________. Part III Listening Comprehension (35 minutes)Section ADirections: In this section, you will hear 8 short conversations and 2 long conversations. At the end of each conversation, one or more questions will be asked about what was said. Both the conversation and the questions will be spoken only once. After each question there will be a pause. During the pause, you must read the four choices marked [A], [B], [C] and [D], and decide which is the best answer. Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.11. A) He is quite easy to recognizeB) He is an outstanding speakerC) He looks like a movie starD) He looks young for his age12. A) consult her dancing teacherB) take a more interesting classC) continue her dancing classD) improve her dancing skills13. A) the man did not believe what the woman saidB) the man accompanied the woman to the hospitalC) the woman may be suffering from repetitive strain injuryD) the woman may not followed the doctor’s instructions14. A) they are not in style any moreB) they have cost him far too muchC) they no longer suit his eyesightD) they should be cleaned regularly15. A) he spilled his drink onto the floorB) he has just finished wiping the floorC) he was caught in a shower on his way homeD) he rushed out of the bath to answer the phone16. A) fixing some furnitureB) repairing the toy trainC) reading the instructionsD) assembling the bookcase17. A) urge Jenny to spend more time on studyB) help Jenny to prepare for the coming examsC) act towards Jenny in a more sensible wayD) send Jenny to a volleyball training center18. A) The building of the dam needs a large budgetB) The proposed site is near the residential areaC) The local people feel insecure about the damD) The dam poses a threat to the local environmentQuestions 19 to 21 are based on the conversation you have just heard.19. A. It saw the end of its booming years worldwideB. Its production and sales reached record levels.C. It became popular in some foreign countriesD. Its domestic market started to shrink rapidly.20. A. They cost less. C. They were in fashion.B. They tasted better. D. They were widely advertised.21. A. It is sure to fluctuate. C. It will remain basically stable.B. It is bound to revive. D. It will see no more monopoly Questions 22 to 25 are based on the conversation you have just heard.22. A. Organising protests C. Acting as its spokesman.B. Recruiting members D. Saving endangered animals.23. A. Anti-animal-abuse demonstrations B. Anti-nuclear campaignsC. Surveying the Atlantic Ocean floorD. Removing industrial waste.24. A. By harassing them. C. By taking legal action.B. By appealing to the public D. By resorting to force.25. A. Doubtful C. Indifferent.B. Reserved D. SupportiveSection BDirections: In this section, you will hear 3 short passages. At the end of each passage, you will hear some questions. Both the passage and the questions will be spoken only once. After you hear a question, you must choose the best answer from the four choices marked [A], [B], [C] and [D]. Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.Passage OneQuestions 26 to 28 are based on the passage you have just heard.26. A. The air becomes still. C. The clouds block the sun.B. The air pressure is low. D. The sky appears brighter.27. A. Ancient people were better at foretelling the weather.B. Sailors’ saying about the weather are unreliable.C. People knew long ago how to predict the weather.D. It was easier to forecast the weather in the old days.28. A. Weather forecast is getting more accurate today.B. People can predict the weather by their sensesC. Who are the real experts in weather forecast.D. Weather changes affect people’s life remarkablyPassage TwoQuestions 29 to 31 are based on the passage you have just heard.29. A. They often feel insecure about their jobs.B. They are unable to decide what to do first.C. They feel burdened with numerous tasks every day.D they feel burdened with numerous tasks every day30. A. Analyze them rationally. C. Turn to others for help.B. Draw a detailed to-do list. D. Handle them one by one.31. A. They have accomplished little. C. They have worked out a way to relax.B. They feel utterly exhausted. D. They no longer feel any sense of guilt.Passage ThreeQuestions 32 to 35 are based on the passage you have just heard.32. A. Their performance may improve.B. Their immune system may be reinforcedC. Their blood pressure may rise all of a sudden.D. Their physical development may be enhanced.33. A. Improved mental functioning C. Speeding up of blood circulationB. Increased susceptibility to disease D. Reduction of stress-related hormones34. A. Pretend to be in better shape. C. Turn more often to friends for helpB. Have more physical exercise. D. Pay more attention to bodily sensations.35. A. Different approaches to coping with stress.B. Various causes for serious health problems.C. The relationship between stress and illness.D. New finding of medical research on stress.Section CDirections: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea. When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill in the blanks numbered from 36 to 43 with the exact words you have just heard. For blanks numbered from 44 to 46 you are required to fill in the missing information. For these blanks, you can either use the exact words you have just heard or write down the main points in your own words. Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should check what you have written.One of the most common images of an advanced, Western-style culture is that of a busy, traffic-filled city. Since theirfirst (36) ______ on American roadways, automobiles have become a (37) ______ of progress, a source of thousands of jobs and an almost inalienable right for citizens’ personal freedom of movement. In recent (38) _______, our ―love affair‖ with the car is being (39) ________ directly to the developing world, and it is increasingly (40) _______ that this transfer is leading to disaster.American’s almost complete dependence on automobiles has been a terrible mistake. As late as the 1950s, a large (41) ________ of the American public used mass transit. A (42) ________ of public policy decisions and corporate scheming saw to it that countless (43) ________ and efficient urban streetcar and intra-city rail systems were dismantled. (44) ___________________________________________________. Our lives have been planned along a road grid—homes far from work, shopping far from everything, with ugly stretches of concrete and blacktop in between.Developing countries are copying Western-style transportation systems down to the last detail. (45) _________________________________________________________. Pollution control measures are either not strict or nonexistent, leading to choking clouds of smog. Gasoline still contains lead, which is extremely poisonous to humans. (46) _____________________________________________________________________.In addition to pollution and traffic jams, auto safety is a critical issue in developing nations.Part IV Reading Comprehension (Reading in Depth)(25 minutes)Section ADirections:In this section, there is a short passage with 5 questions or incomplete statements. Read the passage carefully. Then answer the questions or complete the statements in the fewest possible words. Please write your answers on Answer sheet 2.Questions 47 to 51 are based on the following passage.One of the major producers of athletic footwear, with 2002 sales of over $10 billion, is a company called Nike, with corporate headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. Forbes magazine identified Nike’s president, Philip Knight, as the 53rd-richestman in the world in 2004. But Nike has not always been a large multimillion-dollar organization. In fact, Knight started the company by selling shoes from the back of his car at track meets.In the late1950s Philip Knight was a middle-distance runner on the University of Oregon track team, coached by Bill Bowerman. One of the top track coaches in the U.S., Bowerman was also known for experimenting with the design of running shoes in an attempt to make them lighter and more shock-absorbent. After attending Oregon, Knight moved on to do graduate work at Stanford University; his MBA thesis was on marketing athletic shoes. Once he received his degree, Knight traveled to Japan to contact the Onitsuka Tiger Company, a manufacturer of athletic shoes. Knight convinced the company’s officials of the potential for its product in the U.S. In 1963 he received his first shipment of Tiger shoes, 200 pairs in total.In 1964, Knight and Bowerman contributed $500 each to from Blue Ribbon Sports, the predecessor of Nike. In the first few years, Knight distributed shoes out of his car at local track meets. The first employees hired by Knight were former college athle tes. The company did not have the money to hire ―experts‖, and there was no established athletic footwear industry in North America from which to recruit those knowledgeable in the field. In its early years the organization operated in an unconventional manner that characterized its innovative and entrepreneurial approach to the industry. Communication was informal; people discussed ideas and issues in the hallways, on a run, or over a beer. There was little task differentiation. There were no job descriptions, rigid reporting systems, or detailed rules and regulations. The team spirit and shared values of the athletes on Bowerman’s teams carried over and provided the basis for the collegial style of management that characterized the early years of Nikes.47. While serving as a track coach, Bowerman tried to design running shoes that were _____________________.48. During his visit to Japan, Knight convinced the officials of the Onitsuka Tiger Company that its product would have____________________________________.49. Blue Ribbon Sports as unable to hire experts due to the absence of____________________ in North America.50. In the early years of Nike, communication within the company was usually carried out____________.51. What qualities of Bowerman’s team s formed the basis of Nike’s early management style?