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1.必修三Unit1 Festivals and celebrations节日和庆典Festivals and celebrations of all kinds have been held everywhere since ancient times. 自古以来，世界各地就有各种各样的节日和庆典。
Most ancient festivals would celebrate the end of cold weather, planting in spring and harvest in autumn. 最古老的节日总是庆祝严寒的结束、春季的种植和秋天的收割。
Sometimes celebrate would be held after hunters had caught animals. 有时，在猎人捕获猎物后，也举行庆祝活动。
At that time people would starve if food was difficult to find, especially during the cold winter months. 在那个时代，如果食物难以找到，特别是在寒冷的冬月，人们会挨饿。
Today’s festivals have many origins ,some religious, some seasonal, and some for special people or events. 现在的节日有很多由来，一些是宗教上的，一些是季节性的，一些是纪念特殊的人和事件的。
Festivals of the Dead亡灵节Some festivals are held to honour the dead or to satisfy the ancestors, who might return either to help or to do harm. 有些节日，是为了纪念死者，或使祖先得到满足，因为祖先们有可能回到世上（给人们）提供帮助，也有可能带来危害。
Festivals and celebrations of all kinds have heen held everywhere since ancient times.Most ancient festivals would celebrate the end of cold weatherplanting in spring and harvest in autumn.Sometimes celebrations would be held after hunters had caught animals.At that time people would starve if food was difficult to findespecially during the cold winter months.Today’s festivals have many originssome religioussome seasonaland some for special people or events.有各种各样的节日和庆典上到处是。
最古老的节日是庆祝寒冷天气的结束，在春季和秋季收获种植。
有时会举行庆祝活动后，猎人抓住了动物。
那时候人们会饿死，如果食物难以找到，尤其是在寒冷的冬季。
今天的节日有许多来源，一些宗教，一些季节性的，和一些特别的人或事件。
Festivals of the Dead死者的节日Some festivals are held to honour the dead or to satisfy the ancestorswho might return either to help or to do harm.For the Japanese festival Obonpeople should go to clean graves and light incense in memory of their ancestors.They also light lamps and play music because they think that this willlead the ancestors back to earth.In Mexicopeople eat food in the shape of skulls and cakes with “bones” on them.They offer foodflowers and gifts to the dead.The Western holidays Halloween also had its origin in old beliefs about the return of the spirits of dead people.It is now a children’s festivalwhen they can dress up and go to their neighbour’s homes to ask for sweets.If the neighbours do not give any sweetsthe children might play a trick on them.有些节日是为了纪念死者或取悦祖先，也就是那些可能回来帮助或伤害。
1.必修三Unit1 Festivals and celebrations节日和庆典Festivals and celebrations of all kinds have been held everywhere since ancient times. 自古以来，世界各地就有各种各样的节日和庆典。
Most ancient festivals would celebrate the end of cold weather, planting in spring and harvest in autumn. 最古老的节日总是庆祝严寒的结束、春季的种植和秋天的收割。
Sometimes celebrate would be held after hunters had caught animals. 有时，在猎人捕获猎物后，也举行庆祝活动。
At that time people would starve if food was difficult to find, especially during the cold winter months. 在那个时代，如果食物难以找到，特别是在寒冷的冬月，人们会挨饿。
Today’s festivals have many origins ,some religious, some seasonal, and some for special people or events. 现在的节日有很多由来，一些是宗教上的，一些是季节性的，一些是纪念特殊的人和事件的。
Festivals of the Dead亡灵节Some festivals are held to honour the dead or to satisfy the ancestors, who might return either to help or to do harm. 有些节日，是为了纪念死者，或使祖先得到满足，因为祖先们有可能回到世上（给人们）提供帮助，也有可能带来危害。
2024届湖北省武汉市高三下学期4月调研（二模）英语试题一、听力选择题1．What is the man busy with?A．A visit.B．A project.C．A video.2．What do the speakers plan to do tomorrow?A．Go camping.B．Do some shopping.C．Find a blanket. 3．Where are the speakers going to?A．A station.B．Another country.C．Their hometown. 4．What does the woman think of Jimmy?A．Silent.B．Caring.C．Hard-working. 5．What are the speakers talking about?A．The new laws.B．A healthy lifestyle.C．Profitable industries.听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
6．What is the probable relationship between the speakers?A．Mother and son.B．Brother and sister.C．Husband and wife. 7．Why does the man apologize?A．For missing a chance.B．For being late.C．For doing Lisa a damage.听下面一段较长对话，完成下面小题。
8．Who is the woman expressing thanks to?A．The man.B．The fans.C．The sponsor.9．What is probably the woman?A．An online celebrity.B．A travel enthusiast.C．A magazine editor.听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
Unit 1 Festivals around the worldFESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONSFestivals and celebrations of all kinds have been held everywhere since ancient times. Most ancient festivals would celebrate the end of cold weather, planting in spring and harvest in autumn. Sometimes celebrations would be held after hunters had caught animals. At that time people would starve if food was difficult to find, especially during the cold winter months. Today’s festivals have many origins, some religious, some seasonal, and some for special people or events.Festivals of the deadSome festivals are held to honour the dead or to satisfy the ancestors, who might return either to help or to do harm. For the Japanese festival Obon, people should go to clean graves and light incense in memory of their ancestors. They also light lamps and play music because they think that will lead the ancestors back to earth. In Mexico, people celebrate the Day of the Dead in early November. On this important feast day, people eat food in the shape of skulls and cakes with “bones”on them. They offer food, flowers and gifts to the dead. The Western holiday Halloween also had its origin in old beliefs about the return of the spirits of dead people. It is now a children’s festival, when they can dress up and go to their neighbours’ homes to ask for sweets. If the neighbours do not give any sweets, the children might play a trick on them.Festivals to Honour PeopleFestivals can also be held to honour famous people. The Dragon Boat Festival in China honours the famous ancient poet, Qu Yuan. In the USA, Columbus Day is in memory of the arrival of Christopher Columbus inthe New World. India has a national festival on October 2 to honour Mohandas Gandhi, the leader who helped gain India’s independence from Britain.Harvest FestivalsHarvest and Thanksgiving festivals can be very happy events. People are grateful because their food is gathered for the winter and the agricultural work is over. In European countries, people will usually decorate churches and town halls with flowers and fruit, and will get together to。
