2020年12月英语四级翻译练习试题及解析:中国铁路
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2020年12月英语四级真题及答案第二套(网络整理版)2020年12月英语四级真题及答案第二套2020年12月的英语四级考试已经结束,考生们迫不及待地想要知道真题及答案。
以下是网络整理版的2020年12月英语四级真题及答案第二套,希望能为大家提供参考。
听力部分(略)阅读部分(略)第一节翻译1. 答案:In the past few years, an increasing number of college students have been involved in part-time jobs. This phenomenon has aroused wide public concern.2. 答案:The rapid development of information technology has brought about many changes in people's lifestyles and work patterns. More and more people choose to work from home.3. 答案:It is universally acknowledged that environmental protection is crucial to our existence. As a result, many countries have implemented measures to reduce pollution and promote sustainable development.4. 答案:The government has introduced a series of policies to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among young people. This has resulted in a significant increase in the number of startups in recent years.第二节阅读理解5. 答案:C. The growing popularity of paid paternity leave.6. 答案:A. The importance of early intervention in language development.7. 答案:D. The need for parents to help their children develop good study habits.8. 答案:B. By reducing job positions and cutting costs.9. 答案:C. The role of sleep in memory consolidation.10. 答案:A. Using mobile devices to deliver personalized learning experiences.11. 答案:D. The potential negative effects of excessive exposure to artificial lighting.12. 答案:A. People feel more relaxed when they are surrounded by plants.第三节完形填空13. 答案:B. citizens14. 答案:A. committed15. 答案:C. gain16. 答案:B. diverse17. 答案:A. difference18. 答案:C. supplement19. 答案:D. creating20. 答案:B. addressed21. 答案:D. accomplish22. 答案:A. measures23. 答案:C. potential24. 答案:A. enhance25. 答案:B. access26. 答案:D. correspondingly27. 答案:C. available28. 答案:B. opportunity29. 答案:A. simple30. 答案:C. achieve写作部分第一节作文近年来,网购在我国迅速发展,改变了人们的消费方式。
【最新整理,下载后即可编辑】2020年12月英语四级翻译真题及答案不知不觉,又一次四级考试结束了,对于这一次英语四级翻译引发热议,大家怎么看呢?下面是小编给大家带来的关于2020年12月英语四级翻译真题及答案,以供大家参考,我们共同阅读吧!英语四级翻译真题及答案四级翻译第一套:春节前夕吃团圆饭是中国人的传统。
团圆饭是一年中最重要的晚餐,也是家庭团聚的最佳时机,家人生活在不同地方的家庭尤其如此。
团圆饭上的菜肴丰富多样,其中有些菜肴有特殊含义。
例如,鱼是不可缺少的一道菜,因为汉语中的“鱼”字和“余”字听上一样。
在中国的许多地方,饺子也是一道重要的佳肴,因为饺子象征着财富和好运。
It'sa tradition for Chinese to have the family reunion mealon the SpringFestival Eve, which is not only the mostimportant dinner in a year but also thebest opportunityfor family reunion ,esp.for those families whose membersLiveindifferent places .The family reunion dinner consistsof a great variety ofdishes , some of which carry specialmeanings .Forexample,fishisindispensableas“fish”soundslike“surplus”or “abundant”in Chinese .In manyareas of China ,dumpling is also an important dish for itsymbolizes wealth and fortune .四级翻译第二套:鱼是春节前夕餐桌上不可或缺的一道菜,因为汉语中“鱼”字的发音与“余”字的发音相同。
2020 年12 月四级真题及答案(全3 套)四级写作第一套Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write an essay on the change of communication. You should write at least 120 words but no more than 180 words.With the development of science and technology, we have witnessed the various huge changes of our daily life, among which, the change of communication is striking. However, people’s view on it never come to consensus. Concerning it, both communication online and offline have their merits.For one thing, no one denies that communication online brings great convenience to us, especially to those who have friends or relatives in remote areas. Because the change makes it possible for them to have frequent chat. And, the way we contact with others is diverse. Video calls and voice message can both meet modern people’s satisfaction. For another, the change is also making us disconnected. Due to the availability, people are gradually reluctant to have face-to-face communication with surrounding people, which is isolating us from the people we love.Given the factors above, the change of communication, we have to admit, is more like a double-edged sword. Neither do we discard it nor completely rely on it. Instead, we should make reasonable use of it so as to maximize its benefits.随着科学技术的发展,我们见证了我们日常生活中的各种巨大变化,其中沟通方式的变化是引人注目的。
The Changes in the Way of Transportation【1】China has witnessed dramatic changes in the way of transportation in the recent decades,which range from the constantly increasing number of private cars to the rapidly growing convenience of public transportation.【2】And these changes have definitely had a great impact on our life,【3】Apparently, the advance of transportation “shortens” the distance, improves our efficiency and leads to great convenience in our life,【4】For example,a wide range of means of public transportation, such as the rail and airplane, make it possible for us to take a trip wherever and whenever we like.【5】A private car can save us much time and trouble in waiting for crowded buses,especially when we are in a hurry. However, what impresses me most in all developments is the wide popularity of【6】shared bicycles, which are not only environment-friendly and convenient in a short distance, but also provide chances for modern people to take some exercise in their fast-paced life.【7】In a nutshell, we are enjoying the convenience brought by changes in the way of transportation. Meanwhile, we need to show our gratitude to the new technologies and to those who propel them to make our life more beautiful.作文点评【1】引出话题:近几十年来中国的交通方式发生了巨大变化。
2020年12月英语四级真题及答案第二套(网络整理版)2020年12月英语四级真题及答案第二套(网络整理版)作参考一、四级听力部分:听力原文:1. A) A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.2. C) It could poses a threat to other marine species.3. B) About half of its city center will be closed to ears.4. A) The rising air pollution in Paris5. B) His houses has burnt down in a fire.6. D) Sell the pearl he had kept for years.7. C) His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.8. A) It boasts a farily long history.9. C) It is a family business.10. D) Loss of competitive edge.11. A) Conducting a financial analysis for it.12. D) She is really impressed by the man's house.13. B) From home design magazine.14. C) The cost was affordable.15. B) She wants him to share his renovation experiences with her.16. D) Removing objects from patients' noses and ears.17. C) Five to nine-year-olds were the most likely to put things in their ears.18. D) They are curious about these body parts.19. B) It gave her a used bicycle.20. A) Expanding bike-riding lessons.21. B) It is a charity organization.22. D) How animals deal with lack of gravity.23. A) They were not used to the low-gravity environment.24. C) They already felt at home in the new environment.25. B) They behaved as if they were on Earth.纯视听一致 40% 10道题视听一致+同义替换 48% 12道题纯同义替换 12% 3道题(有一道是全文理解)Passage 1主题:孩子往耳朵和鼻子里塞东西,去医院取出16. D) Removing objects from patients' noses and ears.听力原文:Removing foreign objects from ears and nosescosts England almost 3 million pounds a year, a study suggests.考点:视听一致17. C) Five to nine-year-olds were the most likely to put things in their ears.听力原文:five to nine-year-olds come to the hospital with something in their ears the most.考点:视听一致18. D) They are curious about these body parts.听力原文:考点:视听一致+同义替换According to the study, the occurrence of foreign objects in children is generally attributed to curiosity. Children have an impulse to explore their noses and ears.Passage 2主题:二手自行车做慈善,送给有需要的人,教他们骑19. B) It gave her a used bicycle.听力原文:At this time, rebicycle got involved and gave Layla a second-hand bicycle.考点:视听一致+同义替换20. A) Expanding bike-riding lessons.听力原文:And there's now expanding bike riding lessonsas demand source. 考点:视听一致21. B) It is a charity organization.听力原文:无考点:全文理解Passage 3主题:老鼠在低重力环境下的试验22. D) How animals deal with lack of gravity.听力原文:T o that end, they have been studying how other species deal with low gravity, specifically focusing on mice.考点:视听一致+同义替换23. A) They were not used to the low-gravity environment.听力原文:As you'll notice in the video, the mice definitely seemuncomfortable at the beginning of the experiment.考点:同义替换24. C) They already felt at home in the new environment.听力原文:Several of the mice are observed running around the cage walls.考点:同义替换25. B) They behaved as if they were on Earth.The scientist wanted to see whether the mice would continue doing the same kinds of activities they were observed doing on earth. The study showed that the mice kept much of the routines intact, including cleaning themselves and eating when hungry.考点:视听一致+同义替换听力原文:Passage 1Removing foreign objects from ears and noses costs England almost 3 million pounds a year, a study suggests. Children were responsible for the vast majority of cases. 95% of objects removed from noses and 85% from ears. Every year, an averageof 1,218 nose and 2,479 ear removals took place between 2010 and 2016. According to England's hospital episodes statistics, children aged one to four, were the most likely to need help from doctors for a foreign object in their nose, five to nine-year-olds come to the hospital with something in their ears the most. Jewelry items accounted for up to 40% of cases in both the ears and noses of children, paper and plastic toys, where the items removed next most from noses, cotton beds and pencils were also found in ears. According to the study, the occurrence of foreign objects in children is generally attributed to curiosity. Children have an impulse toexplore their noses and ears. This results in the accidental entry of forei gn objects. Any ear, nose and throat surgeon has many weird stories about wonderful objects found in the noses and ears of children and adults. Batteries can pose a particular danger. In all cases, prevention is better than cure. This is why many toys contain warnings about small parts. Recognizing problems early and seeking medical attention is important.Question 16 to 18, are based on the passage you've just heard .16. What does England spend an annual 3 million pounds on?17. What do we learn from England's hospital episodes statistics?18. What is generally believed to account for children putting things in their ears or noses?Passage 2Today, I would like to talk to you about my charity rebicycle. But before that, let me introduce someone. This is Layla Rahimi. She was so scared when she first moved to New Zealand, that she struggled to leave the house and would spend days workingup the courage to walk to the supermarket for basic supplies.After a few months of being quite down and unhappy, she was invited to join a local bike club. At this time, rebicycle got involved and gave Layla a second-hand bicycle. Within weeks, her depression had begun to ease as she cycled. The bicycle totally changed her life, giving her hope and a true feeling of freedom.To date, rebicycle has donated more than 200 bikes to those in need. And there's now expanding bike riding lessons as demand source. With a bike, newcomers here can travel farther, but for almost no cost. The three hours a day, they used to spend walking to and from English language lessons has been reduced to just one hour.Our bike riding lessons are so successful that we are urgently looking for more volunteers, learning to ride a bike is almost always more difficult for an adult, and this can take days and weeks rather than hours. So if any of you have some free time during the weekend, please come join us at re bicycle and make a difference in someone's life.Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage. You have just heard 19. What did rebicycle do to help Layla Rahimi?20. What is Rebicycle doing to help those in need?21. What do we learn from the passage about rebicycle?Passage 3Thanks to the international space station, we know quite a bit about the effects of low gravity on the human body, but NASA scientists want to learn more. To that end, they have been studying how other species deal with low gravity, specifically focusing on mice. The results are both interesting and humorous. The scientists first sent some mice and especially designed cage to the international space station. The cage allowed them tostudy the behavior of the mice remotely from earth via video. As you'll notice in the video, the mice definitely seem uncomfortable at the beginning of the experiment. They move around clumsily, drifting within the small confines of the cage, and do their best to figure out which way is up.But without success, however, it's not long before the mice begin to catch on. They adapt remarkably well to their new environment and even use the lack of gravity to their advantage as they push themselves around the cage. That's when things really get wild. The 11th day of the experiment shows the mice are not just dealing with the gravity change, but actually seem to be enjoying it. Several of the mice are observed running around the cage walls. The scientist wanted to see whether the mice would continue doing the same kinds of activities they were observed doing on earth. The study showed thatthe mice kept much of the routines intact, including cleaning themselves and eating when hungry.22 to 25 are based on the paths that you have just heard question.22. What do NASA scientists want to learn about?23. What does the passage say about the mice at the beginning of the experiment?24. What was observed about the mice on the 11th day of the experiment?25. What did the scientists find about the mice from the experiment?二、四级选词填空部分:When my son completes a task, I can't hlep but praise him.26. B. constant27. G. negative28. K. repeatedly29. L. rewarded30. C disappointing31 .H. outcome32.1. pattern33. D. distinguish34. N. simply35.0. undertaken三、四级信息匹配部分:The History of the Lunch Box36. [F] City kids,on the other hand,went home for lunch and came back.37. [j] The company sold 600, 000 units the first year.38. [〇] The introduction of backpacks changed the lunch box scene abit^he adds.39. [C] Lunch boxes have been connecting kids to cartoons and TV shows and super-heroes for decades.40. [H] And then everything changed in the year of 1950.41 .[L] The new trend was also a great example of planned obsolescence,that is,to design a product so that it will soon become unfashionable or impossible to use and will need replacing.42. [D] Let's start back at the beginning of the 20th century-the beginning of the lunch box story,really.43. [A] It was made of shiny,bright pink plastic with a Little Mermaid sticker on the front,and I carried it with me nearly every single day.44. [M] The metal lunch box craze Lasted until the mid-1980s,when plastic took over.45. [I] But these containers were really /doc/1818387206.html,sting years on end.四、四级仔细阅读部分:P146 A When they don* t have the chance to do what they want47 D Harmful conduct48 B Many volunteers choose to hurt themselves rather than endure boredom49 C It may promote creative thinking.50 D Allow oneself some time to be bored.P251 .B Forests are fast shrinking in many developing countries.52. C Those that used to have the lowest forest coverage.53. A The government’ s advocacy54. C Their capability of improving air quality55. D Developed and developing countries are moving in opposite directions五、四级作文部分:WritingDirections:For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write on the topic Changes in the Way of Transportation.You should write at least 120 words but no more than 180 words.范文:Changes in the way of transportationAs the internet is developing so rapidly, the way of transportation keeps changing surprisingly. New applications on transportation emerge abundantly, contributing to the fact that people* s lifestyle has been changed as well.The changes in the way of transportation can be listed as follows. First of all, with the development of technology, the priceof transportation is much cheaper than before. Moreover, compared with traditional ways of buying tickets, transportation applications and websites give passengers the opportunity to book tickets online without going outside to particular ticket offices. Besides, highspeed railways gradually replace the oldfashioned green trains, which can tremendously improve travelers’ comfort during the journey and shorten the time spent on the way.From my perspective, the changes in the way of transportation mainly lie in the good respects. As one of the fortunate passengers who live in the age of internet and can get access to online service of transportation, I can* t help exclaiming: it is the best of times.六、四级翻译部分:春节前夕吃团圆饭是中国人的传统。
2020年12月英语四级考试翻译真题解析今年在长沙举办了一年一度的外国人汉语演讲比赛。
这项比赛证明是促动中国和世界其他地区文化交流的好方法。
它为世界各地的年轻人提供了更好地了解中国的机会。
来自87个国家共计126位选手聚集在湖南省省会参加了从7月6日到8月5日实行的半决赛和决赛。
比赛并不是的活动。
选手们还有机会参观了中国其他地区的景点和历史名胜。
解析:[今年][在长沙]举办了(一年一度的)[外国人]汉语演讲比赛。
此句和上篇考点类似,难点在于句子主干的寻找,“演讲比赛”和“举办”应转化为被动关系,此外,“了”字表明活动业已完成,处理为完成时。
The annual Mandarin Speech Contest for Foreigners has been held in Changsha this year.这项比赛证明是(促动中国和世界其他地区文化交流的)好方法。
This contest proves to be a good way to promote the cultural communication between China and other regions of the world.它[为世界各地的年轻人]提供了[更好地了解中国的]机会。
It provides the youths all over the world with an opportunity to know China better.另外,我们发现,前三句话主语一致,基础较好的同学可考虑将三句话合并在一起:The annual Mandarin Speech Contest has been held in Changsha this year, which proves to be ... and which provides ....来自87个国家共计126位选手聚集在湖南省省会参加了从7月6日到8月5日实行的半决赛和决赛。
12月英语四级翻译真题及答案推荐文章12月第2套英语四级听力真题及答案热度: 12月英语四级听力真题及答案热度: 12月英语四级考试真题试卷第1套答案热度: 12月英语四级考试第2套真题试卷及答案热度:12月英语四级考试真题试卷及答案热度:英语四级考试中翻译是拉分差距较大的题型,如何让自己的翻译更出彩?除了考前多练笔,根据模板进行仿写也是非常实用的方法,下面小编就跟大家聊聊关于12月英语四级翻译真题及答案吧,希望能帮助到大家。
2019年12月英语四级翻译真题中国家庭十分重视孩子的教育。
许多父母认为应该努力工作,确保孩子受到良好教育。
他们不仅非常情愿为孩子的教育投资,而且花很多时间督促他们学习。
多数家长希望孩子能上名牌大学。
由于改革开放,越来越多的家长能送孩子到国外学习或参与国际交流项目,以拓宽其视野。
通过这些努力,他们期望孩子健康成长,为国家的发展和繁荣作出贡献。
2019年12月英语四级翻译答案Chinese families attach great importance to theirchildren's education. Many parents hold that theyshould work hard to ensure their children'saccess to good education. Not only are theyperfectly willing to invest in their children'seducation, but they also spend much time urgingthem to study. Most parents expect their children to get admitted to elite universities. Owing to China s reform and opening-up, an increasing number of parents can sendtheir children to study abroad or participate in international exchange programs tobroaden their horizons. Through these efforts, they expect their children grow up strongand healthy and make a contribution to the nation'sdevelopment and prosperity.英语四级万能句子导语:大学英语四级考试,即CET-4,College English Test Band 4的缩写,是由国家教育部高等教育司主持的全国性教学考试。