_______________________________________________________________.Section BDirections:There are 2 passages in this section. Each passage is followed by some questions or unfinished statements. For each of them there are four choices marked [A], [B], [C] and [D]. You should decide on the best choice and mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.Passage OneQuestions 52 to 56 are based on the following passage.Sustainable development is applied to just about everything from energy to clean water and economic growth, and as a result it has become difficult to question either the basic assumptions behind it or the way the concept is put to use. This is especially true in agriculture, where sustainable development is often taken as the sole measure of progress without a proper appreciation of historical and cultural perspectives.To start with, it is important to remember that the nature of agriculture has changed markedly throughout history, and will continue to do so .medieval agriculture in northern Europe fed, clothed and sheltered a predominantly rural society with a much lower population density than it is today. It had minimal effect on biodiversity, and any pollution it caused was typically localized. In terms of energy use and the nutrients(营养成分)captured in the product it was relatively inefficient.Contrast this with farming since the start of the industrial revolution. Competition from overseas led farmers to specialize and increase yields. Throughout this period food became cheaper, safe and more reliable. However, these changes have also led to habitat(栖息地)loss and to diminishing biodiversity.What’s more, demand for animal products in developing countries is growing so fast that meeting it will require an extra 300 million tons of grain a year by 2050.yet the growth of cities and industry is reducing the amount of water available for agriculture in many regions.All this means that agriculture in the 21stcentury will have to be very different from how it was in the 20th.thiswill require radical thinking. For example, we need to move away from the idea that traditional practices are inevitably more sustainable than new ones. We also need to abandon the noti on that agriculture can be ―zero impact‖. The key will be to abandon the rather simple and static measures of sustainability, which centre on the need to maintain production without increasing damage.Instead we need a more dynamic interpretation, one that looks at the pros and cons(正反两方面)of all the various way land is used. There are many different ways to measure agricultural performance besides food yield: energy use, environmental costs, water purity, carbon footprint and biodiversity. It is clear, for example, that the carbon of transporting tomatoes from Spain to the UK is less than that of producing them in the UK with additional heating and lighting. But we do not know whether lower carbon footprints will always be better for biodiversity.What is crucial is recognizing that sustainable agriculture is not just about sustainable food production.52. How do people often measure progress in agriculture?A) By its productivity C) By its impact on the environmentB) By its sustainability D) By its contribution to economic growth53. Specialisation and the effort to increase yields have resulted in________.A) Localised pollution C) competition from overseasB) the shrinking of farmland D) the decrease of biodiversity54. What does the author think of traditional farming practices?A) They have remained the same over the centuriesB) They have not kept pace with population growthC) They are not necessarily sustainableD) They are environmentally friendly55. What will agriculture be like in the 21st centuryA) It will go through radical changesB) It will supply more animal productsC) It will abandon traditional farming practicesD) It will cause zero damage to the environment56 What is the author’s purpose in writing this passage?A) To remind people of the need of sustainable developmentB) To suggest ways of ensuring sustainable food productionC) To advance new criteria for measuring farming progressD) To urge people to rethink what sustainable agriculture isPassage TwoQuestions 57 to 61 are based on the following passage.The percentage of immigrants (including those unlawfully present) in the United states has been creeping upward for years. At 12.6 percent, it is now higher than at any point since the mid1920s.We are not about to go back to the days when Congress openly worried about inferior races polluting America’s bloodstream. But once again we are wondering whether we have too many of the wrong sort newcomers. Their loudest critics argue that the new wave of immigrants cannot, and indeed do not want to, fit in as previous generations did.We now know that these racist views were wrong. In time, Italians, Romanians and members of other so-called inferior races became exemplary Americans and contributed greatly, in ways too numerous to detail, to the building of this magnificent nation. There is no reason why these new immigrants should not have the same success.Although children of Mexican immigrants do better, in terms of educational and professional attainment, than their parents UCLA sociologist Edward Telles has found that the gains don’t continue. Indeed, the fouth generation is marginally worse off than the third James Jackson, of the University of Michigan, has found a similar trend among black Caribbean immigrants, Tells fears that Mexican-Americans may be fated to follow in the footsteps of American blacks-that large parts of the community may become mired(陷入)in a seemingly permanent state of poverty and Underachievement. Like African-Americans, Mexican-Americans are increasingly relegated to (降入)segregated, substandard schools, and their dropout rate is the highest for any ethnic group in the country.We have learned much about the foolish idea of excluding people on the presumption of the ethnic/racial inferiority. But what we have not yet learned is how to make the process of Americanization work for all. I am not talking about requiring people to learn English or to adopt American ways; those things happen pretty much on their own, but as arguments about immigration hear up the campaign trail, we also ought to ask some broader question about assimilation, about how to ensure that people , once outsider s , don’t fo rever remain marginalized within these shores.That is a much larger question than what should happen with undocumented workers, or how best to secure the border, and it is one that affects not only newcomers but groups that have been here for generations. It will have more impact on our future than where we decide to set the admissions bar for the latest ware of would-be Americans. And it would be nice if we finally got the answer right.57. How were immigrants viewed by U.S. Congress in early days?A) They were of inferior races.B) They were a Source of political corruption.C) They were a threat to the nation’s security.D) They were part of the nation’s bloodstream.58. What does the author think of the new immigrants?A) They will be a dynamic work force in the U.S.B) They can do just as well as their predecessors.C) They will be very disappointed on the new land.D) They may find it hard to fit into the mainstream.59. What does Edward Telles’ research say about Mexican-Americans?A) They may slowly improve from generation to generation.B) They will do better in terms of educational attainment.C) They will melt into the African-American community.D) They may forever remain poor and underachieving.60. What should be done to help the new immigrants?A) Rid them of their inferiority complex.。
2017年大学英语六级考试真题试卷及答案明确的目标是前进的动力。
只有确定了目标,才能朝着这个方向努力,下面是为大家搜索整理的2017年6月大学真题试卷及答案,希望大家能有所收获,更多精彩内容请及时关注我们!Part I Writing.Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write a short essay entitled The Civil Servant Test Craze. Your essay should start with a brief description of the picture. You should write at least 150 words but no more than 200 words.For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write an essay explaining why it is unwise to judge a person by their appearance. You can give examples to illustrate your point. You should write at least 150 words but no more than 200 words.Section A2、Questions2-11 are based on the following passage.Fear can be an effective way to change behavior. One study compared the effects of high, fear and low-fear appeals on changes in attitudes and behaviors related to the dental hygiene(卫生).One group of subjects was shown awful pictures of(36)_____teeth and diseased gums;another group was shown less frightening materials such as plastic teeth,charts,and graphs.Subjects who saw the frightening materials reported more anxiety anda greater(37)_____to change the way they took care of their teeth than the low-fear group did.But were these reactions actually(38)_____into better dental hygiene practices To answer thisimportant question,subjects were called back to the laboratory on two(39)_____(five days and six weeks after the experiment..They chewed disclosing wafers(牙疾诊断片)that give a red stain to any uncleaned areas of the teeth and thus provided a direct(40)_____of how well they were really taking care of their teeth.The result showed that the high.fear appeal did actually result in greater and more(41)_____changes in dental hygiene.That is,the subjects(42)_____to high-fear warnings brushed their teeth more(43)_____than did those who saw low-fear warnings.However, to be all effective persuasive device it is very important that the message not be too frightening and that people be given(44)_____guidelines to help them to reduce thecause of the fear.If this isn’t done,they may reduce their anxiety by denying the message or the(45)_____of the communicator.If that happens,it is unlikely that either attitude or behavior change will occur.注意:此部分试题请在答题卡2上作答。