英语作文英国特色Here is an essay on the topic "The Distinctive Features of Britain" with a word count exceeding 1000 words, written in English without any additional title or punctuation marks.Britain is a country renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and unique traditions. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the bustling cities, the United Kingdom is a land that captivates visitors with its distinctive charm. In this essay, we will explore some of the most iconic and defining features that make Britain truly special.One of the most recognizable symbols of Britain is its monarchy. The British royal family has a long and storied history, with the current reigning monarch being Queen Elizabeth II. The pomp and circumstance surrounding the monarchy, from the grand royal weddings to the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony, are a source of great pride and fascination for both the British people and the world at large. The royal residences, such as Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, are architectural marvels that offer a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the British monarchy.Another quintessential aspect of British culture is its love for tea. TheBritish have elevated the humble tea-drinking ritual into an art form, with elaborate tea ceremonies, delicate bone china cups, and the accompanying array of finger sandwiches and scones. The ritual of afternoon tea is a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations and is often seen as a symbol of British sophistication and refinement.Britain is also renowned for its rich literary heritage. From the works of William Shakespeare to the novels of Jane Austen, the country has produced some of the most celebrated and influential writers in the world. The birthplaces and homes of these literary giants, such as Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Jane Austen Centre in Bath, have become popular tourist destinations, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the worlds created by these literary giants.Another iconic aspect of British culture is its music. The UK has been at the forefront of musical innovation, giving birth to genres such as rock, punk, and heavy metal. From the Beatles to the Rolling Stones, British bands have left an indelible mark on the global music scene. The country's vibrant live music scene, with its array of festivals and intimate venues, continues to attract music lovers from around the world.Britain's love for sports is also a defining feature of its culture. Thecountry is home to some of the most prestigious sporting events, such as Wimbledon, the FA Cup, and the British Open golf championship. The passion and fervour with which the British support their national teams, particularly in sports like football and rugby, is truly remarkable. The iconic stadiums and arenas, such as Wembley Stadium and Twickenham, have become symbols of British sporting prowess and national identity.One of the most distinctive features of Britain is its rich architectural heritage. From the grand cathedrals and castles of the medieval era to the cutting-edge modern structures of the 21st century, the country's built environment is a testament to its long and storied history. The Gothic architecture of Westminster Abbey, the neoclassical grandeur of the Royal Crescent in Bath, and the contemporary design of the Shard in London all contribute to the diverse and captivating architectural landscape of Britain.Finally, the British sense of humour is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable aspects of its culture. The country's comedic traditions, from the slapstick antics of Monty Python to the dry wit of Blackadder, have become legendary around the world. The British ability to find humour in the most unexpected and mundane situations is a testament to their unique and often self-deprecating approach to life.In conclusion, the distinctive features of Britain are a reflection of its rich history, diverse culture, and enduring traditions. From the pomp and circumstance of the monarchy to the country's love for tea and sports, the UK is a land that continues to captivate and enchant visitors from around the world. Whether you're exploring the literary landmarks, immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene, or simply indulging in the country's renowned sense of humour, there is always something new and exciting to discover in this remarkable nation.。
高一英语阅读理解文化差异30题1<背景文章>Education is an important aspect of every society. There are significant differences between Chinese and American education cultures. In China, education is highly valued and there is a strong emphasis on academic achievement. Students often spend long hours in school and have a lot of homework. They are also expected to memorize a large amount of knowledge and perform well in exams.On the other hand, in America, education is more focused on creativity and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to ask questions and express their opinions. There is less emphasis on rote memorization and more on hands-on learning and problem-solving.Another difference is in the teaching methods. In Chinese classrooms, teachers usually play a dominant role and students listen and take notes. In American classrooms, there is more interaction between teachers and students. Students are often involved in group discussions and projects.1. In China, education is highly valued and students are expected to _____.A. be creativeB. ask questionsC. memorize a lot of knowledgeD. have less homework答案：C。