2020年12月英语四级考试真题含答案写作(3套)第一套:changes in educationRecently, the topic of the change in the way of education has been brought into focus. According to a recent survey conducted by China Daily, a high proportion of 56.6 percent of students admitted that they had attended online courses before.There is no denying that E-learning enjoys many merits. For instance, it has made it possible for students to study whenever and wherever they want. For example, an undergraduate can even listen to lectures in his pajamas in the dormitory. However, wonderful as it is, it also brings some problems. Without a teacher’s supervision, a young student can easily be distracted. He may constantly remove his eyes from the course and focus on the tempting websites instead.In brief, taking into account all of these factors, we may reach the conclusion that the changes in education brought great convenience to us. Only by making reasonable use of them can we benefit considerably.第二套:changes in transportationRecently, the topic of the changes in the way of transportation has been brought into focus. According to a recent survey conducted by China Daily, a high proportion of 56.6 percent of students admitted that .There is no denying that new kind of transportation enjoys many advantages. For example, transportation apps like Didi have brought consumers great convenience in travelling, because they have made it possible for people to go around without the trouble of waiting in a line for a bus or a taxi. However, they also bring their own problems. For instance, they pose a threat to the passengers ‘safety.Many ways can contribute to improving the safety of the new transportation. For one thing, what the consumers need to do is to equip themselves with higher awareness of security. This method enables them to avoid any potential dangers. For another, the government should impose more rigid safety standards on new way of transportation to add to the safety of people. 第三套:changes in communicationRecently, the topic of the changes in the way of communication has been brought into focus. According to a recent survey conducted by CCTV, a high proportion of 84.7 percent of people admit that they frequently use social networking websites such as Wechat and Weibo to communicate.There is no denying that those new kinds of communication enjoy many advantages. For example, they enable users to contact with old friends as well as make new friends. However, they also bring their own problems. For one thing, using them increases the risk of leaking personal information. For another, some young people who are addicted to social networking websites isolate themselves in their virtual world and even have difficulty in communicating with people in the real world.In brief, taking into account all of these factors, we may reach the conclusion that the changes in communication pose both opportunities and challenges to our modern life. Only bymaking reasonable use of them can we benefit considerably.听力(2套)第一套:1. D) A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.2. B) It could pose a threat to other marine species.3. C) About half of its city center will be closed to cars .4. D) The rising air pollution in Paris .5. A) His house was burnt down in a fire.6. C) Sell the pearl he had kept for years.7. B) His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.8. A) It boasts a fairly long history.9. D) It is a family business.10. B) Loss the competitive edge.11. D) Conducting a financial analysis for it.12. B) She is really impressed by the man’s house.13. C) From home design magazines.14. A)The cost was affordable.15. D) She wants him to share his renovation experience with her.16. C) Removing objects from patients' noses and ears.17. B) Five- to nine-year-olds are the most likely to put things in their ears.18. D) They are curious about these body parts.19. A) It gave her a used bicycle.20. A) Expanding bike-riding lessons.21. D) It is a charity organization.22. A) How animals deal with lack of gravity.23. C) They were not used to the low-gravity environment.24. B) They already felt at home in the new environment.25. C) They behaved as if they were on Earth.第二套:1. D) He did an unusual good deed.2. C) Give some money to the waiter.3. A) Whether or not to move to the state's mainland.4. B) It costs too much money.5. A) To investigate whether people are grateful for help.6. C) They held doors open for people at various places.7. B) Most people express gratitude for help.8. C) To enquire about solar panel installations.9. D) He has a large family.10. B) The cost of a solar panel installation.11. D) About five years.12. A)At a travel agency.13. D)She wanted to spend more time with her family .14. D) Two weeks .15. A) Choosing some activities herself16. D) Pay a green tax upon arrival.17. A) It has not been doing a good job in recycling.18.B) To ban single-use plastic bags and straws on bali island.19. D) Its population is now showing signs of increase.20. C) Commercial hunting.21. D) To seek breeding grounds.22. C) They consume less milk these days.23. A) It is not as healthy as once thought.24. C) They lack the necessary proteins to digest it.25. B) It provides some necessary nutrients.阅读(3套)第一套:选词填空Trust is fundamental to life...26-30 CMGAO 31-35 JKFIH26. C) essential27. M) suspicion28. G) miserable29. A) constantly30. O) watching31. J) records32. K) removed33. F) load34. I) properly35. H) pressure长篇阅读The Place Where the Poor Once Thrived36-40 HDKEG 41-45 IECHF36. According to some people living in San Jose, it has become much harder for the poor to get ahead due to the increased inequality.H定位句:Some San Jose residents gay that as inequality has grown in recent years, upward mobility has become much more difficult to achieve.37. In American history, immigrants used to have a good chance to move upward in society.D定位句:This is a city of immigrants——38 percent of the city's population today is foreign-born ——and immigrants and their children have historically experienced significant upward mobility in America.38. If the problems of San Jose can't be solved, one of America's fundamental beliefs about itself can be shaken.K定位句:The idea that those at the bottom can rise to the top is central to America's ideas about itself. That such mobility has become more difficult in San Jose raises questions about the endurance of that foundational belief.39. San Jose was among the best cities in America for poor kids to move up the social ladder.E定位句:San Jose had social mobility comparable to Denmark's and Canada's and higher than other progressive cities such as Boston and Minneapolis.40. Whether poor kids in San Jose today still have the chance to move upward is questionable.G定位句:Whether the city still allows for upward mobility of poor kids today, though, is up for debate.41. San Jose's officials are resolved to give poor kids access to the resources necessary for success in life.I定位句:Leaders in San Jose are determined to make sure that the city regains its status as a place where even poor kids can access the resources to succeed.42. San Jose appears to manifest some of the best features of America.E定位句:Indeed, the streets of San Jose seem, in some ways, to embody the best of America. 43. As far as social mobility is concerned, San Jose beat many other progressive cities in America. C定位句:San Jose had social mobility comparable to Denmark's and Canada's and higher than other progressive cities such as Boston and Minneapolis.44. Due to some changes like increases in housing prices in San Jose, the prospects for its poor people have dimmed.H定位句:Given this, the future for the region's poor doesn't look nearly as bright as it once did. 45. Researchers do not have a clear idea why poor children in San Jose achieved such great success several decades ago.F定位句:But researchers aren't sure exactly why poor kids in San Jowe did so well.仔细阅读Passage One—Three children in every classroom have a diagnosable mental health conditions.46-50 DABCD46. What are teachers complaining about?D) They lack the necessary resources to address pupils’ mental problems.47. What do we learn from the passage about community health services in Britain?A) They have deteriorated due to budget cuts.48. Where does the author suggest mental health services be placed?B) At school.49. What do we learn from the recent studies?C) Students are more comfortable seeking counseling in school.50. What does the author mean by a cultural shift (Line 2-3, Para. 6)?D) A change in the conception of what schools are?Passage Two—Picture this: You’re at a movie theater food stand...51-55 ADBCB51. Why does the author ask us to imagine buying food in the movie theater?A) To illustrate people’s peculiar shopping behavior.52. Why is the medium soda priced the way it is?D) To make customers believe they are getting a bargain.53. What do we learn from Dan Ariely’s experiment?B) The Economist’s promotional strategy works.54. For what purpose is “the bad option” (Line 7, Para. 3) added?C) To trap customers into buying the more pricey item.55. How do we assess the value of a commodity, according to the passage?B) By comparing it with other choices.第二套:选词填空开头:When my son completes a task, I can't help but praise him...26-30 BGKLC 31-35 HIDNO26. B) constant27. G) negative28. K) repeatedly29. L) rewarded30. C) disappointing31. H) outcome32. I) pattern33. D) distinguish34. N) simply35. O) undertaken长篇阅读开头:Poverty is a story about us, not them36-40 EHMJD 41-45 FNICL36. One legislative staffer assumed that a woman of color who advocated affordable childcare must be a single mother.答案:E)That moment, says Mothering Justice director Danielle Atkinson ...37. People from different races, genders, and regions all suffer...答案:H) But the fact that 4 in 10 Americans can’t come up38. According to a survey, while the majority believe...答案:M) According to the General Social Survey...39. A research group has found that Americans ...答案:J) The FrameWorks Institute, a research group...40. Under the old system in America, a mother was ...答案:D) If these are the central characters of our story41. It was found that nearly 50% of Americans are poor or receive low pay...答案:F) How many of us are poor in the U.S.?42. Americans usually overestimate the number of blacks receiving welfare benefit.答案:N) “Poverty has been interchangeable with people of color...43. It is impossible for Americans to lift themselves out of poverty entirely on their own.答案:I) Negative images remain of who is living in poverty ...44. Nowadays, it seems none of us can get away from income inequality.答案:C) Today’s faces of income inequality and lack of opportunity ...45. Assumptions about poor people become even more negative when they live on welfare.答案:L) Those external factors include the difficulties ...仔细阅读Passage One—Boredom has, paradoxically, become quite interesting to academics lately. 46-50 ADBCD46. A)When they don’t have the chance to do what they want.47. D) Harmful conduct.48. B) Many volunteers choose to hurt themselves rather than endure boredom.49. C) It may promote creative thinking.50. D) Allow oneself some time to be bored.Passage Two—Forests in countries like Brazil and the Congo get a lot of attention51-55 BCACD51. B) Forests are fast shrinking in many developing countries.52. C) Those that used to have the lowest forest coverage.53. A) The government’s advocacy.54. C) Their capability of improving air quality.55.D) Developed and developing countries are moving in opposite directions.第三套:选词填空开头:The things people make, and the way...26-30 KGMLO 31-35 FHADN26. K) matters27. G) flexible28. M) promised29. L) moving30. O) spared31. F) feature32. H) inevitably33. A) automation34. D) fantastic35. N) shape长篇阅读The history of the Lunch Box36-40 FJOCH41-45 LDAMI仔细阅读Passage One开头:A growing number of U.S. bike riders...46-50 CBDAD46. C) They did not become popular until the emergence of improved batteries.47. B) The falling prices of e-bike batteries.48. D) It will make a difference in people’s daily lives.49. A) Retailers’ refusal to deal in e-bikes.50. D) The younger generation’s pursuit of comfortable riding.Passage Two开头:The terms “global warming”and "climate change"...51-55 ACDBC51. A) To sway public opinion of the impact of human activities on Earth.52. C) it covers more phenomena53. D) Deliberate choice of words.54. B) For greater precision.55. C) Human activities have serious effects on Earth.翻译(3套)第一套:生活在中国不同地区的人们饮食多种多样。
2020年12月四级翻译真题及答案2020年12月四级翻译真题及答案翻译一Part IV TranslationDirections : For this part,you are allowed 30 minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English.You shouldwrite your answer on Answer Sheet 2很多人喜欢中餐。
在中国,烹饪不但被视为一种技能,而且也被视为一种艺术。
精心准备的中餐既可口又好看。
烹饪技艺和配料在中国各地差别很大。
但好的烹饪都有一个共同点,总是要考虑到颜色、味道、口感和营养(nutrition)。
因为食物对健康至关重要,好的厨师总是努力在谷物、肉类和蔬菜之间取得平衡,所以中餐既味美又健康。
注意:此部分试题请在答题卡2上作答。
翻译二Part IV TranslationDirections : For this part,you are allowed 30 minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English.You shouldwrite your answer on Answer Sheet 2"你要茶还是咖啡?"是用餐人常被问到的问题,很多西方人会选咖啡,而中国人则会选茶,相传,中国的一位帝王于五千年前发现了茶,并用来治病,在明清(the qing dynasties)期间,茶馆遍布全国,饮茶在六世纪传到日本,但直到18世纪才传到欧美,如今,茶是世界上最流行的饮料(beverage)之一,茶是中国的瑰宝。
也是中国传统和文化的重要组成部分。
翻译三Part IV TranslationDirections : For this part,you are allowed 30 minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English.You shouldwrite your answer on Answer Sheet 2中国结最初是由手工艺人发明的,经过数百年持续的改进,已经成为一种优雅多彩的艺术和工艺。
2020年12月大学英语四级考试真题(第2卷)PartⅠWriting(30minutes)Directions:For this part,you are allowed30minutes to write a composition on the topic“Changes in the way of Transportation”.You should write at least120 words but no more than180words.With the social and economic development,our means of transportation have changed a lot over the last few decades,which has brought much convenience to our life.In the1970s and1980s,bicycles were the primary means of public transportation. Families that owned a bicycle were thought to be in relatively good economic conditions.Because of the implementation of the reform and opening policy,the economy and people’s living standards were improved a lot and travelling by private cars became more and more common in1990s and2000s.And thanks to the information technology,we can now enjoy bike-sharing service and online ride-hailing service which help to make our journey more economical and flexible.We have enough reason to believe that our way of transportation could be more and more economically friendly and intelligent.PartⅡListening Comprehension(25minutes)Section ADirections:In this section,you will hear three news reports.At the end of each new report,you will hear two or three questions.Both the news report 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 Sheet1with a single line through the centre.Questions1and2are based on the news report you have just heard.1.A)A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.B)Invasive species are driving away certain native species.C)The Mediterranean is a natural habitat of Devil Firefish.D)Many people have been attacked by Devil Firefish.2.A)It could add to greenhouse emissions.B)It could disrupt the food chains there.C)It could pose a threat to other marine species.D)It could badly pollute the surrounding waters.1—2题答案:1.A 2.CQuestions3and4are based on the news report you have just heard.3.A)cars will not be allowed to enter the city.B)About half of its city center will be closed to cars.C)Buses will be the only vehicles allowed on its streets.D)Pedestrianswillhavefreeaccesstothecity.4.A)The rising air pollutionin Paris.B)The worsening global warming.C The ever-growing cost of petrol.D)The unbearable traffic noise.3—4题答案:3.B 4.AQuestions5to7are based on the news report you have just heard.5.A)Many of his possessions were stolen.B)His house was burnt down in a fire.C)His fishing boat got wrecked on a rock.D)His good luck charm sank into the sea.6.A)Change his fishing locations.B)Find a job in a travel agency.C)Spend a few nights on a small islandD)Sell the pearl he had kept for years7.A)A New Year museumB)The largest pearl in the world weighsC)His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.D)His pearl could be displayed in a museum.5—7题答案:5.B 6.D7.CSection BDirections:In this section,you will hear two long conversations.At the end of each conversation,you will hear four 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).Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet1with a single line through the centre.Questions8to11are based on the conversation you have just heard.8.A)It boasts a fairly long history.B)It produces construction materials.C)It has75offices around the world.D)It has over50business partners.9.A)It has about50employees.B)It was started by his father.C)It has a family business.D)It is over100years old.10.A)Shortage of raw material supply.B)Legal disputes in many countries.C)Outdated product design.D)Loss of competitive edge.11.A)Conducting a financial analysis for it.B)Providing training for its staff members.C)Seeking new ways to increase is exports.D)Introducing innovative marketing strategies.8—11题答案:8.A9.C10.D11.AQuestions12to15are based on the conversation you have just heard.12.A)She is a real expert at house decorations.B)She is well informed about the design business.C)She is attracted by the color of the sitting room.D)She is really impressed by the man’s house.13.A)From his younger brother Greg.B)From home design magazines.C)From a construction businessman.D)From a professional interior designer.14.A)The effort was worthwhile.B)The style was fashionable.C)The cost was affordable.D)The eft was unexpected.15.A)She’d like him to talk with Jonathan about a new project.B)She wants him to share his renovation experience with herC)She wants to discuss the house decoration budget with him.D)She’d like to show him around her newly-renovated house.12—15题答案:12.D13.B14.C15.BSectionCDirections:In this section,you will hear three passages.At the end of each passage,you will hear three or four 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 your choices marked A),B),C)and D).Then mark he corresponding letter on Answer Sheet1with a single line through the centre.Questions16to18are based on the passage you have just heard.16.A)Providing routine care for small children.B)Paying hospital bills for emergency cases.C)Doing research on ear,nose and throat diseases.D)Removing objects from patients’noses and ears.17.A)Many children like to smell things they find or play with.B)Many children like to put foreign objects in their mouths.C)Five-to nine-year-olds are the mos likely to put things in their ears.D)Children aged one to four a often more curious than older children.18.A)They tend to act out of impulse.B)They want to attract attentions.C)They are unaware of the potential risks.D)They are curious about these body parts.16—18题答案:16.D17.C18.DQuestions19to21are based on the passage you have just heard.19.A)It paid for her English lessons.B)It gave her a used bicycle.C)It delivered her daily necessities.D)It provided her with physical therapy.20.A)Expanding bike-riding lessons.B)Asking local people for donations.C)Providing free public transport.D)Offering walking tours to visitors.21.A)It is a language school.B)It is a charity organization.C)It is a counseling center.D)It is a sports club.19—21题答案:19.B20.A21.BQuestions22to25are based on the passage you have just heard.22.A)How mice imitate human behavior a space.B)How low gravity affects the human body.C)How mice interact in a new environment.D)How animals deal with lack of gravity.23.A)They were not use to the low-gravity cnvironment.B)They found it difficult to figure out where they were.C)They found the space in the cage too small to stay in.D)They were not sensitive to the changed environment.24.A)They tried every thing possible to escape from the cage.B)They continued to behave as they did in the beginning.C)They already felt at home in the new environment.D)They had found a lot more activities to engage in.25.A)They repeated their activities every day.B)They behaved as if they were on Earth.C)They begin to eat less after some time.D)They changed their routines in space.22—25题答案:22.D23.A24.C25.BPartⅢReading Comprehension(40minutes)Section ADirection:In this section,there s a passage with ten blanks.you are required to select one word for each blank from a list of choices given in a word bank following the passage.Read the passage through carefully before making your choices.Each choices in the bank is identified by a letter.Please mark the corresponding letter for each item on Answer Sheet2with a single line through the centre.You may not use any of the words in the bank more than once.When my son completes a task,I can’t help but praise him.It’s only natural to give praise where praise is due,right?But is there such a thing as too much praise?According to psychologist Katherine Phillip,children don’t benefit from 26praise as much as we’d like to think.“Parents often praise,believing they are building their child’s self-confidence.However,over-praising can have a 27effect,”says Phillip.“When we use the same praise28,it may become empty and no longer valued by the child.It can also become an expectation that anything they do must be29with praise.This may lead to the child avoiding taking risks due to fear of30their parents.”Docs this mean we should do away with all the praise?Phillip says no,“The key to healthy praise is1o focus on the process rather than the31it is the recognition of a child’s attempt,or the process in which they achieved something, that is essential,”she says,“Parents should encourage their child to take the risks needed to learn and grow.”So how do we break the32of praise we’re all so accustomed to?Phillip says it’s important to33between“person praise”and“process raise”.