2008年6月大学英语六级考试A卷真题及答案Part ⅠWriting (30 minutes)注意:此部分试题在答题卡1上Part ⅡReading Comprehension(Skimming and Scanning)(15 minutes)Directions: In this part, you will have 15 minutes to go over the passage quickly and answer the questions on Answer Sheet 1 For questions 1-7,choose the best answer from the four choices marked A),B),C)and D. For questions 8-10,complete the sentences with the information given in the passage.What will the world be like in fifty years?This week some top scientists, including Nobel Prize winners, gave their vision of how the world will look in 2056,fron gas-powered cars to extraordinary health advances, John Ingham reports on what the world‟s finest minds believe our futures will be.For those of us lucky enough to live that long,2056 will be a world of almost perpetual youth, where obesity is a remote memory and robots become our companions.We will be rubbing shoulders with aliens and colonizing outer space. Better still, our descendants might at last live in a world at peace with itself.The prediction is that we will have found a source of inexbaustible, safe, green energy, and that science will have killed off religion. If they are right we will have removed two of the main causes of war-our dependence on oil and religious prejudice.Will we really, as today‟s scientists claim, be able to live for ever or at least cheat the ageing process so that the average person lives to 150?Of course, all these predictions come with a scientific health warning. Harvard professor Steven Pinker says: “This is an invitation to look foolish, as with the predictions of domed cities and nuclear-powered vacuum cleaners that were made 50 year ago.”Living longerAnthony Atala, director of the Wake Forest Institute in North Carolina, belives failing organs will be repaired by injecting cells into the body. They will naturally to straight to the injury and help heal it. A system of injections without needles could also slow the ageing process by using thesa me process to “tune” cells.Bruce Lahn, professor of human genetics at the University of Chicago, anticipates the ability to produce“unlimited supplies” of transplantable human organs without the needed a new organ,such as kidney, the surgeon would contac t a commercial organ producer, give him the patient‟s immuno-logical profile and would then be sent a kidney with the correct tissue type.These organs would be entirely composed of human cells, grown by introducing them into animal hosts, and alloweing th em to deveoop into and organ in place of the animal‟s own. But Prof. Lahn believes that farmed brains would be “off limits”.He says: “Very few people would want to have their brains replaced by someone else‟s and we probably don‟t want to put a human brain ing an animal body.”Richard Miller, a professor at the University of Michigan, thinks scientist could develop“an thentic anti-ageing drugs” by working out how cells in larger animals such as whales and human resist many forms of injuries. He says:“It‟s i s now routine, in laboratory mammals, to extend lifespan by about 40%. Turning on the same protective systems in people should, by 2056, create the first class of 100-year-olds who are as vigorous and productive as today‟s people in their 60s”AliensConli n Pillinger ,professor of planerary sciences at the Open University,says:”I fancy that at least we will be able to show that life didi start to evolve on Mars well as Earth.”Within 50years he hopes scientists will prove that alien life came here in Martian meteorites(陨石).Chris McKay,a planetary scientist at NASA‟s Ames Research Center.believes that in 50 years we may find evidence of alien life in ancient permanent forst of Mars or on other planers.He adds:”There is even a chance we will find alien life f orms here on Earth.It mightbe as different as English is to Chinese.Priceton professor Freeman Dyson thinks it “likely” that life form outer space will be discovered defore 2056 because the tools for finding it, such as optical and radio detection and data processing,are improving.He ays:”As soon as the first evidence is found,we will know what to look for and additional discoveries are likely to follow quickly.Such discoveries are likely to have revolutionary consequences for biology, astronomy and philosophy. They may change the way we look at ourselves and our place in the universe.Colonies in spaceRichard Gottprofessor of astrophysics at Princeton,hopes man will set up a self-sufficient colony on Mars,which would be a “life insurance policy against w hatever catastrophes,natural or otherwise,might occur on Earth.“The real space race is whether we will colonise off Earth on to other worlds before money for the space programme runs out.”Spinal injuriesEllen Heber-Katz,a professor at the Wistar Institude in Philadelphia,foresees cures for inijuries causing paralysis such as the one that afflicated Superman star Christopher Reeve.She says:”I believe that the day is not far off when we will be able to profescribe drugs that cause severes(断裂的) spinal cords to heal,hearts to regenerate and lost limbs to regrow.“People will come to expect that injured or diseased organs are meant to be repaired from within,inmuch the same way that we fix an appliance or automobile:by replanc ing the damaged part with a manufacturer-certified new part.”She predict that within 5 to 10 years fingers and toes will be regrown and limbs will start to be regrown a few years later. Reparies to the nervous system will start with optic nerves and,in time,the spinal cord.”Within 50years whole body replacement will be routine,”Prof.Heber-Katz adds.ObesitySydney Brenner,senior distinguished fellow of the Crick-Jacobs Center in California,won the 2002 Noblel Prize for Medicine and says that if there is a global disaster some humans w ill survive-and evolition will favour small people with bodies large enough to support the required amount of brain power.”Obesity,”he says.”will have been solved.”RobotsRodney Brooks,professor of robotice at MIT,says the problems of developing artificia l intelligence for robots will be at least partly overcome.As a result,”the possibilities for robots working with people will open up immensely”EnergyBill Joy,green technology expert in Califomia,says:”The most significant breakthrought would be to have an inexhaustible source of safe,green energy that is substantially cheaper than any existing energy source.”Ideally,such a source would be safe in that it could not be made into weapons and would not make hazardous or toxic waste or carbon dioxide,the main greenhouse gas blamed for global warming.SocietyGeoffrey Miller,evolutionary psychologist at the University of New Mexico,says:”The US will follow the UKin realizing that religion is nor a prerequisite (前提)for ordinary human decency.“This,scien ce will kill religion-not by reason challenging faith but by offering a more practical,uniwersal and rewarding moral frameworkfor human interaction.”He also predicts that “ahsurdly wasteful”displays of wealth will become umfashionable while the importance of close-knit communities and families will become clearer.These there changer,he says,will help make us all”brighe\ter,wiser,happier and kinder”.注意:此部分试题请在答题卡1上作答。
2025年全国大学英语CET六级考试复习试卷与参考答案一、写作(15分)WritingPart AFor this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write a short essay on the topic of “The Importance of Learning a Second Language”. You should write at least 120 words following the outline given below in Chinese:1.简述学习第二语言的重要性;2.结合个人经历或身边例子,阐述学习第二语言带来的好处;3.总结学习第二语言对个人和社会的益处。
Your WritingThe Importance of Learning a Second LanguageIn an era of globalization, learning a second language has become increasingly important. Not only does it open up opportunities for personal and professional growth, but it also fosters cultural understanding and communication across borders.From my own experience, learning English has greatly enhanced my ability to communicate with people from different cultures. For instance, during mystudy abroad, being able to speak English fluently enabled me to make friends easily and participate in various social activities. Moreover, in the workplace, having a command of a second language can significantly boost one’s career prospects and job satisfaction.A personal example of the benefits of learning a second language is the case of my friend John. After learning French, he secured a job in a multinational company where French is one of the working languages. This not only provided him with a competitive edge in the job market but also allowed him to travel and work in France, enriching his life experiences.In conclusion, learning a second language is not only beneficial for personal development but also for the broader society. It promotes cultural diversity, enhances global connectivity, and equips individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world.Writing Tips and AnalysisThe essay follows the given outline and meets the minimum word count requirement. It starts by stating the importance of learning a second language in today’s globalized world. The writer then uses personal experience to illustrate the benefits, making the essay more relatable and authentic.The essay also includes a specific example (John’s story) to support the writer’s point, demonstrating the practical application of learning a second language. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and reinforces the overall argument.To further improve the essay, the writer could consider adding more specific details about the personal experience or the benefits of learning a second language, such as improved cognitive abilities or increased job opportunities in specific fields.