Topic 9: Holidays and Festivals(The UK and The USA)1.IntroductionThere are a number of national holidays and festivals in both Britain and the USA. Many of them have Christian or nationalist links, but others are to do with the seasons or special times of the year or old-fashioned beliefs and superstitions. We will look at some holidays which are common to both the USA and Britain, as well as some which are unique to each country.2.ChristmasChristmas is celebrated all over the world on the 25th December. It is supposed to celebrate the birthday of Jesus, although there is no strong evidence to prove that he was actually born on this date.The point is that it is a symbolic celebration of the birth of Jesus and thus has a special significance for Christians.3.The Commercialisation of Christmas（圣诞节的商业化）Even though, as we have seen, Christianity has declined in recent years, the celebration of Christmas has become more popular than ever.It has become extremely commercial, with many companies recording massive profits over the period and many people on quite ordinary incomes spending ridiculous amounts of money on it.4.A Winter HolidayFor people in the UK, Christmas offers a relief from the long, cold, wet, dark winters there.It is a time to party and celebrate with friends and family. A time to eat and drink more than you should and to spend lots of money on yourself and onpresents for other people.5.Christmas Carols（圣诞颂歌）Christmas is a festive season, and music plays a big part. Every year, groups of people form ‘choirs’（唱诗班）and go from house to house in their community in order to sing Christmas Carols (special Christmas hymns).Most houses will have a Christmas tree (often a real fir tree冷杉树) with decorations, and there will be special treats like nuts and dried fruits put out for people to eat. These traditions go back a long time.6.Father Christmas（圣诞老人）The majority of children in the UK and USA are given the myth of Father Christmas (or Santa Claus); many go to bed in the excited anticipation of a midnight visit from the man in red clothes and a long white beard who will leave them lots of presents for them to open in the morning.People often send Christmas cards to all their friends and family –even those they don’t even see or communicate with in the rest of the year.7.Christmas LunchThe Christmas day lunch or dinner is a huge meal. It is usual to invite lots of family to the meal, so a lot of food is prepared. In countries where people are becoming increasingly isolated, it is one of the few occasions when extended families do get together.The main meal is usually a roast, most commonly a large turkey, or perhaps a goose, with a Christmas pudding（布丁）for dessert.8.Christmas TVBefore lunch, many people will go out for a walk in order to meet other peopleand wish them ‘Merry Christmas’.After lunch, people are usually too full of rich food to do much. They might play special Christmas games and give out presents, or they might just all sit round the television. The BBC and other major TV channels have always made a big thing of Christmas and show many special programmes, many of them with a Christmas theme.9.Midnight Mass（子夜弥撒）For many people, the religious significance of Christmas is still important. There is always a Christmas church service in every church on Christmas morning, which many attend, but the most popular service is ‘Midnight Mass’, which is held at midnight on the night before Christmas day.Midnight Mass has a special atmosphere because it takes place at such an unusual time. Christmas Carols are sung, and people usually feel warm and happy towards each other.10.Charles Dickens and the making of the modern Christmas.Most peoples have their own traditions and myths（神话）about the origins of the modern celebration of Christmas in their countries.In Britain, one man in particular is given a lot of credit for the way Christmas is celebrated there: Charles Dickens.11.‘A Christmas Carol’（《圣诞颂歌》----此处为查尔斯·狄更斯一部小说名）Charles Dickens was a Victorian（维多利亚女王时代的人）, and the Victorians loved Christmas and gave it many of the features we know today. For example, the tradition of sending Christmas cards was started by the Victorians. Dickens was a sentimentalist（多愁善感的人）and loved to play on people’s emotions.He wrote a very famous short novel call ‘A Christmas Carol’. It was about a mean and miserable（卑鄙的）man called Ebenezer Scrooge who hated people and didn’t celebrate Christmas. However, one Christmas night he is visited by three ghosts who all help to show him the error of his ways by showing him scenes from his past, present and future lives. He is so frightened by what he sees that when he wakes in the morning he is a changed man and now loves people and Christmas.It is a Christmas miracle and is supposed to represent the true values of Christmas in which you love and help your fellow man, especially if they are poor or unhappy. Scrooge has become a massively popular icon(符号）of Christmas in many countries. As well as the book it has been made into plays and several films, as well as cartoon versions for children. Every Christmas several of these versions are shown on television.The word ‘scrooge’has even entered the popular vocabulary. If you call someone a scrooge you are calling them a mean, ungenerous person.Discussion Topics⑴Do you agree that Christmas has become far more commercialised（商业化）than festivals from other cultures? Why do you think this is?⑵Do you think Christmas helps bring people around the world together, or does it just emphasise（强调）our differences? Explain your answer.12.New Year’s EveThe New Year’s eve celebration is a farewell（告别）to the old year and a welcoming in of the new. There are no real symbols; most people either give or are invited to big parties and have lots to drink.New Year’s Day is a ‘Bank Holiday’, which means most people don’t have to work. This means they can sleep off their hangovers（宿醉）.At 12.00 midnight people usually watch TV to see a clock striking in the new year –in the UK this is of course BIG BEN.After the 12th stroke everybody starts cheering and kissing each other and singing a traditional song called ‘Auld Lang Syne’（友谊地久天长）In London, a tradition even started where people would jump into the fountains （喷泉）of Trafalgar Square（伦敦特拉法加广场）.There are big firework displays up and down the country.13.Hogmanay（苏格兰的除夕）‘Auld Lang Syne’is based on a poem