“Person praise is34saying how great someone is.It’s a form personal approval.Process praise s acknowledgement of the efforts te person has just35.Children who receive person praise are more likely to feel shame after losing,”says Phillip.A)choose F)experienced K)repeatedlyB)constant G)negative L)rewardedC)disappointing H)outcome M)separatelyD)distinguish I)pattern N)simplyE)exhausting J)plural O)undertaken答案:26.B27.G28.K29.L30.C31.H32.I33.D34.N35.OSection BDirectlons:In this section,you are going to read a passage with ten statements attached to it. Each statement contains information given in one of the paragraphs.Identify the paragraph from which the information is derived.You may choose a paragraph more than once.Each paragraph is marked with a letter.Answer the questions by marking the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2.Poverty is a story about us,not them[A]Too often still we think we know the poverty looks like.It's the way we've been taught,the images we’ve been forced-fed decades.The chronically homeless.The undocumented immigrant.The urban poor,usually personified as a woman of color, the"welfare queen"politicians still too often reference.[B]But as income inequality rises to record levels in the United States,even in the midst of a record economic expansions,.those familiar images are outdated, hurtful and counterproductive to focusing attention on solutions and building ladders of opportunity.IC]Today's faces of inequality and lack of opportunity look like all of us.It's Anna Landre,a disabled Georgetown University student fighting to keep health benefits that allow-her the freedom to live her life lt's Tiffanie Standard,a counselor for young women of color in Philadelphia who want to be tech entrepreneurs—but who must work multiple jobs to stay afloat.It's Ken Outlaw,a welder in rural North Carolina whose dream of going back to school at a local community college was dashed by Hurricane Florence-just one of the extreme weather events that have tipped the balance for struggling Americans across the nation,[D]If these arc the central characters of our story about poverty.what layers of perceptions,myths,and realities must we unearth to find meaningful solutions and support?In pursuit of revealing this complicated reality,Mothering Justice,led by women of color,went last year to the state capital in Lansing,Michigan,to lobby on issues that affect working mothers.One of the Mothering Justice organizers went to the office of a state representative to talk about the lack of affordable childcare-the vestiges(痕迹))of a system that expected mothers to stay home with their children while their husbands worked,A legislative staffer dismissed the activist’s concerns, telling her“my husband took care of that-l stayed home.”[E]That comment,says Mothering Justice director Danielle Atkinson.,"was meant to shame"and relied on the familiar trope that a woman of color concemed about income inequality and programs that promote mobility must by definition be a single mom,probably with multiple kids.,In this case.Mothering Justice activist happened to be married.And in most cases in the America of2019,the images that come to mind when we hear the words poverty or income inequality fail miserably in reflecting a complicated reality:poverty touches virtually all of us.The face of income inequality,for all but a very few of us,is the one we each see in the mirror.[F]How many of us are poor in the U.S.?It depends on who you ask.According to the Census Bureau,38million people in the U.S.are living below the official poverty thresholds,Taking into account economic need beyond that absolute measure,the Institute for Policy Studies found that140million peoplc are poor or low-income. That's almost half the U.S population.[G]Whatever the measure,within that massive group,poverty is extremely diverse.We know that some people are more affected than others,like children,the elderly,people with disabilities,and people of color.[H]But the fact that4in10Americans can't come up with$400in an emergency is a commonly cited statistic for good reason:economic instability stretches across race,gender,and geography.It even reaches into the middle classes,as real wages have stagnated(不增长)for all but the very wealthy and temporary spells of financial instability are not uncommon.[I]Negative images remain of who is living in poverty as well as what is needed to move out of it.The big American myth is that you can pull yourself up by your own effort and change a bad situation into a good one.The reality is that finding opportunity without help from families,friends.schools,,and community is virtually impossible.And the playing field is nothing close to level.[J]The Frame Works institute,a research group that focuses on public framing of issues,has studied what sustains stereotypes and narratives of poverty in the United Kingdom."People view economic success and well being in life as product of choice, willpower,drive,grit,and gumption,"says Nat Kendall-Taylor,CEO of Frame Works.“When we see people who are struggling.”he says,those assumptions“lead us to the perception that people in poverty are lazy.they don’t care,and they haven't made the right decisions.”[K]Does this sound familiar?Similar ideas surround poverty in the U.S.And these assumptions wreak havoc on reality."When people enter into that pattern of thinking,"says Kendall-Taylor,"it's cognitively comfortable to make sense of issues of poverty in that way.It creates a kind of cognitive blindness-all of the factors external to a person's drive and choices that they've made become invisible and fade from view.”Those external factors include the difficulties accompanying low-wage work ot struetual discrimination based on race,gender,or ability.Assumptions get worse when people who are poor use government benefits to help them survive.There is a great tension between"the poor"and those who are receiving what has become a dirty word:"welfare."According to the General Social Survey,7l percent of respondents believe the contry is spending too little on a"welfare":37percent believe we are spending too much,[N]"Poverty has been interchangeable with people of color-specifically black women and black mothers,"says Atkinson of Mothering Justice.It's true that black mothers are more affected by poverty than many other groups,yet theyare disproportionately the face of poverty.For example,Americans routinely overestimate the share of black recipients of public assistance programs.[O]In reality,most people will experience some form of financial hardship at some point in their lives.Indeed,people tend to dip in and out of poverty,perhaps due to unexpected obstacles like losing a job,or when hours of a low-wage job fluctuate.[P]Something each of us can do is to treat each other with the dignity and sympathy that is deserved and to understand deeply that the issue of poverty touches all of us.答案:36.[E]That comment,says Mothering Justice director Danielle Atkinson,"was meant to shame"37.[H]But the fact that4in10Americans can't come up with$400in an emergency is a commonly cited statistic for good reason:economic instability stretches across race,gender,and geography.38.[M]According to the General Social Survey,71percent of respondents believe the country is spending too little on"assistance to the poor."39.[J]The Frame Works Institute,a research group that focuses on public framing of issues,has studied what sustains stereo types and narratives of poverty in the United Kingdom40.[D]lf these are the central characters of our story about poverty,what layers of perceptions,myths,and realities must we unearth to find meaningful solutions and support?41.[F]How many of us are poor in the U.S.?42.[N]“Poverty has been interchangeable with people of color-specifically black women and”black mothers,"says Atkinson of Mothering Justice.43.[1]Negative images remain of who is living in poverty as well as what is needed to move out of it.44.[E]That comment,says Mothering Justice director Dan-ielle Atkinson,"was meant to shame"45.[L]Those external factors include the difficulties accompanying low-wage work or structural discrimination based on race,gender,or ability.Section CDirections:There are2passage in this section.Each passage is followed by some quetements or unfinished statemeents.For each of them there are four choices maked A),B),C)and D).You should decide on the best choice and mark the correponding letter on Answer Sheet2with a single line through the centre.Passage OneQuestions46to50are based on the following passage.Boredom has,paradoxically,become quite interesting to academics lately.In early May.London's Boring Conference celebrated seven years of delighting in dullness.At this event.people flocked to talks about weather,traffic jams and vending-machine sounds.,among other sleep-inducing topics What,exactly,is everybody studying? One widely accepted definition of boredom is"the distasteful experience of wanting, but being unable.to engage in satisfying activity."But how can you quantify a person's boredom level and compare it with someone else’s?In1986,psychologists introduced the Boredom Proneness Scale,designed to measure an individual’s overall tendency to feel bored By contrast,the Mulitidimensional State Boredom scale,developed in2008,measures a person’s feelings of boredom in a given situation.Boredom has been linked to behavior issues including inattentive driving.mindless snacking.excessive drinking,and and addictive gambling.In fact, many of us would choose pain over boredom.One team of psychologists discovered that two-thirds of men and a quarter of women would rather self-administer electric shocks than sit alone with their thoughts for15minutes.Researching this phenomenon,another team asked volunteers to watch boring.sad,or ncutar films,during which they could self-administer elccrie shocks,The bored volunteers shocked themselves more and harder than the sad or neutral ones did.But boredom isn't all bad.By encouraging self-reflection and daydreaming.it can spur activity.An early study gave participants abundant time to complete problem-solving and word-association exercises.Once all the obvious answers were exhausted,participants gave more and more incentive answers to combat boredom:A British study took these findings one step further,asking subjects to complete a creative challenge(coming up with a list of alternative uses for a household item).One group of subjects did a boring activity first.while the others wentstraight to the creative task.Those whose boredom pumps had been primed were more productive.In our always connected world,boredom may be a hard-to-define state,but it is a fertile one,Watch paint dry or water boil,or at least put away our smart phone for a while,and you might unlock your next big idea.46.When are people likely to experience boredom,according to an accepted psychological definition?A)When they don’t have the chance to do what they want.B)When they don’t enjoy the materials they are studying.C)When they experience something unpleasant.D)When they engage in some routine activities.47.What does the author say boredom can lead to?A)DeterminationB)Mental deteriorationC)ConcentrationD)Harmful conduct48.What is the findings of one team of psychologists in their experiment?A)Volunteers prefer watching a boring movie to sitting alone deliberating.B)Many volunteers choose to hurt themselves rather than endure boredom.C)Male volunteers arc more immune to the effects of boredom than females.D)Many volunteers are unable to resist boredom longer than fifteen minutes.49.Why does the author say boredom isn’t all bad?A)It stimulates memorization.B)It may promote creative thinking.C)It allows time for relaxation.D)It may facilitate independent learning.50.What does the author suggests one do when faced with a challenging problem?A)stop idling and think big.B)Unlock one’s smart phone.C)Look around oneself for stimulation.D)Allow oneself some time to be bored.Passage TwoQuestions51to55are based on the following passage.Forests in countries like Brazil and the Congo get a lot of attention from environmentalists,and it is easy to see why.South America and sub-Saharan Africa are experiencing deforestation on an enormous scale:every year almost s million hectares are lost.But forests are also changing in rich Western countries They are growing larger,both in the sense that they occupy more and that the tees in them and bigger.What is going on?Forests are spreading in almost all Western countries,with fastest growth in places that historically had rather few tress.In199028%of Spain was forested;now the proportion is37%.In both Greece and Italy,the growth was from26%to32%over the same period.Forests are gradually taking more and in America and Australia.Perhaps most astonishing is the trend in Ireland.Roughly1%of that country was forested when it became independent in1922.Forests cover11%of the land,and the governments wants to push the proportion to18%by the2040s.Two things are fertilizing this growth.The first is the abandonment of farmland, especially in high,dry places where nothing grows terribly well.When farmers give up trying to earn a living from farming or herding trees simply move in.The second is governments policy and subsidy.Throughout history,governments have protected and promoted forests for diverse reasons,ranging from the need for wooden warships to a desire to promote suburban house-building.Nowadays forests are increasingly welcome because they suck in carbon pollution from the air.The justifications change; the desire for more trees remains constant.The greening of the West does not delight everyone.Farmers complain that land is being taken out of use by generously subsidized tree plantations.Parts of Spain and Portugal suffer from terrible forest fires.Others simply dislike the appearance of forests planted in neat rows.They will have to get used to the trees,however.The growth of Western forests seems almost as unstoppable as deforestation elsewhere.51.What is catching environmentalists’attention nowadays?A)Rich countries are stripping poor ones of their resources.B)Forests are fast shrinking in many developing countries.C)Forests are eating away the fertile farmland worldwide.D)Rich countries are doing little to address deforestation.52.Which countries have the fastest forest growth?A)Those that brave newly achieved independence.B)Those that at have the greatest demand for timberC)Those that used to have the lowest forest coverage.D)Those that provide enormous government subsidies.53.What has encouraged forest growth historically?A)The government’s advocacy.B)The use of wood for fuel.C)The favorable climate.D)The green movement.54.What account for our increasing desire for forests?A)Their unique scenic beauty.B)Their use as fruit plantation.C)Their capability of improving air quality.D)Their stable supply of building materials.55.What docs the author conclude about the prospects of forestation?A)Deserts in sub-Saharan Africa will diminish gradually.B)It will play a more and more important role in people’s lives.C)Forest destruction in the developing world will quickly slow down.D)Developed and developing countries are moving in opposite direction答案:46-50ADBCD51-55BCACDPartⅣTranslation(30minutes)Directions:For this part,you are allowed30minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English.You should write your anwer on Answer Sheet2.春节前夕吃团圆饭是中国人的传统。
2020年12月四级考试真题(一)Part I Writing(30minutes)Directions:For this part,you are allowed30minutes to write on the topic Changes in the Way of Education.You should write at least120words but no more than180 words.PartⅡListening Comprehension(25minutes)Section ADirections:In this section,you will hear three news reports.At the end of each news report,you will hear two or three questions.Both the news report 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 Sheet1with a single line through the centre.Questions1and2are based on the news report you have just heard.1.A)Many people have been attacked by Devil Firefish.B)The Mediterranean is a natural habitat of Devil Firefish.C)Invasive species are driving away certain native species.D)A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.2.A)It could badly pollute the surrounding waters.B)It could pose a threat to other marine species.C)It could disrupt the food chains there.D)It could add to greenhouse emissions.Questions3and4are based on the news report you have just heard.3.A)Cars will not be allowed to enter the city.B)Pedestrians will have free access to the city.C)About half of its city center will be closed to cars.D)Buses will be the only vehicles allowed on its streets.4.A)The unbearable traffic noise.C)The ever-growing cost of petrol.B)The worsening global warming.D)The rising air pollution in Paris.Questions5to7are based on the news report you have just heard.5.A)His house was burnt down in a fire.C)His good luck charm sank into the sea.B)Many of his possessions were stolen.D)His fishing boat got wrecked on a rock.6.A)Change his fishing locations.C)Sell the pearl he had kept for years.B)Find a job in a travel agency.D)Spend a few nights on a small island.7.A)His pearl could be displayed in a museum.B)His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.C)The largest pearl in the world weighs14pounds.D)A New York museum has the world's biggest pearl.Section BDirections:In this section,you will hear two long conversations.At the end of each conversation,you will hear four 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).Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet1with a single line through the centre.Questions8to11are based on the conversation you have just heard.8.A)It boasts a fairly long history.C)It has75offices around the world.B)It has over50business partners.D)It produces construction materials.9.A)It was started by his father.C)It is over100years old.B)It has about50employees.D)It is a family business.10.A)Outdated product design.C)Shortage of raw material supply.B)Loss of competitive edge.D)Legal disputes in many countries.11.A)Introducing innovative marketing strategies.C)Providing training for its staff members.B)Seeking new ways to increase its exports.D)Conducting a financial analysis for it.Section CDirections:In this section,you will hear three passages.At the end of each passage, you will hear three or four 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 Sheet1with a single line through the centre.Questions12to15are based on the conversation you have just heard.12.A)She is a real expert at house decorations.B)She is really impressed by the man's house.C)She is well informed about the design business.D)She is attracted by the color of the sitting room.13.A)From a construction businessman.B)From his younger brother Greg.C)From home design magazines.D)From a professional interior designer.14.A)The cost was affordable.B)The style was fashionable.C)The effort was worthwhile.D)The effect was unexpected.15.A)She'd like him to talk with Jonathan about a new project.B)She'd like to show him around her newly-renovated house.C)She wants to discuss the house decoration budget with him.D)She wants him to share his renovation experience with her.Questions16to18are based on the passage you have just heard.16.A)Paying hospital bills for emergency cases.B)Doing research on ear,nose and throat diseases.C)Removing objects from patients'noses and ears.D)Providing routine care for small children.17.A)Children aged one to four are often more curious than older children.B)Five-to nine-year-olds are the most likely to put things in their ears.C)Many children like to put foreign objects in their mouths.D)Many children like to smell things they find or play with.18.A)They want to attract attention.B)They tend to act out of impulse.C)They are unaware of the potential risks.D)They are curious about these body parts.Questions19to21are based on the passage you have just heard19.A)It gave her a used bicycle.C)It delivered her daily necessities.B)It paid for her English lessons.D)It provided her with physical therapy.20.A)Expanding bike-riding lessons.C)Offering walking tours to visitors.B)Providing free public transport.D)Asking local people for donations.21.A)It is a sports club.C)It is a counseling center.B)It is a language school.D)It is a charity organization.Questions22to25are based on the passage you have just heard22.A)How animals deal with lack of gravity.B)How mice interact in a new environment.C)How low gravity affects the human body.D)How mice imitate human behavior in space.23.A)They found the space in the cage too small to stay in.B)They found it difficult to figure out where they were.C)They were not used to the low-gravity environment.D)They were not sensitive to the changed environment.24.A)They continued to behave as they did in the beginning.B)They already felt at home in the new environment.C)They had found a lot more activities to engage in.D)They tried everything possible to escape from the cage.25.A)They changed their routines in space.C)They behaved as if they wereon Earth.B)They began to eat less after some time.D)They repeated their activitiesevery day.Part III Reading Comprehension(40minutes) Section ADirections:In this section,there is a passage with ten blanks.You are required to select one word for each blank from a list of choices given in a word bank following the passage.Read the passage through carefully before making your choices.Each choice in the bank is identified by a letter.Please mark the corresponding letter for each item on Answer Sheet2with a single line through the centre.You may not use any of the words in the bank more than once.Trust is fundamental to life.If you can't trust anything,life becomes intolerable. You can't have relationships without trust,let alone good ones.In the workplace,too,trust is26.An organization without trust will be full of fear and27.If you work for a boss who doesn't trust their employees to do things right,you'll have a28time.They'll be checking up on you all the time,correcting "mistakes"and29-reminding you to do this or that.Colleagues who don't trust one another will need to spend more time30their backs than doing any useful work.Organizations are always trying to cut costs.Think of all the additional tasks caused by lack of trust.Audit(审计)departments only exist because of panieskeep large volumes of31because they don't trust their suppliers,their contractors or their customers.Probably more than half of all administrative work is only there because of an ever-existing sense that"you can't trust anyone these days."If even a small part of such valueless work could be32,the savings would run into millions of dollars.All this is extra work we33onto ourselves because we don't trust people-the checking,following through,doing things ourselves because we don't believe others will do them34-or at all.If we took all that away,how much extra time would we suddenly find in our life?How much of our work35would disappear?A)constantlyB)credibleC)essentialD)exploringE)gatherF)loadG)miserableH)pressure I)properly J)records K)removed L)stacks M)suspicion N)tracked O)watchingSection BDirections:In this section,you are going to read a passage with ten statements attached to it.Each statement contains information given in one of the paragraphs. Identify the paragraph from which the information is derived.You may choose a paragraph more than once.Each paragraph is marked with a letter.Answer the questions by marking the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet2.The Place Where the Poor Once ThrivedA)This is the land of opportunity.If that weren't already implied by thelandscape—rolling green hills,palm trees,sun-kissed flowers—then it's evident in the many stories of people who grew up poor in these sleepy neighborhoods and rose to enormous success.People like Tri Tran,who fled Vietnam on a boat in 1986,showed up in San Jose with nothing,made it to MIT,and then founded the food-delivery start-up Munchery,which is valued at$300million.B)Indeed,data suggests that this is one of the best places to grow up poor in America.A child born in the early1980s into a low-income family in San Jose had a12.9percent chance of becoming a high earner as an adult,according to a landmark study released in2014by the economist Raj Chetty and his colleagues from Harvard and Berkeley.That number—12.9percent-may not seem remarkable,but it was:Kids in San Jose whose families fell in the bottom quintile(五分位数)of income nationally had the best shot in the country at reaching the top quintile. C)By contrast,just4.4percent of poor kids in Charlotte moved up to the top;inDetroit the figure was5.5percent.San Jose had social mobility comparable toDenmark's and Canada's and higher than other progressive cities such as Boston and Minneapolis.D)The reasons kids in San Jose performed so well might seem obvious.Some of theworld's most innovative companies are located here,providing opportunities such as the one seized by a12-year-old Mountain View resident named Steve Jobs when he called William Hewlett to ask for spare parts and subsequently received a summer job.This is a city of immigrants——38percent of the city's population today is foreign-born—and immigrants and their children have historically experienced significant upward mobility in America.The city has long had a large foreign-born population(26.5percent in1990),leading to broader diversity,which, the Harvard and Berkeley economists say,is a good predictor of mobility.E)Indeed,the streets of San Jose seem,in some ways,to embody the best of America.It's possible to drive in a matter of minutes from sleek(光亮的)office towers near the airport where people pitch ideas to investors,to single-family homes with orange trees in their yards,or to a Vietnamese mall.The libraries here offer programs in17languages,and there are areas filled with small businesses owned by Vietnamese immigrants,Mexican immigrants,Korean immigrants,and Filipino immigrants,to name a few.F)But researchers aren't sure exactly why poor kids in San Jose did so well.The cityhas a low prevalence of children growing up in:single-parent families,and a low level of concentrated poverty,both factors that usually mean a city allows for good intergenerational mobility.But San Jose also performs poorly on some of the measures correlated with good mobility.It is one of the most unequal places out of the741that the researchers measured,and it has high degrees of racial andeconomic segregation(隔离).Its schools underperform based on how much money there is in the area,said Ben Scuderi,a predoctoral fellow at the Equality of Opportunity Project at Harvard,which uses big data to study how to improve economic opportunities for low-income children."There's a lot going on here which we don't totally understand,"he said."It's interesting,because it kind of defies our expectations."G)The Chetty data shows that neighborhoods and places mattered for children born inthe San Jose area of the1980s.Whether the city still allows for upward mobility of poor kids today,though,is up for debate.Some of the indicators such as income inequality;measured by the Equality of Opportunity Project for the year2000, have only worsened in the past16years.H)Some San Jose residents say that as inequality has grown in recent years,upwardmobility has become much more difficult to achieve.As Silicon Valley has become home to more successful companies,the flood of people to the area has caused housing prices to skyrocket.By most measures,San Jose is no longer a place where low-income,or even middle-income families,can afford to live.Rents in San Jose grew42.6percent between2006and2014,which was the largest increase in the country during that time period.The city has a growing homelessness problem,which it tried.to address by shutting down"The Jungle,"one of the largest homeless encampments(临时住地)in the nation,in2014.Inequality is extreme.The Human Development Index-a measure of life expectancy,education and per capita(人均的)income-gives East San Jose a score of4.85out of10,while nearby Cupertino,where Apple's headquarters sits, receives a9.26.San Jose used to have a happy mix of factors—cheap housing,closeness to a rapidly developing industry,tightly-knit immigrant communities—that together opened up the possibility of prosperity for even its poorest residents.But in recent years,housing prices have skyrocketed,the region's rich and poor have segregated,and middle-class jobs have disappeared.Given this,the future for the region's poor doesn't look nearly as bright as it once did.I)Leaders in San Jose are determined to make sure that the city regains its status as aplace where even poor kids can access the resources to succeed.With Silicon Valley in its backyard,it certainly has the chance to do so."I think there is a broad consciousness in the Valley that we can do better than to leave thousands of our neighbors behind through a period of extraordinary success,"San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said.J)But in today's America-a land of rising inequality,increasing segregation,and stagnating(不增长的)middle-class wages—can the San Jose region really once again become a place of opportunity?K)The idea that those at the bottom can rise to the top is central to America's ideas about itself.That such mobility has become more difficult in San Jose raises questions about,the endurance of that foundational belief.After all,if the one-time land of opportunity can't be fixed,what does that say for the rest of America? 36.According to some people living in San Jose,it has become much harder for thepoor to get ahead due to the increased inequality.37.In American history,immigrants used to have a good chance to move upward insociety.38.If the problems of San Jose can't be solved,one of America's fundamental beliefsabout itself can be shaken.39.San Jose was among the best cities in America for poor kids to move up the socialladder.40.Whether poor kids in San Jose today still have the chance to move upward isquestionable.41.San Jose's officials are resolved to give poor kids access to the resources necessaryfor success in life.42.San Jose appears to manifest some of the best features of America.43.As far as social mobility is concerned,San Jose beat many other progressive citiesin America.44.Due to some changes like increases in housing prices in San Jose,the prospects forits poor people have dimmed.45.Researchers do not have a clear idea why poor children in San Jose achieved suchgreat success several decades ago.Section CDirections:There are2passages 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 Sheet2with a single line through the centre.Passage OneQuestions46to50are based on the following passage.Three children in every classroom have a diagnosable mental health condition. Half of these are behavioural disorders,while one third are emotional disorders such as stress,anxiety and depression,which often become outwardly apparent through self-harm.There was an astonishing52per cent jump in hospital admissions for children and young people who had harmed themselves between2009and2015.Schools and teachers have consistently reported the scale of the problem since st year,over half of teachers reported that more of.their pupils experience mental health problems than in the past.But teachers also consistently report how ill-equipped they feel to meet pupils'mental health needs,and often cite a lack of training,expertise and support from the National Health Service(英国国家医疗服务体系).Part of the reason for the increased pressure on.schools is that there are now fewer'early intervention(干预)'and low-level mental health services based in the community.Cuts to local authority budgets since2010have resulted in a significant decline of these services,despite strong evidence of their effectiveness in preventing crises further down the line.The only way to break the pressures on both mental health services and schools is to reinvest in early intervention services inside schools.There are strong arguments for why schools are best placed to provide mental health services.Schools see young people more than any other service,which givesthem a unique ability to get to hard-to-reach children and young people and build meaningful relationships with them over time.Recent studies have shown that children and young people largely prefer to see a counsellor in school rather than in an outside environment.young people have reported that for low-level conditions such as stress and anxiety,a clinical setting can sometimes be daunting(令人却步的).There are already examples of innovative schools which combine mental health and wellbeing provision with a strong academic curriculum.This will,though,require a huge cultural shift.Politicians,policymakers,commissioners and school leaders must be brave enough to make the leap towards reimagining schools as providers of health as well as education services.46.What are teachers complaining about?A)There are too many students requiring special attention.B)They are under too much stress counselling·needy students.C)Schools are inadequately equipped to implement any intervention.D)They lack the necessary resources to address pupils'mental problems.47.What do we learn from the passage about community health services in Britain?A)They have deteriorated due to budget cuts.B)They facilitate local residents'everyday lives.C)They prove ineffective in helping mental patients.D)They cover preventative care for the local residents.48.Where does the author suggest mental health services be placed?A)At home.B)At school.C)In hospitals.D)In communities.49.What do we learn from the recent studies?A)Students prefer to rely on peers to relieve stress and anxiety.B)Young people are keen on building meaningful relationships.C)Students are more comfortable seeking counselling in school.D)Young people benefit from various kinds of outdoor activities.50.What does the author mean by a cultural shift(Line2,Para.6)?A)Simplification of schools'academic curriculums.B)Parents'involvement in schools'policy-making.C)A change in teachers'attitudes to mental health.D)A change in the conception of what schools are.Passage TwoQuestions51to55are based on the following passage.Picture this:You're at a movie theater food stand loading up on snacks.You have a choice of a small,medium or large soda.The small is$3.50and the large is$5.50.It's a tough decision:The small size may not last you-through the whole movie,but$5.50 for some sugary drink seems ridiculous.But there's a third option,a medium soda for $5.25.Medium may be the perfect amount of soda for you,but the large is only a quarter more.If you're like most people,you end up buying the large(and taking a bathroom break midshow).If you're wondering who would buy the medium soda,the answer is almost-no one. In fact,there's a good chance the marketing department purposely priced the medium soda as a decoy(诱饵),making you more likely to buy the large soda rather than the small.I have written about this peculiarity in human nature before with my friend Dan Ariely,who studied this phenomenon extensively after noticing pricing for subscriptions(订阅)to The Economist.The digital subscription was$59,the print subscription was$125,and the print plus digital subscription was also$125.No one in their right mind would buy the print subscription when you could get digital as well for the same price,so why was it even an option?Ariely ran an experiment and found that when only the two"real"choices were offered,more people chose the less-expensive digital subscription.But the addition of the bad option made people much more likely to choose the more expensive print plus digital option.Brain scientists call this effect"asymmetric dominance"and it means that people gravitate toward the choice nearest a clearly inferior option.Marketing professors call it the decoy effect,which is certainly easier to remember.Lucky for consumers,almost no one in the business community understands it.The decoy effect works because of the way our brains.assign value when making choices.Value is almost never absolute;rather,we decide an object's value relative to our other choices.If more options are introduced,the value equation changes.51.Why does the author ask us to imagine buying food in the movie theater?A)To illustrate people's peculiar shopping behavior.B)To illustrate the increasing variety of snacks there.C)To show how hard it can be to choose a drink there.D)To show how popular snacks are among movie fans.52.Why is the medium soda priced the way it is?A)To attract more customers to buy it.B)To show the price matches the amount.C)To ensure customers drink the right amount of soda.D)To make customers believe they are getting a bargain.53.What do we learn from Dan Ariely's experiment?A)Lower-priced goods attract more customers.B)The Economist's promotional strategy works.C)The Economist's print edition turns out to sell the best.D)More readers choose the digital over the print edition.54.For what purpose is"the bad option"(Line7,Para.3)added?A)To cater to the peculiar needs of some customers.B)To help customers to make more rational choices.C)To trap customers into buying the more pricey item.D)To provide customers with a greater variety of goods.55.How do we assess the value of a commodity,according to the passage?A)By considering its usefulness.C)By taking its quality into account.B)By comparing it with other choices.D)By examining its value equation.Part IV Translation(30minutes)Directions:For this part,you are allowed30minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English.You should write your answer on Answer Sheet2.生活在中国不同地区的人们饮食多种多样。
2020年12月大学英语四级作文真题及翻译一:WritingFor this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write an essay commenting on the saying “Never go out there to see what happens, go out there to make something happen” You can cite examples to illustrate the importance of being creative rather than mere onlookers in life. You should write at least 120 words, no more than 180 words.作文二:WritingDirections: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write an essay commenting on the saying ‘Learning is a daily experience and a lifetime mission.” You can cite examples to illustrate the importance of lifelong learning. You should write at least 120 words but no more than 180 words.作文三:WritingDirections: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write an essay commenting on the saying “Listening is more important than talking.” You can cite examples to illustrate the importance of listening. You should write at least 120 words but no more than 180 words.翻译一:中国父母往往过于关注孩子的学习,以至于不要他们帮忙做家务。