二、听力理解-长对话(选择题,共8分)第一题W: Hi, John. I heard you’re planning to take the CET-6 exam this year. How’s your preparation going?M: Well, I’ve been studying pretty hard, but I’m still not sure about my listening skills. Do you have any tips?W: Sure, one thing I found helpful is to practice listening to English news and podcasts regularly.M: That sounds good. I’ve been trying to do that, but sometimes it’s hard to follow the conversations.W: It’s normal. Try to listen to different accents and speakin g speeds. That will help you get used to them.M: Another problem I have is understanding the main idea of the conversations.I often get lost in the details.W: Focus on the keywords and the overall context. It’s important to understand the main point rather than getting caught up in the details.M: I see. Thanks for the advice. I’ll try to incorporate those strategiesinto my study routine.Questions:1、What is the main topic of the conversation?A) The difficulty of the CET-6 examB) Tips for improving listening skillsC) The importance of understanding the main ideaD) Different types of English listening materials2、What does the woman suggest the man do to improve his listening skills?A) Read more English novelsB) Practice speaking English with native speakersC) Listen to English news and podcasts regularlyD) Focus on learning new vocabulary3、What challenge does the man face when listening to conversations?A) He finds it difficult to understand different accentsB) He struggles to follow the conversations due to his slow speaking speedC) He often gets lost in the details instead of focusing on the main ideaD) He has trouble distinguishing between similar-sounding words4、What is the woman’s final piece of advice to the man?A) To learn a new word every dayB) To practice listening to different accents and speaking speedsC) To focus on understanding the overall contextD) To use a dictionary to look up unknown wordsAnswers:1.B) Tips for improving listening skills2.C) Listen to English news and podcasts regularly3.C) He often gets lost in the details instead of focusing on the main idea4.B) Practice listening to different accents and speaking speeds第二题Listen to the following conversation and answer the questions by choosing the best response.M: Hey, have you heard about the new CET-6 exam format this year?W: Yeah, I’ve read about it. They’ve made some changes to the Listening section.M: Really? What kind of changes?W: Well, they’ve added more long conversations and l ess short conversations. Also, the questions are more focused on understanding the main idea and details.M: That sounds challenging. So, how do these long conversations work?W: They’re typically about 5-7 minutes long, and they include a variety of topics like academic lectures, news reports, and interviews.M: Interesting. Let’s listen to one and see how we do.[听力材料]Q1: What is the main purpose of the new CET-6 exam format for the Listening section?A) To make the test more difficultB) To focus on detailed listening skillsC) To emphasize understanding the main idea and detailsD) To reduce the number of listening tasksQ2: How long are the long conversations in the new CET-6 Listening section?A) 3-4 minutesB) 5-7 minutesC) 10-12 minutesD) 15-20 minutesQ3: What is one of the topics included in the long conversations?A) Cooking recipesB) Academic lecturesC) Sports eventsD) Travel guidesQ4: According to the conversation, what is the most important skill to develop for the new CET-6 Listening section?A) Identifying specific informationB) Understanding the main ideaC) Predicting the next part of the conversationD) Recognizing different accentsAnswers:Q1: C) To emphasize understanding the main idea and detailsQ2: B) 5-7 minutesQ3: B) Academic lecturesQ4: B) Understanding the main idea三、听力理解-听力篇章(选择题,共7分)第一题Passage 1In the world of technology, innovation is key to staying competitive. One such innovation is the development of artificial intelligence (AI), which has been revolutionizing various industries. The following article discusses the impact of AI on the job market and its potential consequences.The rapid advancement of AI technology has led to concerns about job displacement. Many argue that AI will replace human workers, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, customer service, and transportation. However, others believe that AI will create new job opportunities and enhance productivity.1、What is the main topic of the article?A) The benefits of AI in different industriesB) The impact of AI on the job marketC) The challenges of implementing AI technologyD) The future of human workers in the AI era2、According to the passage, which of the following is a concern regarding the use of AI?A) AI will improve the quality of customer serviceB) AI will lead to job displacementC) AI will reduce the need for human workersD) AI will increase the cost of production3、What is the author’s stance on the potential consequences of AI?A) The author is optimistic about the future of AIB) The author is concerned about the potential negative effects of AIC) The author believes AI will solve all the problems in the job marketD) The author is indifferent to the impact of AIAnswers:1、B2、B3、B第二题Passage OneIn the United States, there’s a growing movement to bring back the “maker” spirit in schools. This spirit encourages students to learn by making, doing, and tinkering with various materials and tools. The movement is part of a larger effort to revitalize American manufacturing and to help students develop the skills they need for the modern workforce.The push for a “maker” education is driven by s everal factors. One is the decline in American manufacturing over the past few decades. As factories haveclosed and jobs have moved overseas, the country has lost its competitive edge in the global market. Another factor is the rise of new technologies that are transforming the way people work and live. To succeed in this rapidly changing world, students need to be able to think critically, solve problems creatively, and work with their hands.The “maker” education movement is not just about teaching stude nts to make things. It’s also about fostering a culture of innovation and curiosity. Schools that embrace the “maker” philosophy often have workshops equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and other advanced tools. Students learn to design and build prototypes, experiment with new materials, and work in teams to tackle complex challenges.One of the most popular programs in the “maker” movement is the FabLab, which stands for “Fabrication Laboratory.” FabLabs are small, flexible workshops where students can learn to make almost anything. They provide access to a variety of tools and resources, including computers, software, and materials, and encourage students to explore their interests and passions.1、Why is there a growing movement to bring back the “maker” spirit in schools?A、To revitalize American manufacturing.B、To help students develop skills for the modern workforce.C、To encourage students to learn by making and doing.D、All of the above.2、What is one of the factors driving the “maker” educatio n movement?A、The increase in American manufacturing.B、The decline in American manufacturing.C、The rise of new technologies.D、The loss of competitive edge in the global market.3、What is the main purpose of the “maker” education movement?A、To teach students to make things.B、To foster a culture of innovation and curiosity.C、To provide access to advanced tools and resources.D、To encourage students to explore their interests and passions.Answers:1、D2、C3、B四、听力理解-新闻报道(选择题,共20分)第一题News ReportA recent study by the Chinese Ministry of Education has shown that the number of students participating in the College English Test Band 6 (CET-6) has increased significantly over the past decade. The CET-6 is a standardized test of English proficiency for non-English majors in Chinese universities.According to the report, the reasons for this increase are mainly due to the growing importance of English in the global job market and the increasing number of international exchanges and collaborations between Chinese universities and foreign institutions.Questions:1、What is the main focus of the news report?A) The decline of the CET-6 examB) The reasons behind the increasing number of CET-6 participantsC) The impact of the CET-6 exam on Chinese studentsD) The future of the CET-6 exam2、What is one of the reasons for the increase in the number of CET-6 participants?A) The decrease in the importance of English in the global job marketB) The decrease in the number of international exchanges between Chinese and foreign universitiesC) The government’s decision to make the CET-6 exam mandatory for all university studentsD) The increasing number of Chinese students studying abroad3、According to the news report, what does the Chinese Ministry of Education believe about the importance of English in today’s world?A) English is becoming less importantB) English is losing its significance in the global job marketC) English is still a crucial language for international communication and collaborationD) English is no longer needed for international exchanges and collaborationsAnswers:1、B2、D3、C第二题News Content:The following is a report on the recent changes in the education system in China.1、Why is the Chinese government making changes to the education system?A、To improve the quality of education.B、To reduce the pressure on students.C、To encourage more students to attend college.2、What is one of the main goals of the new education system?A、To have more students study abroad.B、To ensure every student can attend college.C、To focus on practical skills instead of theoretical knowledge.3、How will the new system affect the students’ study load?A、It will increase the number of hours students study.B、It will decrease the number of hours students study.C、It will not significantly change the number of hours students study.Answers:1、B2、C3、B第三题News Item:A new study shows that the use of mobile phones has become a major source of stress for young adults. The research, conducted by the University of London, indicates that constant notifications and the pressure to be connected 24/7 are taking a toll on the mental health of young people. According to the study, around 70% of young adults report feeling anxious or overwhelmed when they receive a notification from their phone. Experts suggest that setting boundaries for phone use and practicing digital detox could help alleviate some of the stress.Questions:1、What is the main concern expressed in the news about the use of mobile phones among young adults?A) They are spending too much time on social media.B) It is causing them stress and mental health issues.C) It is affecting their academic performance.D) They are not using it enough for communication.2、According to the study, what percentage of young adults report feeling anxious or overwhelmed when they receive a notification from their phone?A) 50%B) 60%C) 70%D) 80%3、What are experts suggesting as a solution to the issue discussed in the news?A) Increasing the number of hours spent on mobile phones.B) Banning mobile phones from schools and work.C) Setting boundaries for phone use and practicing digital detox.D) Providing more mobile phones to young adults.Answers:1、B) It is causing them stress and mental health issues.2、C) 70%3、C) Setting boundaries for phone use and practicing digital detox.