written by the famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns.Scotland celebrates New Year with a particular tradition and enthusiasm. The Scots call the celebrations Hogmanay.14.New Year’s Resolutions（新年打算）It is traditional for people to see in the new year with a resolution.A ‘resolution’is a promise to yourself that you will do something to improve your life. For example, you might make a resolution to give up smoking.Most people keep to their resolutions for a few days, but soon go back to their old habits.15.EasterEaster takes place over a weekend sometime between March 22nd and April 25th, depending on the ‘Equinox’（春分）, or full moon (it falls on the weekend after the equinox).It is a Christian festival and commemorates（庆祝）the crucifixion of Jesus（耶稣受难）on Friday (known as ‘Good Friday’) and his resurrection from the dead the following Sunday.It is a predominantly（明显地）religious festival for Christians with church services throughout the weekend, particularly on Easter Day (Sunday). However, both Good Friday and the Monday following the weekend are Bank Holidays, which means a lot of people can enjoy a long weekend.Easter commemorates new life, and consequently the popular symbol has become the egg.Children are traditionally given chocolate eggs on Easter day. These are often very decorative and quite expensive. They are also a symbol of the commercialisation of Easter.16.May DayThe May Day Holiday is the 1st of May, but the national bank holiday in the UK is always the first Monday in May.May day is a Spring Festival and has an ancient traditionIt also coincides with the ‘International Workers’Day’.May Day has been a traditional day of festivities throughout the centuries.May Day is most associated with towns and villages celebrating springtime fertility富饶(of the soil, livestock家畜, and people) and revelry with village fetes and community gatherings.May Day is a very old festival and has its origins in ancient, pre-Christian, pagan（异教徒的）tradition.17.Harvest Festival（收获节）In Britain, thanks have been given for successful harvests since pagan times. Harvest festival is traditionally held on the Sunday near or of the Harvest Moon. This is the full Moon that occurs closest to the autumn equinox (about Sept. 23). In two years out of three, the Harvest Moon comes in September, but in some years it occurs in October.The celebrations on this day usually include singing hymns, praying, and decorating churches with baskets of fruit and food in the festival known as Harvest Festival, Harvest Home or Harvest Thanksgiving, as well as a family or community supper. The latter is often held in the local village hall.18.ThanksgivingIn the United States, the Harvest Festival, or Thanksgiving as it is known there, has much greater national and religious significance than it does in the UK.This is because the Harvest had particular significance for ‘Puritans’（清教徒）. Puritans are independent, extremely religious Protestants, and it was Puritans who were the ‘Founding Fathers’of what was to become the United States of America, when they left England in 1620 to start a new life in New England. Legend has it that they celebrated the first Thanksgiving in 1621.Since then, Thanksgiving has become an important part of the American myth, and it is one of the most important national holidays in the USA. In many ways it is more important to Americans than Christmas because it is a special American tradition. It is a day when family will try to get together and enjoy a big meal,usually roast turkey.Thanksgiving is celebrated quite a bit later than the Harvest Festival in the UK, on the fourth Thursday in November.19.HalloweenHalloween or Hallowe'en, (a contraction缩写of "All Hallows' Evening"), also known as All Hallows' Eve, is a yearly celebration on 31 October, the eve of the Western Christian feast of All Hallows’Day.It is dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints (hallows)圣徒, martyrs（殉道者）and faithful departed believers.According to many scholars, All Hallows' Eve is a Christianised feast initially influenced by Celtic Harvest Festivals, with possible pagan roots.Other academics maintain that it has purely Christian roots.Typical festive Halloween activities include trick-or treating, attending costume parties, decorating, carving pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns, lighting bonfires（篝火）, apple bobbing（咬苹果）, visiting haunted attractions, playing pranks（恶作剧）, telling scary stories, and watching horror films.20.Guy Fawkes Night（盖伊·福克斯之夜）Guy Fawkes night is a British tradition and has its roots in the old conflict between Protestants and Catholics.‘The Gunpowder plot’was an attempt by a group of Catholics to assassinate the King of England, James I in 1605 by blowing up the Houses of Parliament with 36 barrels of gunpowder hidden in a cellar underneath Parliament.A man called Robert Catesby was in charge of the plot, and Guy Fawkes was the leader of the team that actually planted the explosives.The plotters were angry because at that time England was a still quite a new Protestant country. The government and the majority of people (Protestants) were suspicious of Catholics and were afraid they would try to take power again. Roman Catholics were consequently treated very badly by the state and by many people. They had few rights.。