2020年12月英语四级真题及参考答案(完整版)Part I writingDirections:For this part,you are allowed30minutes to write a composition on the topic “Changes in the way of Transportation”.You should write at least120words but no more than180words.参考范文:With the social and economic development,our means of transportation have changed a lot over the last few decades,which has brought much convenience to our life.In the1970s and1980s,bicycles were the primary means of public transportation.Families that owned a bicycle were thought to be in relatively good economic conditions.Because of the implementation of the reform and opening policy,the economy and people’s living standards were improved a lot and travelling by private cars became more and more common in1990s and2000s. And thanks to the information technology,we can now enjoy bike-sharing service and online ride-hailing service which help to make our journey more economical and flexible.We have enough reason to believe that our way of transportation could be more and more economically friendly and intelligent.Part II Listening ComprehensionPartⅡListening Comprehension(25minutes)Section ADirections:In this section,you will hear three news reports.At the end of each news report,you will hear two or three questions.Both the news report 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 Sheet1with a single line through she centre. Questions1and2are based on the news report you have just heard.1.A)A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.B)Invasive species are driving away certain native species.C)The Mediterranean is a natural habitat of Devil Firefish.D)Many people have been attacked by Devil Firefish.2.A)It could add to greenhouse emissions.B)It could disrupt the food chains there.C)It could pose a threat to other marine species.D)It could badly pollute the surrounding waters.C)Spend a few nights on a small island.D)Sell the pearl he had kept for years.Questions3and4are based on the news report you have just heard.3.A)cars will not be allowed to enter the city.B)About half of its city center will be closed to cars.C)Buses will be the only vehicles allowed on its streets.D)Pedestrians will have free access to the city.4.A)The rising air pollution in Paris.B)The worsening global warming.C The ever-growing cost of petrol.D)The unbearable traffic noise.Questions5to7are based on the news report you have just heard.5.A)Many of his possessions were stolen.B)His house was burnt down in a fire.C)His fishing boat got wrecked on a rock.D)His good luck charm sank into the sea.6.A)Change his fishing locations.B)Find a job in a travel agency.C))Spend a few nights on a small islandD)Sell the pearl he had kept for years7.A)A New Year museumB)The largest pearl in the world weighsC)His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.D)His pearl could be displayed in a museum.Section BDirections:In this section,you will hear two long conversations.At the end of each conversation, you will hear four 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). Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet1with a single line through the centre. Questions8to11are based on the conversation you have just heard.8.A)It boasts a fairly long history.B)It produces construction materials.C)It has75offices around the world.D)It has over50business partners.9.A)It has about50employees.B)It was started by his father.C)It has a family business.D)It is over100years old.10.A)Shortage of raw material supply.B)Legal disputes in many countries.C)Outdated product design.D)Loss of competitive edge.11.A)Conducting a financial analysis for it.B)Providing training for its staff members.C)Seeking new ways to increase is exports.D)Introducing innovative marketing strategies.Questions12to15are based on the conversation you have just heard.12.A)She is a real expert at house decorations.B)She is well informed about the design business.C)She is attracted by the color of the sitting room.D)She is really impressed by the man’s house.13.A)From his younger brother Greg.B)From home design magazines.C)From a construction businessman.D)From a professional interior designer.14.A)The effort was worthwhile.B)The style was fashionable.C)The cost was affordable.D)The eft was unexpected.15.A)She’d like him to talk with Jonathan about a new project.B)She wants him to share his renovation experience with herC)She wants to discuss the house decoration budget with him.D)She’d like to show him around her newly-renovated house.Section CDirections:In this section,you will hear three passages.At the end of each passage,you will hear three or four 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 your choices marked A),B),C)and D).Then mark he corresponding letter on Answer Sheet1with a single line through the centre. Questions16to18are based on the passage you have just heard.16.A)Providing routine care for small children.B)Paying hospital bills for emergency cases.C)Doing research on ear,nose and throat diseases.D)Removing objects from patients’noses and ears.17.A)Many children like to smell things they find or play with.B)Many children like to put foreign objects in their mouths.C)Five-to nine-year-olds are the mos likely to put things in their ears.D)Children aged one to four a often more curious than older children.18.A)They tend to act out of impulse.B)They want to attract attentions.C)They are unaware of the potential risks.D)They are curious about these body parts.Questions19to21are based on the passage you have just heard.19.A)It paid for her English lessons.B)It gave her a used bicycle.C)It delivered her daily necessities.D)It provided her with physical therapy.20.A)Expanding bike-riding lessons.B)Asking local people for donations.C)Providing free public transport.D)Offering walking tours to visitors.21.A)It is a language school.B)It is a charity organization.C)It is a counseling center.D)It is a sports club.Questions22to25are based on the passage you have just heard.22.A)How mice imitate human behavior a space.B)How low gravity affects the human body.C)How mice interact in a new environment.D)How animals deal with lack of gravity.23.A)They were not use to the low-gravity cnvironment.B)They found it difficult to figure out where they were.C)They found the space in the cage too small to stay in.D)They were not sensitive to the changed environment.24.A)They tried every thing possible to escape from the cage.B)They continued to behave as they did in the beginning.C)They already felt at home in the new environment.D)They had found a lot more activities to engage in.25.A)They repeated their activities every day.B)They behaved as if they were on Earth.C)They begin to eat less after some time.D)They changed their routines in space.听力原文:Listening ComprehensionSection ANews report1A poisonous fish which has a sting strong enough to kill a human is invading the Mediterranean, warned scientists.The International Union for the Conservation of Nature(UICN)has raised concerns after the poisonous fish was spotted in the waters around Turkey,Cyprus and the eastern Mediterranean.Native to the South Pacific and Indian Ocean,the potentially deadly fish has poisonous hooks and a painful sting capable of killing people.Although fatalities are rare,the stings can cause extreme pain and stop people breathing.The fish,often known as Devil Fire fish,is a highly invasive species.And environmentalists fear its arrival could endanger other types of marine life.After being spotted in the Mediterranean,a marine scientist says,"The fish is spreading,and that's a cause for concern."Q1:What is reported in the news?Q2:What is the environmentalists'concern of the spread of Devil Firefish in the Mediterranean?News report2[Q3]Almost half the centre of Paris will be accessible only by foot or bicycle this Sunday to mark World Car-Free Day.[Q4]This is in response to rising air pollution that made Paris the most polluted city in the world for a brief time.Mayor Anne Hidalgo promoted the first World Car FreeDay last year.Hidalgo also has supported a Paris Breathes Day.On the first Sunday of every month, Paris clears traffic from eight lanes of the main road.About400miles of streets will be closed to cars.It is expected to bring significant reduction in pollution levels."Last year's car-free day showed a 40%drop in pollution levels in some parts of the city,according to an independent air pollution monitor",reports the Guardian,"and some levels dropped by50%in the city centre.'Q3:What will happen on World Car Free Day in Paris?Q4:What motivated the mayor of Paris to promote the first World Car Free Day in her city?News report3A Philippine fisherman was feeling down on his luck when a house fire forced him to clear out his possessions and change locations.Then,a good luck charm that he had kept under his bed changed his life.The unidentified man had fished out a giant pearl from the ocean when his anchor got stuck on the rock while sailing off a coastal island in the Philippines ten years ago.When he was forced to sell it,the shocked tourist agent at Puerto Princesca told him that the77-pound giant pearl that he had kept hidden in his rundown wooden house was the biggest pearl in the world,which was valued at f76million.The pearl of Allah,which is currently on display in a New York museum,only weighs14pounds.That is five times smaller than the pearl that the fisher man just handed in.The monstrous pearl,measured at1foot wide and2.2feet long,is going to be verified by local experts and international authorities before hopefully going on display to attract more tourists in the little town. O5:What happened to the Philippine fisherman one day?Q6:What was the fisherman forced to do?Q7:What did the fisherman learn from the tourist agent?Section BLong conversation1WOMAN:Mr.Smith,It’s a pleasure meeting you!Man:Nice to meet you,too.What can I do for you?WOMAN:Well,I’m here to show you what our firm can do for you.Astro Consultants has branches in over fifty countries,offering different business services.We’re a global company with75years of history.And our clients include some of the world’s largest companies【8】.MAN:Thank you,Mrs.Houston.I know Astro Consultants is a famous company.But you said you would show me what you could do for me.Well.What exactly can your firm do for my company? WOMAN:We advise businesses on all matters,from market analysis to legal issues.Anything a business like yours could meet.Our firm offers expert advice.Could I ask you,Mr.Smith,to tell me a little about your company and the challenges you face?That way,I could better respond as to how we can help you.Man:OK,sure.This is a family business started by my grandfather in1950.We employ just over 100people.We manufacture an export stone for buildings and other constructions.Our clients usually want a special kind of stone cut in a special design.And that’s what we do in our factory【9】. Our main challenge is that our national currency is rising,and we’re losing competitive advantages to stone produces in India【10】.WOMAN:I see.That’s very interesting.I will suggest that you let us first conduct a financial analysis of your company,together with the analysis of your competitors in India.【11】That way,we could offer the best advice on different ways forward for you.Q8:What do we learn about the woman’s company?Q9:What does the man say about his own company?Q10:What is the main problem with the man’s company?Q11:What does the woman suggest doing to help the man’s company?Long conversation2Woman:Wow,congratulations,Simon!The place looks absolutely amazing!Man:Really?You think so?W:Of course.I love it.It looks like you had a professional interior designer.But you didn’t,did you?M:No.I did it all by myself with a little help from my brother,Greg.He’s actually in the construction business,which was really helpful.W:Honestly,I’m impressed!I know I can probably repaint the walls in my house over a weekend or something,but not a full renovation.Where did you get your ideas?I wouldn’t know where to start.[12]M:Well,for a while now,I’ve been regularly buying home design magazines.Every now and then, I’d saved the pictures I liked.Believe it or not,I have a full notebook of magazine pages.[13]Since by overall style was quite minimal,I thought and hoped a whole renovation wouldn’t be too difficult. And sure enough,with Greg’s help,it was very achievable.W:Wasn’t it expensive?I have imagined a project like this could be.M:Actually,it was surprisingly affordable.I managed to sell a lot of my old furniture and put that extra money towards the new material.[14]Greg was also able to get some discount materials from a recent project he was working on as well.W:Great!If you don’t mind,I’d like to pick your brain a bit more.Johansson and I are thinking of renovating our sitting room,not the whole house,not yet anyway.And we’d love to get some inspiration from your experience.[15]Are you free to come over for a coffee early next week?Q12:What do we learn about the woman from the conversation?Q13:Where did the man get his ideas for the project?)Q14:What did the man say about the project he recently completed?Q15:Why does the woman invite the man to her house next week?Section CPassage1Removing foreign objects from ears and noses costs England almost E3m year,a study suggests.[Q16]Children were responsible for the vast majority of cases-95%of objects removed from noses and85%from ears.Every year,an average of1,218nose and2,479ear removals took place between2010and2016.According to England's Hospital Episode Statistics,children aged one to four were the most likely to need help from doctors fora foreign object in their nose.Five to nine year old come to the hospital with something in their ear the most.Jewelry items accounted for up to40% of cases in both the ears and noses of children.Paper and plastic toys were the items removed next most from noses.Cotton buds and pencils were also found in ears.[Q17]According to the study,the occurrence of foreign objects in children is generally attributed to curiosity Children have an impulse to explore their noses and ears.This results in the accidental entry of foreign objects.[Q18]Any ear,nose and throat surgeon has many weird stories about wonderful objects found in the noses and ears of children and adults.Batteries can pose a particular danger.In all cases,prevention is better than cure.This is why many toys contain warnings about small parts.Recognizing problems early and seeking medical attention is important.Q16:What does England spend an annual E3m on?Q17:What do we learn from England's Hospital Episode Statistics?Q18:What is generally believed to account for children putting things in their ears or noses?Passage2Good morning,I’d like to talk to you about my charity ReBicycle.But before that,let me introduce someone.This is Leila Rahimi.She was so scared when she first moved to New Zeal-and that she struggled to leave the house and would spend days working up the courage to walk to the supermarket for basic supplies.After a few months of being quite down and unhappy,she was invited to join a local bike club.At this time,ReBicycle got involved and gave Leila a second-hand bicycle.[Q19]In weeks,her depression had begun to ease as she cycled.The bicycle totally changed her life,giving her hope and a true feeling of freedom.To date,ReBicycle has donated more than200bikes to those in need,and is now expanding bike-riding lessons as demand soars.[Q20]With a bike,you can travel farther but for almost no cost. The three hours a day that used to spend on walking to and from English language lessons has been reduced to just one hour.Our bike-riding lessons are so successful that we are urgently looking for more volunteers.[Q21]Learning to ride a bike is almost always more difficult as an adult,and this can take days and weeks,rather than hours.So,if any of you have some free time during the weekend,please come join us at Re Bicycle and make a difference in someone’s life.Q19:What did Re Bicycle do to help Leila Rahimi?Q20:What is Re Bicycle doing to help those in need?Q21:What do we learn from the passage about the Re Bicycle?Passage3Thanks to the International Space Station we know quite a bit about the effects of low gravity on the human body,but NASA scientists want to learn more.To that end,they have been studying how other species deal with low gravity,specifically focusing on mice(22).The results are both interesting and humorous.The scientists first send some mice in a specially designed cage to the International Space Station.The cage allowed them to study the behavior of the mice remotely from Earth via video.As you noticed in the video,the mice definitely seem uncomfortable at the beginning of the experiment. They move around clumsily,drifting within the small confines of the cage and do their best to figure out which way is up,but without success.(23)However,it’s not long before the mice begin to catch on.They adapt remarkably well to their new environment and even using the lack of gravity to their advantage as they push themselves around the cage.That’s when things really get wild.The11th day of the experiment shows the mice are not just dealing with the gravity change but actually seem to be enjoying it.(24)Several of the mice are observed running around the cage walls.The scientists wanted to see whether the mice would continue doing the same kinds of activities they were observed doing on Earth.The study showed that the mice kept much of their routines intact,including cleaning themselves and eating when hungry.(25)Q22What do Nasa scientists want to learn about?Q23What does the passage say about the mice at the beginning of the experiment?Q24What was observed about the mice on the11th day of the experiment?Q25What did the scientists find about the mice from the experiment?PartⅢReading Comprehension(40minutes)Section A(第1套)Directions:In this section,there is a passage with ton blanks.You are required to select one word for each blank from a list of choices given in a word bank following thepassage Read the passage through carefully before making your choices.Each choicein the bank is identified by a letter:Please mark the corresponding letter for each itemon Answer Sheet2with a single line through the centre.You may not use any of thewords in the bank more than once.When my son completes a task,I can’t help but praise him.It’s only natural to give praise where praise is due,right?But is there such a thing as too much praise?According to psychologist Katherine Phillip,children don’t benefit from26praise as much as we’d like to think.“Parents often praise,believing they are building their child’s self-confidence.However,over-praising can have a27effect,”says Phillip.“When we use the same praise28,it may become empty and no longer valued by the child.It can also become an expectation that anything they do must be29 with praise.This may lead to the child avoiding taking risks due to fear of30their parents.”Docs this mean we should do away with all the praise?Phillip says no,“The key to healthy praise is1o focus on the process rather than the31it is the recognition of a child’s attempt,or the process in which they achieved something,that is essential,”she says,“Parents should encourage their child to take the risks needed to learn and grow.”So how do we break the32of praise we’re all so accustomed to?Phillip says it’s important to 33between“person praise”and“process raise”.“Person praise is34saying how great someone is.It’s a form personal approval.Process praise s acknowledgement of the efforts te person has just35.Children who receive person praise are more likely to feel shame after losing,”says Phillip.A)choose B)constant C)disappointing D)distinguishE)exhausting F)experienced G)negative H)outcomeI)pattern J)plural K)repeatedly L)rewardedM)separately N)simply O)undertaken答案:26.B27.G28.K29.L30.C31.H32.I33.D34.N35.OSection BPoverty is a story about us,not them[A]Too often still we think we know the poverty looks like.It's the way we've been taught,the images we’ve been forced-fed decades.The chronically homeless.The undocumented immigrant. The urban poor,usually personified as a woman of color,the"welfare queen"politicians still too often reference.[B]But as income inequality rises to record levels in the United States,even in the midst of a record economic expansions,.those familiar images are outdated,hurtful and counterproductive to focusing attention on solutions and building ladders of opportunity.IC]Today's faces of inequality and lack of opportunity look like all of us.It's Anna Landre,a disabled Georgetown University student fighting to keep health benefits that allow-her the freedom to live her life lt's Tiffanie Standard,a counselor for young women of color in Philadelphia who want to be tech entrepreneurs—but who must work multiple jobs to stay afloat.It's Ken Outlaw,a welder in rural North Carolina whose dream of going back to school at a local community college was dashed by Hurricane Florence-just one of the extreme weather events that have tipped the balance for struggling Americans across the nation,[D]If these arc the central characters of our story about poverty.what layers of perceptions,myths, and realities must we unearth to find meaningful solutions and support?In pursuit of revealing thiscomplicated reality,Mothering Justice,led by women of color,went last year to the state capital in Lansing,Michigan,to lobby on issues that affect working mothers.One of the Mothering Justice organizers went to the office of a state representative to talk about the lack of affordable childcare-the vestiges(痕迹))of a system that expected mothers to stay home with their children while their husbands worked,A legislative staffer dismissed the activist’s concerns,telling her“my husband took care of that-l stayed home.”