五、阅读理解-词汇理解(填空题,共5分)第一题Read the following passage and fill in each blank with ONE word that best fits the context.The rapid development of technology has revolutionized the way we live and work. From the advent of the internet to the rise of artificial intelligence, the impact of technology on our daily lives is undeniable. One area that hasseen significant transformation is the 1 (1) of communication.The 2 (2) of smartphones and social media platforms has made it easier than ever to connect with people across the globe. However, this convenience has also brought about challenges such as 3 (3) and privacy concerns.In the workplace, technology has streamlined various processes, making them more efficient. Automation has 4 (4) many repetitive tasks, allowing employees to focus on more creative and strategic work.Despite these advancements, it is important to recognize that technology should be used responsibly. Over-reliance on technology can lead to a lack of 5 (5) and reduced face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for personal and professional growth.1、communication2、advent3、distraction4、replaced5、empathy第二题Read the following passage and fill in each blank with one word that best fits the context. Each word is provided in a list of choices. Choose the correct answer.The digital age has brought about significant changes in the way we communicate and access information. Social media platforms have become anintegral part of our daily lives, allowing us to connect with friends and family across the globe. However, this constant connectivity has raised concerns about privacy and security. Many experts argue that the convenience of digital communication comes at the cost of our personal information being exposed to potential misuse. To protect our data, it is crucial to be aware of the risks and take appropriate measures.1、_________ communication has become a norm, it is essential to be cautious about sharing sensitive information online.A. ConstantB. ConstantlyC. ContinuallyD. Continual2、Social media platforms have become an_________ part of our daily lives, connecting us with people from all over the world.A. integralB. integrableC. integratedD. integralize3、Many experts argue that the convenience of digital communication_________ at the cost of our personal information being exposed to potential misuse.A. resultsB. results inC. resultedD. resulted in4、To protect our data, it is crucial to be aware of the risks andtake_________ measures.A. appropriateB. appropriatelyC. appropriatelyD. appropriate5、The_________ of digital communication has raised concerns about privacy and security.A. convenienceB. convenienceC. convenienceD. convenience答案:1、A2、A3、B4、D5、A六、阅读理解-长篇阅读(选择题,共10分)第一题Reading PassagesPassage OneThe digital age has brought about significant changes in the way we communicate, work, and live. One of the most profound impacts has been on education, with online learning platforms gaining immense popularity. While some argue that online learning is the future of education, others believe that traditional classroom settings are irreplaceable. This passage explores the pros and cons of online learning versus traditional education.Questions:1、What is the main topic of the passage?A. The benefits of online learning.B. The drawbacks of traditional education.C. The comparison between online learning and traditional education.D. The impact of technology on education.2、According to the passage, what is one advantage of online learning?A. It provides a more personalized learning experience.B. It is more expensive than traditional education.C. It requires less time and effort from students.D. It is less effective than traditional education.3、What is a potential disadvantage of online learning mentioned in thepassage?A. It improves student engagement and motivation.B. It can be accessed from anywhere in the world.C. It often lacks the face-to-face interaction with teachers.D. It is more flexible in terms of schedule and timing.4、The passage suggests that traditional education is still important because:A. It is less accessible to students in remote areas.B. It promotes better social skills and teamwork.C. It provides more hands-on learning opportunities.D. It is more challenging for students to stay focused.5、Which of the following statements is NOT mentioned in the passage?A. Online learning is more convenient for students.B. Traditional education is more effective for some subjects.C. Online learning can be more expensive due to technology costs.D. Both online learning and traditional education have their advantages and disadvantages.Answers:1、C2、A3、C4、B5、C第二题In the world of fashion, trends come and go with the seasons. This year, however, there seems to be a new trend that is not just seasonal but also global. It’s called “slow fashion,” and it’s all about taking a more mindful approach to clothing consumption.The concept of slow fashion was first introduced by the Slow Food Movement in the 1980s. It’s based on the idea that people should slow down and enjoy the process of eating and living, rather than rushing through life. The same philosophy is now being applied to the fashion industry.One of the main goals of slow fashion is to reduce waste. Traditional fast fashion relies on mass production and often results in a high level of clothing waste. Slow fashion encourages consumers to buy fewer, higher-quality items that will last longer. This not only reduces waste but also supports sustainable practices.Another key aspect of slow fashion is the emphasis on ethical production. Many fast fashion brands have been criticized for their poor working conditions and exploitation of workers. Slow fashion brands, on the other hand, prioritize fair wages and safe working environments.Here is an article that discusses the rise of slow fashion and its impact on the industry.Questions:1、What is the main idea of the passage?A) The Slow Food Movement’s influence on the fashion industry.B) The environmental and ethical issues in the traditional fashion industry.C) The emergence of slow fashion as a new global trend.D) The benefits of buying fewer, higher-quality items.2、The phrase “slow fashion” in the first paragraph is closest in meaning to:A) Fashion that is popular for a long time.B) Fashion that is designed to be worn for a long time.C) Fashion that is made using traditional methods.D) Fashion that is not influenced by seasonal trends.3、According to the passage, what is one of the main goals of slow fashion?A) To promote fast fashion brands.B) To increase clothing consumption.C) To reduce clothing waste.D) To encourage seasonal fashion trends.4、Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an aspect of slow fashion?A) Reducing waste.B) Supporting sustainable practices.C) Increasing the number of fashion items.D) Prioritizing fair wages.5、The author’s attitude towards slow fashion can best be described as:A) Critical.B) Skeptical.C) Supportive.D) Indifferent.Answers:1、C2、B3、C4、C5、C七、阅读理解-仔细阅读(选择题,共20分)第一题Reading Passage 1The digital age has brought about significant changes in the way we communicate, learn, and work. One of the most notable transformations is the rise of online learning platforms, which have democratized education by making it accessible to a wider audience. However, this shift has also raised questions about the effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom settings.Online learning platforms offer flexibility and convenience, allowing students to learn at their own pace and from any location. They provide a wealthof resources, including videos, interactive quizzes, and forums for discussion. On the other hand, critics argue that the lack of face-to-face interaction and the absence of a structured environment can hinder the learning process.The following passage discusses the advantages and challenges of online learning.Questions:1.What is the main topic of the first paragraph?A. The rise of online learning platformsB. The effectiveness of online learningC. The benefits of traditional classroom settingsD. The impact of technology on education2.According to the passage, what is one advantage of online learning?A. It provides a structured environmentB. It promotes face-to-face interactionC. It allows students to learn at their own paceD. It offers a limited range of resources3.Which of the following is mentioned as a challenge of online learning?A. The lack of flexibilityB. The absence of face-to-face interactionC. The high cost of online coursesD. The difficulty in maintaining focus4.The passage suggests that online learning platforms:A. Have replaced traditional classrooms completelyB. Are more effective than traditional classroomsC. Are less effective than traditional classroomsD. Have a mixed impact on the learning process5.What is the author’s overall tone regarding online learning?A. NegativeB. PositiveC. NeutralD. CriticalAnswers:1.A2.C3.B4.D5.C第二题Reading PassageThe rapid development of technology in the 21st century has brought about significant changes in our lives. One of the most influential advancements is the internet, which has revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and conduct business. This passage discusses the impact of the internet on various aspects of our lives.In the following paragraphs, you will read a passage about the internet. After reading it, answer the questions that follow.PassageThe internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, affecting everything from personal relationships to professional endeavors. Here are some of the ways in which the internet has transformed our world:munication: The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate. With email, instant messaging, and social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, we can now connect with people from all over the world in real-time. This has made it easier to maintain long-distance relationships and collaborate with colleagues regardless of their location.2.Access to Information: The internet has democratized access to information. We can now find information on virtually any topic with a few clicks of a mouse. This has opened up a world of knowledge to everyone, regardless of their background or education level.cation: Online education has become increasingly popular, offering students the flexibility to learn at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes. This has made higher education more accessible to a wider audience.4.Business: The internet has transformed the way businesses operate.E-commerce has become a significant revenue stream for many companies, allowing them to reach customers worldwide. Additionally, the internet has enabled remote work, allowing employees to work from anywhere.5.Entertainment: The internet has become a major source of entertainment. We can stream movies and TV shows, listen to music, and play games online. Thishas changed the way we consume entertainment, making it more convenient and accessible.Questions1、What is the main purpose of the passage?A) To discuss the negative effects of the internet.B) To describe the impact of the internet on various aspects of our lives.C) To promote the use of the internet.D) To argue against the use of the internet.2、Which of the following statements is NOT mentioned in the passage?A) The internet has made communication easier.B) The internet has made it harder to find information.C) Online education has become popular.D) The internet has changed the way businesses operate.3、According to the passage, how has the internet affected personal relationships?A) It has made them more difficult to maintain.B) It has made them more convenient.C) It has had no significant impact.D) It has caused relationships to become more superficial.4、What is one of the advantages of online education mentioned in the passage?A) It is less expensive.B) It requires less time.C) It is more flexible.D) It is more rigorous.5、How has the internet changed the way we consume entertainment?A) It has made it less convenient.B) It has made it more expensive.C) It has made it more accessible.D) It has made it less diverse.Answers1、B2、B3、B4、C5、C八、翻译-汉译英(15分)Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English. You should write your answer on Answer Sheet 2.Passage:The Chinese idiom “百闻不如一见” (Seeing is believing) perfectly captures the essence of a famous say ing by the Greek philosopher Demosthenes: “The unexamined life is not worth living.” This sentiment is echoed in the popular Chinese proverb, “眼见为实,耳听为虚” (What one sees is real, what one hears。
Part ⅠWritingDirections:For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write a short essay entitled Will E-books Replace Traditional Books? You should at least write 150 words following the outline given below.1.随着信息技术的发展,电子图书越来越多;2.有人认为电子图书将会取代传统图书,理由是……3.我的看法。
Part ⅡReading Comprehension (Skimming and Scanning)Directions: In this part, you will have 15 minutes to go over the passage quickly and answer the questions on Answer Sheet 1 For questions 1-7,choose the best answer from the four choices marked A), B), C) and D). For questions 8-10,complete the sentences with the information given in the passage.What will the world be like in fifty years?This week some top scientists, including Nobel Prize winners, gave their vision of how the world will look in 2056,fron gas-powered cars to extraordinary health advances, John Ingham reports on what the world‟s finest minds believe our futures will be.For those of us lucky enough to live that long,2056 will be a world of almost perpetual youth, where obesity is a remote memory and robots become our companions.We will be rubbing shoulders with aliens and colonizing outer space. Better still, our descendants might at last live in a world at peace with itself.The prediction is that we will have found a source of inexhaustible, safe, green energy, and that science will have killed off religion. If they are right we will have removed two of the main causes of war-our dependence on oil and religious prejudice.Will we really, as today‟s scientists claim, be able to live for ever or at least cheat the ageing process so that the average person lives to 150?Of course, all these predictions come with a scientific health warning. Harvard professor Steven Pinker says: “This is an invitatio n to look foolish, as with the predictions of domed cities and nuclear-powered vacuum cleaners that were made 50 year ago.”Living longerAnthony Atala, director of the Wake Forest Institute in North Carolina, believes failing organs will be repaired by injecting cells into the body. They will naturally to straight to the injury and help heal it. A system of injections without needles could also slow the ageing process by using the same process to “tune” cells.Bruce Lahn, professor of human genetics at the University of Chicago, anticipates the ability to produce “unlimited supplies” of transplantable human organs without the needed a new organ, such as kidney, the surgeon would contact a commercial organ producer, give him the patient‟s immunologic al profile and would then be sent a kidney with the correct tissue type.These organs would be entirely composed of human cells, grown by introducing them into animal hosts, and allowing them to devel op into and organ in place of the animal‟s own. But Prof. Lahn believes that farmed brains would be “off limits”.He says: “Very few people would want to have their brains replaced by someone else‟s and we probably don‟t want to put a human brain ing an animal body.”Richard Miller, a professor at the University of Michigan, thinks scientist could develop “a uthentic anti-ageing drugs” by working out how cells in larger animals such as whales and human resist many forms of injuries. He says: “It‟s is now routine, in laboratory mammals, to extend lifespan by about 40%. Turning on the same protective systems in people should, by 2056, create the first class of 100-year-olds who are as vigorous and productive as today‟s people in their 60s”AliensConlin Pillinger, professor of planetary sciences at the Open University, says: ”I fancy that at least we will be able to show that life did start to evolve on Mars well as Earth. ”Within 50years he hopes scientists will prove that alien life came here in Martian meteorites (陨石).Chris McKay, a planetary scien tist at NASA‟s Ames Research Center, believes that in 50 years we may find evidence of alien life in ancient permanent frost of Mars or on other planers.He adds: ”There is even a chance we will find alien life forms here on Earth. It might be as different as English is to Chinese.Priceton professor Freeman Dyson thinks it “likely” that life form outer space will be discovered before 2056 because the tools for finding it, such as optical and radio detection and data processing, are improving.He says: ”As soon as the first evidence is found,we will know what to look for and additional discoveries are likely to follow quickly. Such discoveries are likely to have revolutionary consequences for biology, astronomy and philosophy. They may change the way we look at ourselves and our place in the universe.Colonies in spaceRichard Gott, professor of astrophysics at Princeton, hopes man will set up a self-sufficient colony on Mars, which would be a “life insurance policy against whatever catastrophes, natural or otherwise, might occur on Earth.“The real space race is whether we will colonise off Earth on to other worlds before money for the space programme runs out.”Spinal injuriesEllen Heber-Katz, a professor at the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, foresees cures for injuries causing paralysis such as the one that afflicted Superman star Christopher Reeve. She says: ”I believe that the day is not far off when we will be able to prescribe drugs that cause severed (断裂的) spinal cords to heal, hearts to regenerate and lost limbs to regrow.“People will come to expect that injured or diseased organs are meant to be repaired from within, in much the same way that we fix an appliance or automobile: by replacing the damaged part with a manufacturer-certified new part.” She predicts that within 5 to 10 years fingers and toes will be regrown and limbs will start to be regrown a few years later. Repairs to the nervous system will start with optic nerves and, in time, the spinal cord. “Within 50years whole body replacement will be routine,” Prof. Heber-Katz adds.ObesitySydney Brenner, senior distinguished fellow of the Crick-Jacobs Center in California, won the 2002 Nobel Prize for Medicine and says that if there is a global disaster some humans will survive-and evolution will favour small people with bodies large enough to support the required amount of brain power. “Obesity,” he says, “will have been solved.”RobotsRodney Brooks, professor of robotics at MIT, says the problems of developing artificial intelligence for robots will be at least partly overcome. As a result, ”the possibilities for robots working with people will open up immensely”EnergyBill Joy, green technology expert in California, says: ”The most s ignificant breakthrough would be to have an inexhaustible source of safe, green energy that is substantially cheaper than any existing energy source.”Ideally, such a source would be safe in that it could not be made into weapons and would not make hazardous or toxic waste or carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas blamed for global warming.SocietyGeoffrey Miller, evolutionary psychologist at the University of New Mexico, says: “The US will follow the UK in realizing that religion is nor a prerequisite (前提) for ordinary human decency.