Embracing the Rich Customs and Culture of the United KingdomThe United Kingdom, a nation steeped in history and tradition, offers a unique blend of customs and culture that captivates visitors from around the world. From its ancient castles to its vibrant street festivals, the UK is a tapestry of diverse traditions and celebrations.One of the most enduring customs is the afternoon tea, a ritual that dates back to the 19th century. It's a time for relaxation, socializing, and enjoying a selection of delicate sandwiches, scones, and, of course, a pot of tea. This tradition is still very much alive in modern Britain, and many cafes and hotels offer afternoon tea services.The royal family also plays a significant role in British culture. Events like the Trooping of the Color and the State Opening of Parliament are highly anticipated and attract thousands of spectators. These occasions provide a glimpse into the pomp and ceremony that surrounds the monarchy.Sports also hold a special place in British culture. Football, cricket, and rugby are some of the most popular sports, and the atmosphere during matches is electric. Pubs become lively hubs of discussion and cheering, making sports a unifying force in society.In conclusion, the United Kingdom is a nation that embodies its rich customs and culture in every aspect of life. From the quiet elegance of afternoon tea to the excitement of royal events and sporting matches, there is much to discover and appreciate in this fascinating country.。
Unit 1 Festivals around the worldFESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONSFestivals and celebrations of all kinds have been held everywhere since ancient times. Most ancient festivals would celebrate the end of cold weather, planting in spring and harvest in autumn. Sometimes celebrations would be held after hunters had caught animals. At that time people would starve if food was difficult to find, especially during the cold winter months. Today’s festivals have many origins, some religious, some seasonal, and some for special people or events. Festivals of the deadSome festivals are held to honour the dead or to satisfy the ancestors, who might return either to help or to do harm. For the Japanese festival Obon, people should go to clean graves and light incense in memory of their ancestors. They also light lamps and play music because they think that will lead the ancestors back to earth. In Mexico, people celebrate the Day of the Dead in early November. On this important feast day, people eat food in the shape of skulls and cakes with “bones” on them. They offer food, flowers and gifts to the dead. The Western holiday Halloween also had its origin in old beliefs about the return of the spirits of dead people. It is now a children’s festival, when they can dress up and go to their neighbours’homes to ask for sweets. If the neighbours do not give any sweets, the children might play a trick on them.Festivals to Honour PeopleFestivals can also be held to honour famous people. The Dragon Boat Festival in China honours the famous ancient poet, Qu Yuan. In the USA, Columbus Day is in memory of the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the New World. India has a national festival on October 2 to honour Mohandas Gandhi, the leader who helped gain India’s independence from Britain.Harvest FestivalsHarvest and Thanksgiving festivals can be very happy events. People are grateful because their food is gathered for the winter and the agricultural work is over. In European countries, people will usually decorate churches and town halls with flowers and fruit, and will get together to have meals. Some people might win awards for their farm produce, like the biggest watermelon or the most handsome rooster. China and Japan have mid-autumn festivals when people admire the moon and in China enjoy moon-cakes.Spring FestivalsThe most energetic and important festivals are the ones that look forward to the end of winter and to the coming of spring. At the Spring Festival in China, people eat dumplings, fish and meat and may give children lucky money in red paper. There are dragon dances and carnivals, and families celebrate the Lunar New Year together. Some Western countries have very exciting carnivals, which take place forty days before Easter, usually in February. These carnivals might include parades, dancing in the streets day and night, loud music and colourful clothing of al kinds. Easter is an important religious and social festival for Christians around the world. It celebrates the return of Jesus from the dead and the coming of spring and new life. Japan’s Cherry Blossom Festival happens a little later. The country, covered with cherry tree flowers, looks as though it is covered with pink snow.People love to get together to eat, drink and have fun with each other. Festivals let us enjoy life, be proud of our customs and forget our work for a little while.A SAD LOVE STORYLI Fang was heart-broken. It was Valentine’s Day and Hu Jin had said she would meet him at the coffee shop after work. But she didn’t turn up. She could be with her friends right now laughing at him. She said she would be there at seven o’clock, and he thought she would keep her word. He had looked forward to meeting her all day, and now he was alone with his roses and chocolates, like a fool. Well, he was not going to hold his breath for her to apologize. He would drown his sadness in coffee.It was obvious that the manager of the coffee shop was waiting for Li Fang to leave - he wiped the tables, then sat down and turned on the TV - just what Li Fang needed! A sad Chinese story about lost love.The granddaughter of the Goddess of Heaven visited the earth. Her name was Zhinü, the weaving girl. While she was on earth she met the herd boy Niulang and they fell in love. (“Just like me and Hu Jin,” thought Li Fang.) They got married secretly, and they were very happy. (“We could be like that,” thought Li Fang.) When the Goddess of Heaven knew that her granddaughter was married to a human, she became very angry and made the weaving girl return to Heaven. Niu Lang tried to follow her, but the river of stars, the Milky Way, stopped him. Finding that Zhinüwas heart-broken, her grandmother finally decided to let the couple cross the Milky Way to meet once a year. Magpies make a bridge of their wings so the couple can cross the river to meet on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. People in China hope that the weather will be fine on that day, because if it is raining, it means that Zhinü is weeping and the couple won’t be able to meet. The announcer said, “This is the story of Qiqiao Festival. When foreigners hear about the story, they call it a Chinese Valentine’s story. It’s a fine day today, so I hope you can call all meet the one you