[E]That comment,says Mothering Justice director Danielle Atkinson.,"was meant to shame"and relied on the familiar trope that a woman of color concemed about income inequality and programs that promote mobility must by definition be a single mom,probably with multiple kids.,In this case.Mothering Justice activist happened to be married.And in most cases in the America of2019, the images that come to mind when we hear the words poverty or income inequality fail miserably in reflecting a complicated reality:poverty touches virtually all of us.The face of income inequality, for all but a very few of us,is the one we each see in the mirror.[F]How many of us are poor in the U.S.?It depends on who you ask.According to the Census Bureau,38million people in the U.S.are living below the official poverty thresholds,Taking into account economic need beyond that absolute measure,the Institute for Policy Studies found that140 million peoplc are poor or low-income.That's almost half the U.S population.[G]Whatever the measure,within that massive group,poverty is extremely diverse.We know that some people are more affected than others,like children,the elderly,people with disabilities,and people of color.[H]But the fact that4in10Americans can't come up with$400in an emergency is a commonly cited statistic for good reason:economic instability stretches across race,gender,and geography.It even reaches into the middle classes,as real wages have stagnated(不增长)for all but the very wealthy and temporary spells of financial instability are not uncommon.[I]Negative images remain of who is living in poverty as well as what is needed to move out of it. The big American myth is that you can pull yourself up by your own effort and change a bad situation into a good one.The reality is that finding opportunity without help from families,friends. schools,,and community is virtually impossible.And the playing field is nothing close to level. [J]The Frame Works institute,a research group that focuses on public framing of issues,has studiedwhat sustains stereotypes and narratives of poverty in the United Kingdom."People view economic success and well being in life as product of choice,willpower,drive,grit,and gumption,"says Nat Kendall-Taylor,CEO of Frame Works.“When we see people who are struggling.”he says,those assumptions“lead us to the perception that people in poverty are lazy.they don’t care,and they haven't made the right decisions.”[K]Does this sound familiar?Similar ideas surround poverty in the U.S.And these assumptions wreak havoc on reality."When people enter into that pattern of thinking,"says Kendall-Taylor,"it's cognitively comfortable to make sense of issues of poverty in that way.It creates a kind of cognitive blindness-all of the factors external to a person's drive and choices that they've made become invisible and fade from view.”Those external factors include the difficulties accompanying low-wage work ot struetual discrimination based on race,gender,or ability.Assumptions get worse when people who are poor use government benefits to help them survive.There is a great tension between"the poor"and those who are receiving what has become a dirty word:"welfare."According to the General Social Survey,7l percent of respondents believe the contry is spending too little on a"welfare":37percent believe we are spending too much,[N]"Poverty has been interchangeable with people of color-specifically black women and black mothers,"says Atkinson of Mothering Justice.It's true that black mothers are more affected by poverty than many other groups,yet they are disproportionately the face of poverty.For example,Americans routinely overestimate the share of black recipients of public assistance programs. [O]In reality,most people will experience some form of financial hardship at some point in their lives.Indeed,people tend to dip in and out of poverty,perhaps due to unexpected obstacles like losing a job,or when hours of a low-wage job fluctuate.[P]Something each of us can do is to treat each other with the dignity and sympathy that is deserved and to understand deeply that the issue of poverty touches all of us.答案:36.[E]That comment,says Mothering Justice director Danielle Atkinson,"was meant to shame"37.[H]But the fact that4in10Americans can't come up with$400in an emergency is a commonly cited statistic for good reason:economic instability stretches across race,gender,and geography. 38.[M]According to the General Social Survey,71percent ofrespondents believe the country is spending too little on"assistance to the poor."39.[J]The Frame Works Institute,a research group that focuses on public framing of issues,has studied what sustains stereo types and narratives of poverty in the United Kingdom40.[D]lf these are the central characters of our story about poverty,what layers of perceptions,myths,and realities must we unearth to find meaningful solutions and support?41.[F]How many of us are poor in the U.S.?42.[N]“Poverty has been interchangeable with people of color-specifically black women and”black mothers,"says Atkinson of Mothering Justice.43.[1]Negative images remain of who is living in poverty as well as what is needed to move out of it.44.[E]That comment,says Mothering Justice director Dan-ielle Atkinson,"was meant to shame"45.[L]Those external factors include the difficulties accompanying low-wage work or structural discrimination based on race,gender,or ability.Section CPassage OneQuestions46to50are based on the following passage.Boredom has,paradoxically,become quite interesting to academics lately.In early May.Lon don's Boring Conference celebrated seven years of delighting in dullness.At this event.people floc ked to talks about weather,traffic jams and vending-machine sounds.,among other sleep-indu cing topics What,exactly,is everybody studying?One widely accepted definition of boredom i s"the distasteful experience of wanting,but being unable.to engage in satisfying activity." But how can you quantify a person's boredom level and compare it with someone else’s?In1986,psychologists introduced the Boredom Proneness Scale,designed to measure an individual’s overall tendency to feel bored By contrast,the Mulitidimensional State Boredom scale,developed in2008,measures a person’s feelings of boredom in a given situation. Boredom has been linked to behavior issues including inattentive driving.mindless snacking.excessive drinking,and and addictive gambling.In fact,many of us would choose pain over。
Part I Writing ( 30 minutes)Directions: For this part, )OU are allowed 30 minutes to write on the topic Dlanges in the W ay of Communication. You should write at least 120 words but no more than 180:words.-Part ][ Listening Comprehension (25 minutes)Yilffl: IB"T2020 � 12 � tmfll�i'it�rffl;ft�TWi�IYT.11 '*�ltl!IYT.1J�llli"Wi���ffllft], .R:R d2\V.MJ11M,¥� lftJ , � itt�*••m tfl�-Nm� tium.Part][ Section A Reading Comprehension ( 40 minutes)Directions: In this section, the r e is a passage with ten blanks. You are required to select one weird for each blank from a list of choices given in a 'WOTd bank following the passage. Read the passage through carefully before making )OUT choices. Ea c h choice in the ba nk is identified by a letter. Please mark the rorres ponding letter for each item on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre. You may not use any of the tw>,rds in the bank more than mce .The things people make, and the way they make them, determine how cities grow and decline, and influence how empires rise and fall. So, any disrupt�on to the world's factories 26 . And that disruption is surely coming. Factories are being digitised, filled with new se n sors and new computers to make them quicker, more 27 , and more efficient.Robots are breaking free·from the cages that surround them, learning new skills and new ways of working. And 3D printers have long _______g_ a world where you can make anything, anywhere, from a computerised design ..That vision is �-closer to reality. These forces will lead to cleaner factories, producing better goods at lower prices, personalised to our individual needs and desires .·Humans will be30 many of the,dirty, repetitive, and dangerous jobs that have long been a __l_!_ of factory life.Greater efficiency �-means fewer people can do the same work. Yet factory bosses in many developed countries are worried about a lack of skilled human workers-and see 33 and robots as a solution. But economist Helena Leurent says this period of rapid change in manufacturing is a 34 opportunity to make the world a better place. "Manufacturing is the one system where you have got the biggest source of innovation, the biggest source of economic growth, and the biggest source of great jobs in the past. You can see it changing. That's an opportunity to 35 that system differently, and if we can, it will hdve tremendous significance."A)automationB)concernsC)enormouslyD)fantasticE)fascinated F)featureG)flexibleH)inevitablyI)interactionJ)leaningK)mattersL)moving.M) promisedN)shape0)sparedSection BDirections: In this section, )OU are going to read a passage with ten statements attacluµl to it. Each statement contain/ information given in one of the paragraphs . Identify the paragraph from which the information is derived. You may choose a paragraph more than once. Each paragraph is marked with a letter; Answer the questions by marking the corr es pmding letter on Answer Sheet 2.The History of the Lmch BoxA)It was made of shiny, bright pink plastic with a Little Mermaid sticker on the front, and I carried itwith me nearly every single day. My lunch box was one of my first prized possessions, a proud statement to everyone in my kindergarten: "I love Mermaid-Ariel on my lunch box. "B)That bulky container served me well through my first and second grades, until the live-action versionof 101 Dalmatians hit theaters, and I needed the newest red plastic box with characters like Pongo and Perdita on the front. I know I'm not alone here-I bet you loved your first lunch box, too.C)Lunch boxes have been connecting kids to cartoons and TV shows and super-heroes for decades. But itwasn't always that way. Once upon a time, they weren't even boxes. As schools have changed in the past century, the midday meal container has evolved right along with them.D)Let's start b,a ck at the beginning of the 20th century-the beginning of the lunch box story, really._While there were neighborhood schools in cities and suburbs, one-room schoolhouses were common in rural areas. As grandparents have been saying for generations, kids would travel miles to school in the countryside (often on foot).E)"You had kids in rural areas who couldn't go home from school for lunch, so bringing your lunchwrapped in a cloth' in oiled paper, in a little wooden box or something like that was a .v ery longstanding rural tradition," says Paula Johnson, ·h ead of food history section at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D. C.F)City kids, on the other hand, went home for lunch and came back. Since they rarely carried a-meal,the few metal lunch buckets on the market were mainly for tradesmen and factory workers.G)After World War II, a bunch of changes reshaped school�and lunches. More women joined theworkforce� Small schools c n solidated into larger ones, meaning more students were farther away from home.: And the National School Lunch Act in 1946 made cafeterias much ·m ore common. Still, there wasn't much of a market for lunch containers-yet. Students who carried their lun c h often did so in a re-purposed bucket or tin of so�e kind.H)' And then�verything changed in the year of 1950. You might as well call it.the Year of the Lunch Box,thanks in -large part to a genius move by a Nashville-based manufacturer, Aladdin Industries. The company already made square metal meal containers, the kind workers carried, and some had started to show up·in the hands of school kids.I)But these containers were really durable, lasting years on end. That was great for the consumer, not somuch for the manufacturer. So executives at Aladdin hit on an idea that would harness the newfound popularity of television. They covered lunch boxes with·striking red paint and added a picture of TV and radio cowboy Hopalong Cassidy on the front.J)The company sold 600,000 units the first year. It was a major" Ah-ha!" moment, and a wave of other manufacturers jumped on board to capitalize on new TV shows and movies. "The Partridge Family,the Addams Family, the Six Million Dollar Man, the Bionic Woman-everything that was on television ended up on a lunch box," says Allen Woodall. He's the founder of the Lunch Box Museum inC lumbus, Georgia. "It was a great marketing tool because kids were taking that TV show to schoolwith them, and then when they got home they had them captured back on TV," he says.K)And yes, you read that right: There is a lunch box museum, right near the Chattahoochee River.: Woodall has more than 2,000 items on display. His favorite? The Green.H ornet lunch box, because he used to listen to the radio show back in the 1940s.L)The new trend was also a great example of planned obsolesce n ce, that is, to design a product so that it will soon become unfashionable or impossible to use and will need replacing. Kids would beg for a new lunch box every year to keep up with the newest characters, even if their old lunch box was perfectly_ .usable.M)The metal lunch box craze lasted until the mid-1980s, when plastic took over. Two theories exist as to why. The first-and most likely-is that plastic had simply become cheaper. The second theorypossibly an urban myth-is that concerned parents in several states proposed bans on metal lunch boxes, claiming kids were us i ng them as "weapo n s" to hit one another. There's a lot on the internet about a state-wide ban in Florida, but a few days worth of digging by a historian at the Florida State Historical Society found no such legislation. Either way, the metal lunch box was out.N)The last few decades have brought a new lunch box revolution, of sorts. Plastic boxes changed to lined cloth sacks, and eventually, globalism brought tif fin containers from India and bento boxes from Japan. Even the old metal lunch boxes have regained popularity. "I don't think the heyday (�Jl:,e,J-Jl}J) has passed," says D .J. Jayasekara, owner and founder of lunchbox. com, a retailer in Pasadena, California. "I think it has evolved. The days of the ready-made, 'you stick it in a lunch box and carry it to school' are kind of done."0)Th e introduction of backpacks changed the lunch box scene a bit, he adds. Once kids started carryingbook bags, that bulky traditional lun�h box was hard to fit inside. "But you can't just throw a sandwich in a backpack," Jayasekara says. "It still has to go into a container." That is, in part, why smaller and softer containers have taken off-they fit into backpacks.P)And don't worry-whether it's a plastic bento box or a cloth bag, lunch containers can still easily be covered with popular culture. "We keep pace with the movie industries so we can predict which characters are going to be popular for the coming months," Jayasekara says. "You know, kids are kids."36.Lunch containers were not necessary for school kids in cities.37.Putting TV characters on lunch boxes proved an effective marketing strategy.38.Smaller lunch boxes are preferred because they fit easily.into backpacks.39.Lunch boxes have evolved along with the transformation of schools.40.Around the beginning of the nineteen fifties, some school kids started to use metal meal containers.41.School kids are eager to get a new lunch box every year to stay in fashion.42.Rural kids used to walk a long way to school in the old days.43.The author was proud of using a lunch box in her childhood.44.The most probable reason for the popularity of plastic lunch boxes is that they are less expensive.45.The durability of metal meal containers benefited consumers.Section CDirections: There are 2 passages in this section. Each passage is followed by some questions or un finished statements. For each of them t here 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 46 to 50 are based on the following pas.gge.A growing number of U.S. bike riders are attracted to electric·bikes for convenience, health benefits and their fun factor. Although ebikes first appeared in the 90s, cheaper options and longer-lasting batteries are breathing new,life into the concept.Established bike·companies and startups are embracing ebikes to meet demand. About 34 million ebikes were sold worldwide last year, according to data from eCycleElectric Co n sultants. Most were sold in Europe and China, where the bikes already have exploded in popularity. Recently, the U.S. market has grown to 263,000 bikes, a 25 %gain from the prior year.The industry is benefiting from improved batteries as suppliers over the years developed technology for laptops, smartphones and electric cars. In 2004, the price of batteries used on ebikes fell, spurring European sales.But lower cost options ai'e emerging, too. This month, three U.S. bikeshare companies, Motivate, LimeBike and Spin, announced electric bicycles will be added to their fleets. New York-based Jump Bikes is already operating an electric bikeshare in Washington, D. C., and is launching in San Francisco Thursday. Rides cost $ 2 for 30 minutes.The system works like existing dockless bikeshare systems, where riders unlock bikes through a smartphone app. "This is the beginning of a long-term shift away from regular pedal (1$-�) to electric bikes," said Jump Bikes CEO Ryan Rzepecki. "When people first jump on an ebike, their face lights up. It's exciting and joyful in a way that you don't get from a regular bike."Two years ago, CEO Chris Cocalis of Pivot Cycles, which sells high-end mountain bikes, found that U.S. bike shops weren't interested in stocking ebikes. Some retailers warned Cocalis that they'd drop the brand if it cam e out with an electric bike.Now that sales are taking off, the vast majority of bike dealers are asking Cocalis when he'll make an ebike available. -"There's tremendous opportunity to get a generation of people fot whom suffering_isn't their thing," Cocalis said. "Ebike riders get the enjoyable part of cycling without the mass i ve suffering of climbing huge hills. "46.What do we learn from the passage about ebikes?A)Their health benefits and fun values outweigh their cost.B)They did not catch public attention in the United States until the -1990s.C)They did not become popular until the emergence of improved batteries.D)Their widespread use is attributable to people's environmental awareness.47.What brought about the boost in ebike sales in Europe at the beginning of the century?A)Updated technology of bike manufacture.B)The falling prices of ebike batteries.C)Changed fashion in short-distance travel.D)The rising costs for making electric cars.48.What is the prospect of the bike industry according to Ryan Rzepecki?A)More will be invested in bike battery research.B)The sales of ebikes will increase.C)It will profit from ebike sharing.D)It will make a difference in people's daily lives.49.What prevented Chris Cocalis from developing ebikes sooner?A)Retailers' refusal to deal in ebikes.B)High profits from conventional bikes.C)Users' co n cern about risks of ebike riding.D)His focus on selling costly mountain bikes.50.What makes Chris Cocalis believe there is a greater opportunity for ebike sales?A)The further lowering of ebike prices.B)The public's concern for their health.C)The increasing interest in mountain climbing.D)The younger generation's pursuit of comfortable riding.Passage 1\voQuestions 51 to 55 are based on the following p;mage.The terms "global warming" and "climate change" are used by many, seemingly interchangeably. But do they really mean the