“This,science will kill religion-not by reason challenging faith but by offering a more practical, universal and rewarding moral framework for human interaction.”He also predicts that “a b surdly wasteful” displays of wealth will become unfashionable while the importance of close-knit communities and families will become clearer.These there changer, he says, will help make us all ”brighter, wiser, happier and kinder”.1. What is john lngham‟s report about?A) A solution to the global energy crisisB) Extraordinary advances in technology.C) The latest developments of medical scienceD) Scientists‟ vision of the world in half a century2. According to Harvard professor Steven Pinker, predictions about the future_____.A) may invite troubleB) may not come trueC) will fool the publicD) do more harm than good3. Professor Bruce Lahn of the University of Chicago predicts that____.A) humans won‟t have to donate organs for transplantationB) more people will donate their organs for transplantationC) animal organs could be transplanted into human bodiesD) organ transplantation won‟t be as scary as it is today4. According to professor Richard Miller of the University of Michigan, people will____.A) life for as long as they wishB) be relieved from all sufferingsC) life to 100 and more with vitalityD) be able to live longer than whales5. Princeton professor Freeman Dyson thinks that____.A) scientists will find alien life similar to oursB) humans will be able to settle on MarsC) alien life will likely be discoveredD) life will start to evolve on Mars6. According to Princeton professor Richard Gott, by setting up a self-sufficient colony on Mars, Humans_____.A) might survive all catastrophes on earthB) might acquire ample natural resourcesC) will be able to travel to Mars freelyD) will move there to live a better life7. Ellen Heber-Katz, professor at the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, predicts that_____.A) human organs can be manufactured like appliancesB) people will be as strong and dynamic as supermenC) human nerves can be replaced by optic fibersD) lost fingers and limbs will be able to regrow8. Rodney Brooks says that it will be possible for robots to work with humans as a result or the development of___________________.9. The most significant breakthrough predicted by Bill joy will be an inexhaustible green energy source that can‟t be used to make_____________________________.10. According to Geoffrey Miller, science will offer a more practical, universal and rewarding moral framework in place of _________________.Part III Listening ComprehensionSection ADirections:In this section, you will hear 8 short conversations and 2 long conversations. At the end of each conversation, one or more questions will be asked about what was said. Both the conversation and the questions will be spoken only once. After each question there will be a pause. During the pause, you must read the four choices marked A), B), C), and D),and decide which is the best answer. Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.11. A) The man might be able to play in the World Cup.B) The man‟s football career seems to be at an end.C) The man was operated on a few weeks ago.D) The man is a fan of world-famous football players.12. A) Work out a plan to tighten his budgetB) Find out the opening hours of the cafeteria.C) Apply for a senior position in the restaurant.D) Solve his problem by doing a part-time job.13. A) A financial burden.C) A real nuisance.B) A good companion D) A well-trained pet.14. A) The errors will be corrected soon.C) The computing system is too complex.B) The woman was mistaken herself.D) He has called the woman several times.15. A) He needs help to retrieve his files.C) He needs some time to polish his paper.B) He has to type his paper once more.D) He will be away for a two-week conference.16. A) They might have to change their plan.B) He has got everything set for their trip.C) He has a heavier workload than the woman.D) They could stay in the mountains until June 8.17. A) They have wait a month to apply for a student loan.B) They can find the application forms in the brochure.C) They are not eligible for a student loan.D) They are not late for a loan application.18. A) New laws are yet to be made to reduce pollutant release.B) Pollution has attracted little attention from the public.C) The quality of air will surely change for the better.D) It‟ll take years to bring air pollution under control.Questions 19 to 22 are based on the conversation you have just heard.19. A) Enormous size of its stores.C) Its appealing surroundings.B) Numerous varieties of food.D) Its rich and colorful history.20. A) An ancient building.C) An Egyptian museum.B) A world of antiques.D) An Egyptian Memorial.21. A) Its power bill reaches $9 million a year.B) It sells thousands of light bulbs a day.C) It supplies power to a nearby town.D) It generates 70% of the electricity it uses.22. A) 11,500C) 250,000B) 30,000D) 300,000Questions 23 to 25 are based on the conversation you have just heard.23. A) Transferring to another department.C) Thinking about doing a different job.B) Studying accounting at a university D) Making preparation for her wedding.24. A) She has finally got a promotion and a pay raise.B) She has got a satisfactory job in another company.C) She could at last leave the accounting department.D) She managed to keep her position in the company.25. A) He and Andrea have proved to be a perfect match.B) He changed his mind about marriage unexpectedly.C) He declared that he would remain single all his life.D) He would marry Andrea even without meeting her.Section BDirections: In this section, you will hear 3 short passages. At the end of each passage, you will hear some question. Both the passage and the question will be spoken only once.. After you hear a question, you must choose the best answer from the four choices marked A), B), C) and D). Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre.Passage OneQuestions 26 to 29 are based on the passage you have just heard.26.A) They are motorcycles designated for water sports.B) They are speedy boats restricted in narrow waterways.C) They are becoming an efficient form of water transportation.D) They are getting more popular as a means or water recreation.27.A)Water scooter operators‟ lack of experience.B)Vacatio ners‟ disregard of water safety rules.C)Overloading of small boats and other craft.D)Carelessness of people boating along the shore.28.A) They scare whales to death.C) They discharge toxic emissions.B)They produce too much noise.D) They endanger lots of water life.29.A) Expand operating areas.C) Limit the use of waterscooters.B) Restrict operating hours.D) Enforce necessary regulations.Passage TwoQuestions 30 to 32 are based on the passage you have just heard.30. A) They are stable.C) They are strained.C) They are close.D) They are changing.31.A) They are fully occupied with their own business.B) Not many of them stay in the same place for long.C) Not many of them can win trust from their neighbors.D) They attach less importance to interpersonal relations.32.A) Count on each other for help.C) Keep a friendly distance.B) Give each other a cold shoulder.D) Build a fence between them.Passage ThreeQuestions 33 to 35 are based on the passage you have just heard.33. A) It may produce an increasing number of idle youngsters.B) It may affect the quality of higher education in America.C) It may cause many schools to go out of operation.D) It may lead to a lack of properly educated workers.34. A) It is less serious in cities than in rural areas.B) It affects both junior and senior high schools.C) It results from a worsening economic climate.D) It is a new challenge facing American educators.35. A) Allowing them to choose their favorite teachers.B) Creating a more relaxed learning environment.C) Rewarding excellent academic performance.D) Helping them to develop better study habits.Section CDirections: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea. When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill in the blank numbered from 36 to 43 with the exact words you have just heard. For blanks numbered from 44 to 46 you are required to fill in the missing information. For these blanks, you can either use the exact words you have just heard or write down the main points in your own word. Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should check what you have written.I'm interested in the criminal justice system of our country. It seems to me that something has to be done if we are to (36)______ as a country. I certainly don't know what the answers to our problems are. Things certainly get (37)______ in a hurry when you get into them. But I wonder if something couldn't be done to deal with some of these problems.One thing I'm concerned about is our practice of putting (38)______ in jail who haven't harmed anyone. Why not work out some system (39)_____ they can pay back the debts they owe society instead of (40)______ another debt by going to prison, and of course, coming under the (41)______ of hardened criminals? I'm also concerned about the short prison sentences people are (42)______ for serious crimes. Of course, one alternative to this is to (43)______ capital punishment, but I'm not sure I would be for that. I'm not sure it's right to take an eye for eye. (44)__________________________________. I also think we must do something about the insanity plea. In my opinion, anyone who takes another person‟s lifeintentionally is insane: however, (45)________________________________. It‟s sad, of course, that a person may have to spend the rest of his life, or (46)_______________________________________.Part IV Reading Comprehension (Reading in Depth)Section ADirections: In this section, there is a short passage with 5 questions or incomplete statements. Read the passage carefully. Then answer the questions or complete the statements in the fewest possible words. Please write our answers on Answer Sheet 2.Questions 47 to 51 are based on the following passage.If movie trailers (预告片) are supposed to cause a reaction, the preview for "United 93" more than succeeds. Featuring no famous actors, it begins with images of a beautiful morning and passengers boarding an airplane. It takes you a minute to realize what the movie's even about. That‟s when a plane