love.”As Li Fang set off for home, he thought, “I guess Hu Jin doesn’t love me. I’ll just throw these flowers and chocolates away. I don’t want them to remind me of her.” So he did.As he sadly passed the tea shop on the corner on his way home, he heard a voice calling him. There was Hu Jin waving at him and calling, “Why are you so late? I’ve been waiting for you for a long time! And I have a gift for you!”What would he do? He had thrown away her Valentine gifts! She would never forgive him. This would not be a happy Valentine’s Day! Unit 2 Healthy eatingCOME AND EAT HERE (I)Wang Peng sat in his empty restaurant feeling very frustrated. It had been a very strange morning. Usually he got up early and prepared his menu of barbecued mutton kebabs, roast pork, stir-fried vegetables and fried rice. Then by lunchtime they would all be sold. By now his restaurant ought to be full of people. But not today! Why was that? What could have happened? He thought of his mutton, beef and bacon cooked in the hottest, finest oil. His cola was sugary and cold, and his ice cream was made of milk, cream and delicious fruit. “Nothing could be better,”he thought. Suddenly he saw his friend Li Chang hurrying by. “Hello, Lao Li,” he called. “Your usual?” But Li Chang seemed not to hear. What was the matter? Something terrible must have happened if Li Chang was not coming to eat in his restaurant as he always did.Wang Peng followed Li Chang into a new small restaurant. He saw a sign at the door.Tired of all that fat? Want to lose weight?Come inside Yong Hui’s slimming restaurant.Only slimming foods served here.Make yourself thin again!Curiosity drove Wang Peng inside. It was full of people. The hostess, a very thin lady, came forward. “Welcome,” she said. “My name is Yong Hui. I’ll help you lose weight and be fit in two weeks if you eat here every day.” Then she gave a menu to Wang Peng. There were few choices of food and drink on it: just rice, raw vegetables served in vinegar, fruit and water. Wang Peng was amazed at this and especially at the prices. It cost more than a good meal in his restaurant! He could not believe his eyes. He threw down the menu and hurried outside. On his way home he thought about his own menu. Did it make people fat? Perhaps he should go to the library and find out. He could not have Yong Hui getting away with telling people lies! He had better do some research!At the library Wang Peng was surprised to find that his restaurant served far too much fat and Yong Hui’s far too little. Even though her customers might get thin after eating Yong Hui’s food, they were not eating enough energy-giving food to keep them fit. They would become tired very quickly. Wang Peng felt more hopeful as he drove back home. Perhaps with a discount and a new sign he could win his customers back. So he wrote:Want to feel fit and energetic?Come and eat here! Discounts today!Our food gives you energy all day!The competition between the two restaurants was on!COME AND EAT HERE (II)A week later, Wang Peng’s restaurant was nearly full and he felt happier. Perhaps he would be able to earn his living after all and not have to close his restaurant. He did not look forward to being in debt because his restaurant was no longer popular. He smiled as he welcomed some customers warmly at the door but the smile left his face when he saw Yong Hui walking in. She did not look happy but glared at him. “May I ask what you were doing in my restaurant the other day? I thought you were a new customer and now I know that you only came to spy on me and my menu,” she shouted. “Please excuse me,” he calmly explained, “I wanted to know where all my customers had gone last week. I followed one of them and found them in your restaurant. I don’t want to upset you, but I found your menu so limited that I stopped worrying and started advertising the benefits of my food. Why don’t you sit down and try a meal?”Yong Hui agreed to stay and soon they were both enjoying dumplings and breast of chicken cooked with garlic. When they were served the ice cream, Yong Hui began to look ill. “I feel sick with all this fat and heavy food,”she said, “I miss my vegetables and fruit.”Wang Peng was enjoying a second plate of dumplings so he sighed. “Yes,”he added, “and I would miss my dumplings and fatty pork. Don’t you get tired quickly?”“Well, I do have to rest a lot,” admitted Yong Hui. “But don’t you think it would be better if you were a bit thinner? I’m sure you’d feel much healthier.”They began to talk about menus and balanced diets. “According to my research, neither your restaurant nor mine offers a balanced diet,” explained Wang Peng. “I don’t offer enough fibre and you don’t offer enough body-building and energy-giving food. Perhaps we ought to combine our ideas and provide a balanced menu with food full of energy and fibre.” So that is what they did. They served raw vegetables with the hamburgers and boiled the potatoes rather than fried them. They served fresh fruit with the ice cream. In this way they cut down the fat and increased thefibre in the meal. Their balanced diets became such a success that before long Wang Peng became slimmer and Yong Hui put on more weight. After some time the two found that their business cooperation had turned into a personal one. Finally they got married and live happily ever after.Unit 3 The Million Pound Bank NoteTHE MILLION POUND BANK NOTEAct I, Scene 3NARRA TOR: It is the summer of 1903. Two old and wealthy brothers, Roderick and Oliver, have made a bet. Oliver believes that with a million pound bank note a man could survive a month in London. His brother Roderick doubts it. At this moment, they see a penniless young man wandering on the pavement outside their house. It is Henry Adams, an American businessman, who is lost in London and does not know what he should do.RODERICK: Young man, would you step inside a moment, please?HENRY: Who? Me, sir?RODERICK: Yes, you.OLIVER: Through the front door on your left.HENRY: (a servant opens a door) Thanks.SERV ANT: Good morning, sir. Would you please come in? Permit