same thing?Scientists shaped the history of the terms while attempting ·to accurately describe how humans continue to alter the planet. Later, political strategists adopted the terms to influence public opinion.In 1975, geochemist Wallace Broecker introduced the term "climate change"·in an article published by Sc i ence. In 1979, a National Academy of Sciences report used the term "global warming" to define increases in the Earth's average surface temperature, while "climate change" more broadly referred to the numerous effects of this increase, such as sea-level rise and ocean acidification (it �t,).During the following decades, some industrialists and politicians launched a campaign to sow doubt in the minds of the American public about the ability of fossil-fuel use, deforestation and other human activities to influence the planet's climate.Word use played a critical role in developing that doubt. For example, the language and polls expert Frank Luntz wrote a memo encouraging the use of "climate change" because the phrase sounded less scary than "global warming," reported the Guardian.However, Luntz's recommendation wasn't necessary. A Google Ngram Viewer chart shows that by 1993 climate change was already more commonly used in books than global warming. By the end of the next decade both words were used more frequently, and climate change was used nearly twice as of t en as global warming.NASA used the term "climate change" because it more accurately reflects the wide range of changes to the planet caused by increasing amounts of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.The debate isn't new. A century ago, chemist Svante Arrhenius started one of the first debates over the potential for humans to influence the planet's climate. Arrhenius calculated the capability of carbon dioxide to trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, but other chemists disagreed. Some argued that humans weren't producing enough greenhouse gases, while others claimed the effects would be tiny. Now, ofcourse, we know that whatever you call it, human behavior is warming the planet, with grave consequences ahead.51.Why did politic�ans use the two terms "global warming'' and "climate change"?A)To sway public opinion of the impact of human activities on Earth.B)To more accurately describe the consequences of human activities.C)To win more popular votes in their campaign activities.D)To assure the public of the safety of existing industries.52.As used in a National Academy of Sciences report, the term "climate change" differs from "globalwarming'' in that ___A)it sounds less vagueC)it covers more phenomena B)it looks more scientificD)it is much closer to reality 53.What did industrialists of the late 20th century resort to in order to mislead Americans?A)Made-up survey results.C)False research findings.B)Hired climate experts.D)Deliberate choice of words.54.Why did NASA choose the term "climate change"?A)To obtain more funds.C)For political needs.B)For greater precision.D)To avoid .d ebate.55.What is the author's final co n clusion?A)Global warming is the more accurate term.B)Accuracy of terminology matters in science.C)Human activities have serious effects on Earth.D)Politics interferes with serious scientific debate.Part NTranslation ( 30 minutes) Directions : For this part , you are allowed BO minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English. 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2020年12月英语四级试题及答案四级听力:News report 1A poisonous fish which has a sting strong enough to kill a human is invading the Mediterranean, warned scientists. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (UICN) has raised concerns after the poisonous fish was spotted in the waters around Turkey, Cyprus and the eastern Mediterranean. Native to the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, the potentially deadly fish has poisonous hooks and a painful sting capable of killing people. Although fatalities are rare, the stings can cause extreme pain and stop people breathing. The fish, often known as Devil Firefish, is a highly invasive species. And environmentalists fear its arrival could endanger other types of marine life. After being spotted in the Mediterranean, a marine scientist says, “The fish is spreading, and that’s a cause for concern.”Q1: What is reported in the news?Q2: What is the environmentalists’ concern of the spread of Devil Firefish in the Mediterranean?四级听力:News report 2【Q3】Almost half the centre of Paris will be accessible only by foot or bicycle this Sunday to mark World Car-Free Day. 【Q4】This is inresponse to rising air pollution that made Paris the most polluted city in the world for a brief time. Mayor Anne Hidalgo promoted the first World Car Free Day last year. Hidalgo also has supported a Paris Breathes Day. On the first Sunday of every month, Paris clears traffic from eight lanes of the main road. About 400 miles of streets will beclosed to cars. It is expected to bring significant reduction in pollution levels. “Last year’s car-free day showed a 40% drop in pollution levels in some parts of the city, according to an independent air pollution monitor”, reports the Guardian, “and some levels dropped by 50% in the city centre.”Q3: What will happen on World Car Free Day in Paris?Q4: What motivated the mayor of Paris to promote the first World Car Free Day in her city?四级听力:News report 3A Philippine fisherman was feeling down on his luck when a house fire forced him to clear out his possessions and change locations. Then, a good luck charm that he had kept under his bed changed his life.The unidentified man had fished out a giant pearl from the ocean when his anchor got stuck on the rock while sailing off a coastal island in the Philippines ten years ago.When he was forced to sell it, the shocked tourist agent at Puerto Princesca told him that the 77-pound giant pearl that he had kept hidden in his rundown wooden house was the biggest pearl in the world, which was valued at £76 million.The pearl of Allah, which is currently on display in a New York museum, only weighs 14 pounds. That is five times smaller than the pearl that the fisherman just handed in.The monstrous pearl, measured at 1 foot wide and 2.2 feet long, is going to be verified by local experts and international authorities before hopefully going on display to attract more tourists in the little town.Q5: What happened to the Philippine fisherman one day?Q6: What was the fisherman forced to do?Q7: What did the fisherman learn from the tourist agent?四级-Conversation 1WOMAN: Mr. Smith, It’s a pleasure meeting you!Man: Nice to meet you, too. What can I do for you?WOMAN: Well, I’m here to show you what our firm can do foryou. Astro Consultants has branches in over fifty countries, offering different business services. We’re a global company with 75 years of history. And our clients include some of the world’s largest companies.MAN: Thank you, Mrs. Houston. I know Astro Consultants is a famous company. But you said you would show me what you could do for me. Well. What exactly can your firm do for my company?WOMAN: We advise businesses on all matters, from market analysis to legal issues. Anything a business like yours could meet. Our firm offers expert advice. Could I ask you, Mr. Smith, to tell me a little about your company and the challenges you face? That way, I could better respond as to how we can help you.Man: OK, sure. This is a family business started by my grandfather in 1950. We employ just over 100 people. We manufacture an export stone for buildings and other constructions. Our clients usually want a special kind of stone cut in a special design. And that’s what we do in our factory. Our main challenge is that our national currency is rising, and we’re losing competitive advantages to st one produces in India. WOMAN: I see. That’s very interesting. I will suggest that you let us first conduct a financial analysis of your company, together with the analysis of your competitors in India. That way, we could offer the best advice on different ways forward for you.Question 8-11 are based on the conversation you have just heard.Q8: What do we learn about the woman’s company?Q9: What does the man say about his own company?Q10: What is the main problem with the man’s company?Q11: What does the woman suggest doing to help the man’s company?四级-Conversation 2Woman: Wow, congratulations, Simon! The place looks absolutely amazing!Man: Really? You think so?W: Of course. I love it. It looks like you had a professional interior designer. But yo u didn’t, did you?M: No. I did it all by myself with a little help from my brother, Greg. He’s actually in the construction business, which was really helpful.W: Honestly, I’m impressed! I know I can probably repaint the walls in my house over a weekend or something, but not a full renovation. Where did you get your ideas? I wouldn’t know where to start.M: Well, for a while now, I’ve been regularly buying home design magazines. Every now and then, I’d saved the pictures I liked. Believe it or not, I have a full notebook of magazine pages. Since by overall style was quite minimal, I thought and hoped a whole renovation wouldn’t be too difficult. And sure enough, with Greg’s help, it was very achievable.W: Wasn’t it expensive? I have imagined a project lik e this could be. M: Actually, it was surprisingly affordable. I managed to sell a lot of my old furniture and put that extra money towards the new material. Greg was also able to get some discount materials from a recent project he was working on as well.W: Great! If you don’t mind, I’d like to pick your brain a bit more. Johansson and I are thinking of renovating our sitting room, not the whole house, not yet anyway. And we’d love to get some inspiration from your experience. Are you free to come over for a coffee early next week?Q12: What do we learn about the woman from the conversation?Q13: Where did the man get his ideas for the project?Q14: What did the man say about the project he recently completed? Q15: Why does the woman invite the man to her house next week?四级-Section CPassage 1Removing foreign objects from ears and noses costs England almost £3m a year, a study suggests.[Q16] Children were responsible for the vast majority of cases - 95% of objects removed from noses and 85% from ears. Every year, an average of 1,218 nose and 2,479 ear removals took place between 2010 and 2016. According to England's Hospital Episode Statistics, children aged one to four were the most likely to need help from doctors for a foreign object in their nose. Five to nine year olds come to the hospital with something in their ear the most. Jewelry items accounted for up to 40% of cases in both the ears and noses of children. Paper and plastic toys were the items removed next most from noses. Cotton buds and pencils were also found in ears.[Q17]According to the study, the occurrence of foreign objects in children is generally attributed to curiosity. Children have an impulse to explore their noses and ears. This results in the accidental entry of foreign objects. [Q18] Any ear, nose and throat surgeon has many weird stories about wonderful objects found in the noses and ears of children and adults. Batteries can pose a particular danger. In all cases, prevention is better than cure. This is why many toys contain warnings about small parts. Recognizing problems early and seeking medical attention is important.Q16: What does England spend an annual £3m on?Q17: What do we learn from England's Hospital Episode Statistics?Q18: What is generally believed to account for children putting things in their ears or noses?Section CPassage 2Good morning, I’d like to talk to you about my charity ReBicycle. But before that, let me introduce someone. This is Leila Rahimi.She was so scared when she first moved to New Zealand that she struggled to leave the house and would spend days working up the courage to walk to the supermarket for basic supplies.After a few months of being quite down and unhappy, she was invited to join a local bike club. At this time, ReBicycle got involved and gave Leila a second-hand bicycle.[Q19] In weeks, her depression had begun to ease as she cycled. The bicycle totally changed her life, giving her hope and a true feeling of freedom.To date, ReBicycle has donated more than 200 bikes to those in need, and is now expanding bike-riding lessons as demand soars.[Q20]With a bike, you can travel farther but for almost no cost. The three hours a day that used to spend on walking to and from English language lessons has been reduced to just one hour. Our bike-riding lessons are so successful that we are urgently looking for more volunteers. Learning to ride a bike is almost always more difficult as an adult, and this can take days and weeks, rather than hours. So, if any of you have some free time during the weekend, please come join us at ReBicycle and make a difference in someone’s life.Q19: What did ReBicycle do to help Leila Rahimi?Q20: What is ReBicycle doing to help those in need?Q21: What do we learn from the passage about the ReBicycle?Passage 3Thanks to the International Space Station we know quite a bit about the effects of low gravity on the human body, but NASA scientists want to learn more. To that end, they have been studying how other species deal with low gravity, specifically focusing on miceThe results are both interesting and humorous.The scientists first send some mice in a specially designed cage to the International Space Station. The cage allowed them to study the behavior of the mice remotely from Earth via video. As you noticed in the video, the mice definitely seem uncomfortable at the beginning of the experiment. They move around clumsily, drifting within the small confines of the cage and do their best to figure out which way is up, but without success. (23) However, it’s not long before the mice begin to catch on. They adapt remarkably well to their new environment and even using the lack of gravity to their advantage as they push themselves around the cage.That’s when thin gs really get wild. The 11th day of the experiment shows the mice are not just dealing with the gravity change but actually seem to be enjoying it. (24) Several of the mice are observed running around the cage walls.The scientists wanted to see whether the mice would continue doing the same kinds of activities they were observed doing on Earth. The study showed that the mice kept much of their routines intact, including cleaning themselves and eating when hungry. (25)Q22: What do Nasa scientists want to learn about?Q23 : What does the passage say about the mice at the beginning of the experiment?Q24: What was observed about the mice on the 11th day of the experiment?Q25: What did the scientists find about the mice from theexperiment?答案新闻1.A. A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.2.C. It could pose a threat to other marine species.3.B. About half of its city center will be closed to ears.4.A. The rising air pollution in Paris.5.B. His house was burnt down in a fire.6.D. Sell the pearl he had kept for years.7.C. His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.长对话8.A. It boasts a fairly long history.9.C. It is a family business.10. D. Loss of competitive edge.11. A. Conducting a financial analysis for it.12. D. She is really impressed by the man’s house.13. B. From home design magazines.14. C. The cost was affordable.15. B. She wants him to share his renovation experience with her.短文16. D. Removing objects from patients' noses and ears.17. C. Five- to nine-year-olds are the most likely to put things in theirears.18. D. They are curious about these body parts.19. B. It gave her a used bicycle.20. A. Expanding bike-riding lessons.21. B. It is a charity organization.22. D How animals deal with lack of gravity23. A. They were not used to the low-gravity environment.24. C. They already felt at home in the new environment.25. B. They behaved as if they were on Earth.听力解析本次听力考试文章来源于每日邮报,卫报,Good News Network,BBC 官网等报纸或网站。
2020年12月大学英语四级考试真题(一)Part I Writing(30 minutes)Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write on the topic Changes in the Way of Education. You should write at least 120 words but no more than 180 words.Part II Listening Comprehension(25 minutes)Section ADirections: In this section, you will hear three news reports. At the end ofeach news report,you will hear two or three questions. Both the news report and the questions will be spoken onlyonce. 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 1 with a single line through the centre.Questions 1 and 2 are based on the news report you have just heard.1. A) Many people have been attacked by Devil Firefish.B) The Mediterranean is a natural habitat of Devil Firefish.C) Invasive species are driving away certain native species.D) A deadly fish has been spotted in the Mediterranean waters.2. A) It could badly pollute the surrounding waters.B) It could pose a threat to other marine species.C) It could disrupt the food chains there.D) It could add to greenhouse emissions.Questions 3 and 4 are based on the news report you have just heard.3.A) Cars will not be allowed to enter the city.B)Pedestrians will have free access to the city.C) About half of its city center will be closed to cars.D)Buses will be the only vehicles allowed on its streets.4.A)The unbearable traffic noise.B) The worsening global warming.C) The ever-growing cost of petrol.D) The rising air pollution in Paris.Questions 5 to 7 are based on the news report you have just heard.5.A)His house was burnt down in a fire.B) Many of his possessions were stolen.6.A) Change his fishing locations.B) Find a job in a travel agency.C) His good luck charm sank into the sea.D) His fishing boat got wrecked on a rock.C)Sell the pearl he had kept for years.D) Spend a few nights on a small island.7.A) His pearl could be displayed in a museum.B)His monstrous pearl was extremely valuable.C) The largest pearl in the world weighs 14 pounds.D)A New York museum has the world's biggest pearl.Section BDirections: In this section , you will hear two long conversations. At the end ofeach conversation , you willhear four 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). Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.Questions 8 to 11 are based on the conversation you have just heard.8. A) It boasts a fairly long history.B) It has over 50 business partners.9. A) It was started by his father.B) It has about 50 employees.10.A)Outdated product design.B) Loss of competitive edge.C) It has 75 offices around the world.D) It produces construction materials.C) It is over 100 years old.D) It is a family business.C) Shortage of raw material supply.D)Legal disputes in many countries.11.A) Introducing innovative marketing strategies.B) Seeking new ways to increase its exports.C) Providing training for its staff members.D)Conducting a financial analysis for it.Questions 12 to 15 are based on the conversation you have just heard.12. A) She is a real expert at house decorations.B) She is really impressed by the man's house.C) She is well informed about the design business.D) She is attracted by the color of the sitting room.13. A)From a construction businessman.B)From his younger brother Greg.14. A) The cost was affordable.B) The style was fashionable.C) From home design magazines.D)From a professional interior designer.C) The effort was worthwhile.D) The effect was unexpected.15. A) She'd like him to talk with Jonathan about a new project.B) She'd like to show him around her newly-renovated house.C) She wants to discuss the house decoration budget with him.D) She wants him to share his renovation experience with her.Section CDirections: In this section, you will hear three passages. At the end ofeach passage, you will hear three or four questions. Both the passage and the questions will be spoken onlyonce. 