hits the World Trade Center. the effect is visceral (震撼心灵的). When the trailer played before "Inside Man" last week at a Hollywood theater, audience members began calling out, "Too soon!" In New York City, the response was even more dramatic. The Loews theater in Manhattan took the rare step of pulling the trailer from its screens after several complaints."United 93" is the first feature film to deal explicitly with the events of September 11, 2001, and is certain to ignite an emotional debate. Is it too soon? Should the film have been made at all? More to the point, will anyone want to see it? Other 9/11 projects are on the way as the fifth anniversary of the attacks approaches, most notably Oliver Stone's " World Trade Center." but as the forerunner, "United 93"will take most of the heat, whether it deserves it or not.The real United 93 crashed in a Pennsylvania field after 40 passengers and crew fought back against the terrorists. Writer-director Paul Greengrass has gone to great lengths to berespectful in his depiction of what occurred, proceeding with the film only after securing the approval of every victim's family. "Was I surprised at the agreement? Yes. Very. Usually there‟re one or two families who're more reluctant," Greengrass writes in an e-mail. "I was surprised at the extraordinary way the United 93 families have welcomed us into their lives and shared their experiences with us." Carole O'Hare, a family member, says, "They were very open and honest with us, and they made us a part of this whole project." Universal, which is releasing the film, plans to donate 10% of its opening weekend gross to the Flight 93 National Memorial Fund. That hasn't stopped criticism that the studio is exploiting a national tragedy. O'Hare thinks that's unfair. "This story has to be told to honor the passengers and crew for what they did," she says. "But more than that, it raises awareness. Our ports aren't secure. Our borders aren't secure. Our airlines still aren't secure, and this is what happens when you're not secure. That‟s the message I want people to hear."47. The trailer for "United 93" succeeded in __________________ when it played in the theaters in Hollywood and New York City.48. The movie "United 93" is sure to give rise to ______________.49. What did writer-director Paul Greengrass obtain before he proceeded with the movie?50. Universal, which is releasing "United 93", has been criticized for _________________.51. Carole O‟Hare thinks that besides honoring the passengers and crew for what they did, the purpose of telling the story is to ___________________ about security.Section BDirections:There are 2 passages in this section. Each passage is followed by some questions or unfinished statements. For each of them there are four choices marked A), B), C)and D). You should decide on the best choice and mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line thought the centre.Passage OneQuestions 52 to 56 are based on the following passage.Imagine waking up and finding the value of your assets has been halved. No, you‟re not an investor in one of those hedge funds that failed completely. With the dollar slumping to a 26-year low against the pound, already-expensive London has become quite unaffordable. A coffee at Starbucks, just as unavoidable in England as it is in the United States, runs about $8.The once all-powerful dollar isn‟t doing a Titanic against just the pound. It is sitting at a record low against the euro and at a 30-year low against the Canadian dollar. Even the Argentine peso and Brazilian real are thriving against the dollar.The weak dollar is a source of humiliation, for a nation‟s self-esteem rests in part on the strength of its currency. It‟s also a potential economic problem, since a declining dollar makes imported food more expensive and exerts upward pressure on interest rates. And yet there are substantial sectors of the vast U.S. economy-from giant companies like Coca-Cola to mom-and-pop restaurant operators in Miami-for which the weak dollar is most excellent news.Many Europeans may view the U.S. as an arrogant superpower that has become hostile to foreigners. But nothing makes people think more warmly of the U.S. than a weak dollar. Through April, the total number of visitors from abroad was up 6.8 percent from last year. Should the trend continue, the number of tourists this year will finally top the 2000 peak? Many Europeans now apparently view the U.S. the way many Americans view Mexico-as a cheap place to vacation, shop and party, all while ignoring the fact that the poorer locals can‟t afford to join the merrymaking.The money tourists spend helps decrease our chronic trade deficit. So do exports, which thanks in part to the weak dollar, soared 11 percent between May 2006 and May 2007. For first five months of 2007, the trade deficit actually fell 7 percent from 2006.If you own shares in large American corporations, you‟re a winner in the weak-dollar gamble. Last week Coca-Cola‟s stick bubbled to a five-year high after it reported a fantastic quarter. Foreign sales accounted for 65 percent of C oke‟s beverage business. Other American companies profiting from this trend include McDonald‟s and IBM.American tourists, however, shouldn‟t expect any relief soon. The dollar lost strength the way many marriages break up- slowly, and then all at once. And currencies don‟t turn on a dime. So if you want to avoid the pain inflicted by the increasingly pathetic dollar, cancel that summer vacation to England and look to New England. There, the dollar is still treated with a little respect.52. Why do Americans feel humiliated?A) Their economy is plunging B) They can‟t afford trips to EuropeC) Their currency has slumped D) They have lost half of their assets.53.How does the current dollar affect the life of ordinary Americans?A) They have to cancel their vacations in New England.B) They find it unaffordable to dine in mom-and-pop restaurants.C) They have to spend more money when buying imported goods.C) They might lose their jobs due to potential economic problems.54 How do many Europeans feel about the U.S with the devalued dollar?A) They feel contemptuous of itB) They are sympathetic with it.C) They regard it as a superpower on the decline.D) They think of it as a good tourist destination.55 what is the author‟s advice to A mericans?A) They treat the dollar with a little respectB) They try to win in the weak-dollar gambleC) They vacation at home rather than abroadD) They treasure their marriages all the more.56 What does the author imply by saying “currencies don‟t turn on a dime” (Line 2,Para7)?A) The dollar‟s value will not increase in the short term.B) The value of a dollar will not be reduced to a dimeC) The dollar‟s value will drop, but within a small margin.D) Few Americans will change dollars into other currencies.Passage TwoQuestions 57 to 61 are based on the following passage.In the college-admissions wars, we parents are the true fights. We are pushing our kids to get good grades, take SAT preparatory courses and build resumes so they can get into the college of our first choice. I‟ve twice been to the wars, and as I survey the battlefield, something different is happening. We see our kids‟ college background as e prize demonstrating how well we‟ve raised them. But we can‟t acknowledge that our obses sion(痴迷) is more about us than them. So we‟ve contrived various justifications that turn out to be half-truths, prejudices or myths. It actually doesn‟t matter much whether Aaron and Nicole go to Stanford.We have a full-blown prestige panic; we worry that there won‟t be enough prizes to go around. Fearful parents urge their children to apply to more schools than ever. Underlying the hysteria (歇斯底里) is the belief that scarce elite degrees must be highly valuable. Their graduates must enjoy more success because they get a better education and develop better contacts. All that is plausible——and mostly wrong. We haven‟t found any convincing evidence that selectivity or prestige matters. Selective schools don‟t systematically employ better instructional approaches than less selective schools. On two measures——professors‟ feedback and the number of essay exams——selective schools do slightly worse.By some studies, selective schools do enhance their graduates‟ lifetime earnings. The gain is reckoned at 2-4% for every 100-poinnt increase in a school‟s average SAT scores. But even this advantage is probably a statistical fluke(偶然). A well-known study examined students who got into highly selective schools and then went elsewhere. They earned just as much as graduates from higher-status schools.Kids count more than their colleges. Getting into Yale may signify intellgence, talent and a mbition. But it‟s not the only indicator and, paradoxically, its significance is declining. The reason: so many similar people go elsewhere. Getting into college is not life only competiton. Old-boy networks are breaking down. Princeton economist Alan Krueger studied admissions to one top Ph.D. program. High scores on the GRE helped explain who got in; degrees of prestigious un iversities didn‟t.So, parents, lighten up. The stakes have been vastly exaggerated. Up to a point, we can rationalize our pushiness. America is a competitive society; our kids need to adjust to that. But too much pushiness can be destructive. The very ambition we impose on our children may get some into Harvard but may also set them up for disappointment.one study found that, other things being equal, graduates of highly selective schools experienced more job dissatisfaction. They may have been so conditioned to being on top that anything less disappoints.57. Why dose the author say that parents are the true fighters in the college-admissions wars?A) They have the final say in which university their children are to attend.B) They know best which universities are most suitable for their children.C) They have to carry out intensive surveys of colleges before children make an application.D) They care more about which college their children go to than the children themselves.58. Why do parents urge their children to apply to more school than ever?。