me to lead the way, sir. OLIVER: (Henry enters) Thank you, James. That will be all.RODERICK: How do you do, Mr …er …?HENRY: Adams. Henry Adams.OLIVER: Come and sit down, Mr Adams.HENRY: Thank you.RODERICK: Your are an American?HENRY: That’s right, from San Francisco.RODERICK: How well do you know London?HENRY: Not at all. It’s my first trip here.RODERICK: I wonder, Mr Adams, if you mind us asking a few questions?HENRY: Not at all. Go right ahead.RODERICK: May we ask what you’re doing in this country and what your plans are? HENRY: Well, I can’t say that I have any plans. I’m hoping to find work. As a matter of fact,I landed in Britain by accident.RODERICK: How is that possible?HENRY: Well, you see, back home I have my own boat. About a month ago, I was sailing out of the bay…(his eyes stare at what is left of the brothers’ dinner on the table) OLIVER: Well, go on.HENRY: Oh, yes. Well, towards nightfall I found myself carried out to sea by a strong wind.It was all my fault. I didn’t know whether I could survive until morning. The nextmorning I’d just about given myself up for lost when I was spotted by a ship. OLIVER: And it was the ship that brought you to England.HENRY: Yes. The fact is that I earned my passage by working as an unpaid hand, whichaccounts for my appearance. I went to the American embassy to seek help, but …(the brothers smile at each other)RODERICK: Well, you mustn’t worry about that. It’s an advantage.HENRY: I’m afraid I don’t quite follow you, sir.RODERICK: Tell us, Mr Adams, what sort of work did you do in America?HENRY: I worked for a mining company. Could you offer me some kind of work here? RODERICK: Patience, Mr Adams. If you don’t mind, may I ask how much money you have? HENRY: Well, to be honest, I have none.RODERICK: (happily) What luck! Brother, what luck! (claps his hands together)HENRY: Well, it may seem lucky to you but not to me! On the contrary, in fact. If this is your idea of some kind of joke, I don’t think it’s very funny. (Henry stands up toleave) Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll be on my way.RODERICK: Please don’t go Mr Adams. You mustn’t think we don’t care about you. Oliver, give him the letter.OLIVER: Yes, the letter. (gets it from a desk and gives it to Henry like a gift) The letter. HENRY: (taking it carefully) For me?RODERICK: For you. (Henry starts to open it) Oh, no, you mustn’t open it. Not yet. You can’t open it until two o’clock.HENRY: Oh, this is silly.RODERICK: Not silly. There’s money in it. (calls to the servant) James?HENRY: Oh, no. I don’t want your charity. I just want an honest job.RODERICK: We know you’re hard-working. That’s why we have given you the letter. James, show Mr Adams out.OLIVER: Good luck, Mr Adams.HENRY: Well, why don’t you explain what this is all about?RODERICK: You’ll soon know. (looks at the clock) In exactly an hour and a half.SERV ANT: This way, sir.RODERICK: Mr Adams, not until 2 o’clock. Promise?HENRY: Promise. goodbye.Unit 4 Astronomy: the science of the starsHOW LIFE BEGAN ON THE EARTHNo one knows exactly how the earth began, as it happened so long ago. However, according to a widely accepted theory, the universe began with a “Big Bang” that threw matter in all directions. After that, atoms began to form and combine to create stars and other bodies.For several billion years after the “Big Bang”, the earth was still just a cloud of dust. What it was to become was uncertain until between 4.5 and 3.8 billion years ago when the dust settled into a solid globe. The earth became so violent that it was not clear whether the shape would last or not. It exploded loudly with fire and rock. They were in time to produce carbon dioxide, nitrogen, water vapour and other gases, which were to make the earth’s atmosphere. What is even more important is that as the earth cooled down, water began to appear on its surface.Water had also appeared on other planets like Mars but, unlike the earth, it had disappeared later. It was not immediately obvious that water was to be fundamental to the development of life. What many scientists believe is that the continued presence of water allowed the earth to dissolve harmful gases and acids into the oceans and seas. This produced a chain reaction, which made it possible for life to develop.Many millions of years later, the first extremely small plants began to appear on the surface of the water. They multiplied and filled the oceans and seas with oxygen, which encouraged the later development of early shellfish and all sorts of fish. Next, green plants began to grow on land. They were followed in time by land animals. Some were insects. Others, called amphibians, were able to live on land as well as in the water. Later when the plants grew into forests, reptiles appeared for the first time. They produced young generally by laying eggs. After that, some huge animals, called dinosaurs, developed. They laid eggs too and existed on the earth for more than 140 million years. However, 65 million years ago the age of the dinosaurs ended. Why they suddenly disappeared still remains a mystery. This disappearance made possible the rise of mammals on the earth. These animals were different from all life forms in the past, because they gave birth to young baby animals and produced milk to feed them.Finally about 2.6 million years ago some small clever animals, now with hands and feet, appeared and spread all over the earth. Thus they have, in their turn, become the most important animals on the planet. But they are not looking after the earth very well. They are putting too much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which prevents heat from escaping from the earth into space. As a result of this, many scientists believe the earth may become too hot to live on. So whether life will continue on the earth for millions of years to come will depend on whether this problem can be solved.A VISIT TO THE MOONLast month I was lucky enough to have a chance to make a trip into space with my friend Li Yanping, an astronomer. We visited the moon in our spaceship!Before we