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 1 with a single line through the centre.Questions 16 to 18 are based on the passage you have just heard.16.A)Paying hospital bills for emergency cases.B)Doing research on ear, nose and throat diseases.C) Removing objects from patients' noses and ears.D) Providing routine care for small children.17.A)Children aged one to four are often more curious than older children.B)Five- to nine-year-olds are the most likely to put things in their ears.C) Many children like to put foreign objects in their mouths.D)Many children like to smell things they find or play with.四级2020年12月 218.A)They want to attract attention.B) They tend to act out of impulse.C) They are unaware of the potential risks.D) They are curious about these body parts.Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage you have just heard.19. A) It gave her a used bicycle.B)It paid for her English lessons.20. A) Expanding bike-riding lessons.B) Providing free public transport.21. A) It is a sports club.B) It is a language school.C) It delivered her daily necessities.D) It provided her with physical therapy.C) Offering walking tours to visitors.D)Asking local people for donations.C) It is a counseling center.D) It is a charity organization.Questions 22 to 25 are based on the passage you have just heard.22. A) How animals deal with lack of gravity.B) How mice interact in a new environment.C) How low gravity affects the human body.D) How mice imitate human behavior in space.23. A) They found the space in the cage too small to stay in.B) They found it difficult to figure out where they were.C)They were not used to the low-gravity environment.D) They were not sensitive to the changed environment.24.A) They continued to behave as they did in the beginning.B) They already felt at home in the new environment.C) They had found a lot more activities to engage in.D)They tried everything possible to escape from the cage.25. A) They changed their routines in space.B) They began to eat less after some time.C) They behaved as if they were on Earth.D) They repeated their activities every day.Part III Reading Comprehension(40 minutes)Section ADirections: In this section, there is a passage with ten blanks. You are required to select one word for each blank from a list ofchoices given in a word bank following the passage.Read the passage through carefully before making your choices. Each choice in the bank is identified bya letter. Please mark the corresponding letter for each item on Answer Sheet 2 with a single line through the centre. You may not use any of the words in the bank more than once.Trust is fundamental to life. If you can't trust anything, life becomes intolerable. You can't have relationships without trust, let alone good ones.In the workplace, too,trust is26_.An organization without trust will be full of fear and 27If you work for a boss who doesn't trust their employees to do things right, you'll have a 28t ime. They'll be checking up on you all the time, correcting “mistakes”and29 reminding you to do this or that. Colleagues who don't trust one another will need to spend more time 30their backs than doing any useful work.Organizations are always trying to cut costs. Think of all the additional tasks caused by lack of trust. Audit (审计)departments only exist because of it.Companies keep large volumes of31_because they don't trust their suppliers, their contractors or their customers. Probably more than half of alladministrative work is only there because of an ever-existing sense that “you can't trust anyone these days.”If even a small part of such valueless work could be _32,the savings would run into millions of dollars.All this is extra work we33onto ourselves because we don't trust people-the checking, following through, doing things ourselves because we don't believe others will do them34-or at all. If we took all thataway, how much extra time would we suddenly find in our life? How much of our work35would disappear?A)constantlyB)credibleC)essentialD)exploringE)gather F)loadG)miserableH)pressureI)properlyJ)recordsK)removedL)stacksM)suspicionN)trackedO)watchingSection BDirections:In this section, you are going to read a passage with ten statements attached to it. Each statement contains information given in one of the paragraphs. Identify the paragraph from which the information is derived. You may choose a paragraph more than once. Each paragraph is marked with a letter. Answer the questions by marking the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 2.The Place Where the Poor Once ThrivedA) This is the land of opportunity. If that weren't already implied by the landscape-rolling green hills, palm trees, sun-kissed flowers-then it's evident in the many stories of people who grew up poor in these sleepy neighborhoods and rose to enormous success. People like Tri Tran, who fled Vietnam on a boat in 1986, showed up in San Jose with nothing, made it to MIT, and then founded the food-delivery start-up Munchery, which is valued at $ 300 million.B) Indeed, data suggests that this is one of the best places to grow up poor in America. A child born in the early 1980s into a low-income family in San Jose had a 12.9 percent chance of becoming a high earner as an adult, according to a landmark study released in 2014 by the economist Raj Chetty and his colleagues from Harvard and Berkeley.That number-12.9 percent-may not seem remarkable, but it was:Kids in San Jose whose families fell in the bottom quintile(五分位数)of income nationally had the best shot in the country at reaching the top quintile.C) By contrast, just 4. 4 percent of poor kids in Charlotte moved up to the top; in Detroit the figure was 5.5 percent. San Jose had social mobility comparable to Denmark's and Canada's and higher than other progressive cities such as Boston and Minneapolis.D)The reasons kids in San Jose performed so well might seem obvious. Some of the world's most innovative companies are located here, providing opportunities such as the one seized by a 12-year-old Mountain View resident named Steve Jobs when he called William Hewlett to ask for spare parts and subsequently received a summer job. This is a city of immigrants-38 percent of the city's population today is foreign-born-and immigrants and their children have historically experienced significant upward mobility in America. The city has long had a large foreign-born population (26.5 percent in 1990), leading to broader diversity, which, the Harvard and Berkeley economists say, is a good predictor of mobility.E) Indeed, the streets of San Jose seem, in some ways, to embody the best of America. It's possible to drive in a matter of minutes from sleek(光亮的)office towers near the airport where people pitch ideas to investors, to single-family homes with orange trees in their yards, or to a Vietnamese mall. The libraries here offer programs in 17 languages, and there are areas filled with small businesses owned by Vietnamese immigrants, Mexican immigrants, Korean immigrants, and Filipino immigrants, to name a few.F) But researchers aren't sure exactly why poor kids in San Jose did so well. The city has a low prevalence of children growing up in single-parent families, and a low level of concentrated poverty, both factors thatusually mean a city allows for good intergenerational mobility. But San Jose also performs poorly on some of the measures correlated with good mobility. It is one of the most unequal places out of the 741 that the researchers measured,and it has high degrees of racial and economic segregation (隔离).Its schools underperform based on how much money there is in the area, said Ben Scuderi, a predoctoral fellow at the Equality of Opportunity Project at Harvard, which uses big data to study how to improve economic opportunities for low-income children. “There's a lot going on here which we don't totally understand,”he said. “It's interesting, because it kind of defies our expectations.”G) The Chetty data shows that neighborhoods and places mattered for children born in the San Jose area of the 1980s. Whether the city still allows for upward mobility of poor kids today, though, is up for debate. Some of the indicators such as income inequality, measured by the Equality of Opportunity Project for the year 2000, have only worsened in the past 16 years.H)Some San Jose residents say that as inequality has grown in recent years, upward mobility has become much more difficult to achieve. As Silicon Valley has become home to more successful companies, the flood of people to the area has caused housing prices to skyrocket. By most measures, San Jose is no longer a place where low-income, or even middle-income families, can afford to live. Rents in San Jose grew 42.6 percent between 2006 and 2014, which was the largest increase in the country during that time period. The city has a growing homelessness problem, which it tried to address by shutting down “The Jungle,”one of the largest homeless encampments(临时住地)in the nation,in 2014. Inequality is extreme. The Human Development Index-a measure of life expectancy, education and per capita(人均的)income-gives East San Jose a score of 4.85 out of 10,while nearby Cupertino, where Apple's headquarters sits, receives a 9.26. San Jose used to have a happy mix of factors-cheap housing, closeness to a rapidly developing industry, tightly-knit immigrant communities-that together opened up the possibility of prosperity for even its poorest residents. But in recent years, housing prices have skyrocketed, the region's rich and poor have segregated,and middle-class jobs have disappeared. Given this, the future for the region's poor doesn't look nearly as bright as it once did.I) Leaders in San Jose are determined to make sure that the city regains its status as a place where even poor kids can access the resources to succeed. With Silicon Valley in its backyard, it certainly has the chance to do so.“I think there is a broad consciousness in the Valley that we can do better than to leave thousands of our neighbors behind through a period of extraordinary success,”San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said. J)But in today's America-a land of rising inequality,increasing segregation,and stagnating(不增长的)middle-class wages-can the San Jose region really once again become a place of opportunity?K) The idea that those at the bottom can rise to the top is central to America's ideas about itself. That such mobility has become more difficult in San Jose raises questions about:the endurance of that foundational belief. After all, if the one-time land of opportunity can't be fixed, what does that say for the rest of America?36. According to some people living in San Jose, it has become much harder for the poor to get ahead due to the increased inequality.37.In American history, immigrants used to have a good chance to move upward in society.38. If the problems of San Jose can't be solved, one of America's fundamental beliefs about itself can be shaken.39. San Jose was among the best cities in America for poor kids to move up the social ladder..40. Whether poor kids in San Jose today still have the chance to move upward is questionable.41. San Jose's officials are resolved to give poor kids access to the resources necessary for success in life.42. San Jose appears to manifest some of the best features of America.43. As far as social mobility is concerned, San Jose beat many other progressive cities in America.44. Due to some changes like increases in housing prices inSan Jose,the prospects for its poor people have dimmed.45.Researchers do not have a clear idea why poor children in San Jose achieved such great success several decades ago.Section CDirections: 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 46 to 50 are based on the following passage.Three children in every classroom have a diagnosable mental health condition.Half of these are behavioural disorders, while one third are emotional disorders such as stress,anxiety and depression, which often become outwardly apparent through self-harm. There was an astonishing 52 per cent jump in hospital admissions for children and young people who had harmed themselves between 2009 and 2015.Schools and teachers have consistently reported the scale of the problem since 2009. Last year, over half of teachers reported that more of their pupils experience mental health problems than in the past. But teachers also consistently report how ill-equipped they feel to meet pupils' mental health needs, and often cite a lack of training,expertise and support from the National Health Service(英国国家医疗服务体系).Part of the reason for the increased pressure on schools is that there are now fewer 'early intervention(干预)'and low-level mental health services based in the community. Cuts to local authority budgets since 2010 have resulted in a significant decline of these services, despite strong evidence of their effectiveness in preventing crises further down the line.The only way to break the pressures on both mental health services and schools is to reinvest in early intervention services inside schools.There are strong arguments for why schools are best placed to provide mental health services. Schools see young people more than any other service, which gives them a unique ability to get to hard-to-reach children and young people and build meaningful relationships with them over time. Recent studies have shown that children and young people largely prefer to see a counsellor in school rather than in an outside environment. Young people have reported that for low-level conditions such as stress and anxiety, a clinical setting can sometimes be daunting(令人却步的).There are already examples of innovative schools which combine mental health and wellbeing provision with a strong academic curriculum. This will, though, require a huge cultural shift. Politicians, policymakers, commissioners and school leaders must be brave enough to make the leap towards reimagining schools as providers of health as well as education services.46. What are teachers complaining about?A)There are too many students requiring special attention.B)They are under too much stress counselling needy students.C)Schools are inadequately equipped to implement any intervention.D) They lack the necessary resources to address pupils' mental problems.47. What do we learn from the passage about community health services in Britain?A) They have deteriorated due to budget cuts.B) They facilitate local residents' everyday lives.C) They prove ineffective in helping mental patients.D) They cover preventative care for the local residents.48. Where does the author suggest mental health services be placed?A)At home.B)At school.C)In hospitals.D) In communities.49. What do we learn from the recent studies?A) Students prefer to rely on peers to relieve stress and anxiety.B) Young people are keen on building meaningful relationships.C) Students are more comfortable seeking counselling in school.D)Young people benefit from various kinds of outdoor activities.50.What does the author mean by a cultural shift (Line 2,Para.6)?A) Simplification of schools' academic curriculums.B)Parents' involvement in schools' policy-making.C) A change in teachers' attitudes to mental health.D) A change in the conception of what schools are.Passage TwoQuestions 51 to 55 are based on the following passage.Picture this: You're at a movie theater food stand loading up on snacks. You have a choice of a small, medium or large soda. The small is $ 3.50 and the large is $ 5.50. It's a tough decision: The small size may not last you through the whole movie, but $ 5.50 for some sugary drink seems ridiculous. But there's a third option, a medium soda for $5.25. Medium may be the perfect amount of soda for you, but the large is only a quarter more. If you're like most people, you end up buying the large (and taking a bathroom break midshow).If you're wondering who would buy the medium soda, the answer is almost no one. In fact, there's a good chance the marketing department purposely priced the medium soda as a decoy(诱饵),making you more likely to buy the large soda rather than the small.I have written about this peculiarity in human nature before with my friend Dan Ariely, who studied this phenomenon extensively after noticing pricing for subscriptions(订阅)to The Economist.The digital subscription was $ 59, the print subscription was $ 125, and the print plus digital subscription was also $125. No one in their right mind would buy the print subscription when you could get digital as well for the same price, so why was it even an option? Ariely ran an experiment and found that when only the two “real”choices were offered, more people chose the less-expensive digital subscription. But the addition of the bad option made people much more likely to choose the more expensive print plus digital option.Brain scientists call this effect “asymmetric dominance”and it means that people gravitate toward the choice nearest a clearly inferior option. Marketing professors call it the decoy effect, which is certainly easier to remember.Lucky for consumers, almost no one in the business community understands it.The decoy effect works because of the way our brains assign value when making choices. Value is almost never absolute; rather, we decide an object's value relative to our other choices. If more options are introduced, the value equation changes.51.Why does the author ask us to imagine buying food in the movie theater?A)To illustrate people's peculiar shopping behavior.B) To illustrate the increasing variety of snacks there.C) To show how hard it can be to choose a drink there.D) To show how popular snacks are among movie fans.52. Why is the medium soda priced the way it is?A) To attract more customers to buy it.B) To show the price matches the amount.C) To ensure customers drink the right amount of soda.D) To make customers believe they are getting a bargain.53. What do we learn from Dan Ariely's experiment?A) Lower-priced goods attract more customers.B) The Economist's promotional strategy works.C) The Economist's print edition turns out to sell the best.D)More readers choose the digital over the print edition.54.For what purpose is “the bad option”(Line 7, Para.3) added?A) To cater to the peculiar needs of some customers.B) To help customers to make morerational choices.C) To trap customers into buying the more pricey item.D)To provide customers with a greater variety of goods.55. How do we assess the value of a commodity, according to the passage?A) By considering its usefulness.B)By comparing it with other choices.C) By taking its quality into account.D) By examining its value equation.Part IV Translation(30 minutes)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.生活在中国不同地区的人们饮食多种多样。
2020年12月英语四级翻译练习试题及解析:中国铁
路
翻译题目
中国的铁路建设始于清朝(the Qing Dynasty)末年。
自新中国成
立后,中国的铁路得到了飞速发展。
当前中国拥有仅次于美国和俄罗
斯的世界第三大铁路网。
在中国,铁路是国家重要的基翅设施(infrastructure)、大众化的交通工具。
每逢寒暑假、节假日,总会
出现“一票难求”的现象。
据报道,中国将优先发展西部地区,特别
是贫困地区的铁路,引导当地人民走向致富之路。
表达难点
1.第2句“中国的铁路得到了飞速发展”如果直译为Chinese railway has developed rapidly则显平淡,此处可用see表示“(时
代等)以…为特点,历经……”的意义,将其译为Chinese railway seen rapid development,这样译文更生动地道。
2.第3句中的定语“仅次于美国和俄罗斯的”较长,故将其处理
成后置定语,表达为only second to the United States and Russia.
3.第5句“总会出现‘一票难求’的现象”是汉语中的无主语句,其常见的处理方式有:增添主语;译为被动语态;译成there be结抅;
使用形式主语it。
结合该句,可使用形式主语it,译成it is
difficult to get a train ticket;或并充出主语译为Chinese travelers find it difficult to…,“一票难求”可用find it difficult to do sth.句型来表达。
4.最后一句中的“优先发展……”和“引导当地人民走向致富之路”在原文中是并列结构,但实际上后者表目的,故将其译作目的状
语to lead to wealth for local people,“引导走向致富之路”用
短语lead to wealth比直译为lead people to the path of wealth 更简洁地道。
参考译文
Railway construction in China began in the late Qing Dynasty. Chinese railway has seen rapid development since the founding of New China. Currently, China has the world's third largest railway network only second to the United State and Russia. Railway is an important infrastructure of the country and a popular traffic tool. During the summer and winter vacations, and national holidays, Chinese travellers always find it difficult to get a train ticket. It is reported that China will prioritize railway development in western regions, particular the areas, to lead to wealth for local people.。