left, Li Yanping explained to me that the force of gravity would change three times on our journey and that the first change would be the most powerful. Then we were off. As the rocket rose into the air, we were pushed back into our seats because we were trying to escape the pull of the earth’s gravity. It was so hard that we could not say anything to each other. Gradually the weight lessened and I was able to talk to him. “Why is the spaceship not falling back to the earth? On the earth if I fall from a tree I will fall to the ground.” I asked. “We are too far from the earth now to feel its pull,” he explained, “so we feel as if no gravity at all. When we get closer to the moon, we shall feel its gravity pulling us, but it will not be as strong a pull as the earth’s.” I cheered up immediately and floated weightlessly around in our spaceship cabin watching the earth become smaller and the moon larger.When we got there, I wanted to explore immediately. “Come on,” I said. “If you are right, my weight will be less than on the earth because the moon is smaller and I will be able to move more freely. I might even grow taller if I stay here long enough. I shall certainly weigh less!” I laughed and climbed down the steps from the spaceship. But when I tried to step forward. I found I was carried twice as far as on the earth and fell over. “Oh dear,” I cried, “walking does need a bit of practice now that gravity has changed.” After a while I got the hang of it and we began to enjoy ourselves.Leaving the moon’s gravity was not as painful as leaving the earth’s. But returning to the earth was very frightening. We watched, amazed as fire broke out on the outside of the spaceship as the earth’s gravity increased. Again we were pushed hard into our seats as we came back to land. “That was very exhausting but very exciting too,” I said. “Now I know much more about gravity! Do you think we could visit some stars next time?”“Of course,” he smiled, “which star would you like to go to?”Unit 5 CANADA- “THE TRUE NORTH”A TRIP ON “THE TRUE NORTH”Li Daiyu and her cousin Liu Qian were on a trip to Canada to visit their cousins in Montreal on the Atlantic coast. Rather than take the aeroplane all the way, they decided to fly to Vancouver and then take the train from west to east across Canada. The thought that they could cross the whole continent was exciting.Their friend, Danny Lin, was waiting at the airport. He was going to take them and their baggage to catch “The True North”, the cross-Canada train. On the way to the station, he chatted about their trip. “You’re going to see some great scenery. Going eastward, you’ll pass mountains and thousands of lakes and forests, as well as wide rivers and large cities. Some people have the idea that you can cross Canada in less than five days, but they forget the fact that Canada is 5,500 kilometres from coast to coast. Here in Vancouver, you’re in Canada’s warmest part. People say it is Canada’s most popular cities to live in. Its population is increasing rapidly. The coast north of Vancouver has some of the oldest and most beautiful forests in the world. It is so wet there that the trees are extremely tall, some measuring over 90 metres.”That afternoon aboard the train, the cousins settled down in their seats. Earlier that day, when they crossed the Rocky Mountains, they managed to catch sight of some mountain goats and even a grizzly bear and an eagle. Their next stop was Calgary, which is famous for the Calgary Stampede. Cowboys from all over the world come to compete in the Stampede. Many of them have a gift for riding wild horses and can win thousands of dollars in prizes.After two days’ travel, the girls began to realize that Canada is quite empty. At school, they had learned that most Canadians live within a few hundred kilometres of the USA border, and Canada’s population is only slightly over thirty million, but now they were amazed to see such an empty country. They went through a wheat-growing province and saw farms that covered thousands of acres. After dinner, they were back in an urban area, the busy port city of Thunder Bay at the top of the Great Lakes. The girls were surprised at the fact that ocean ships can sail up the Great Lakes. Because of the Great Lakes, they learned, Canada has more fresh water than any other country in the world. In fact, it has one-third of the world’s total fresh water, and much of it is in the Great Lakes.That night as they slept, the train rushed across the top of Lake Superior, through the great forests and southward towards Toronto.。
必修3 unit1Festivals and celebrationsFestivals and celebrations of all kinds have been held everywhere since ancient times.Most ancient festivals would celebrate the end of cold weather,planting in spring and harvest in autumn.Sometimes celebrate would be held after hunters had caught animals.At that time people would starve if food was difficult to find,especially during the cold winter months.Today’s festivals have many origins ,some religious,some seasonal, and some for special people or events.Festivals of the DeadSome festivals are held to honour the dead or to satisfy the ancestors,who might return either to help or to do harm.For the Japanese festival.Obon,people should go to clean graves and light incense in memory of their ancestors.They also light lamps and play music because they think that this will lead the ancestors back to earth.In Mexico,people celebrate the Day of the Dead in early November.On this important feast day,people eat food in the shape of skulls and cakes with”bones”on them.T hey offer food,flowers and gifts to the dead.The Western holiday Halloween also had its origin in old beliefs about the return of the spirits of dead people. It is now a childr en’s festival,when they can dress up and to to their neighbours’ homes to ask for sweets.If the neighbours do not give any sweets,the children might play a trick on them.Festivals to Honour PeopleFestivals can also be held to honour famous people .The Dragon Boat Festival in China honours the famous ancient poet, Qu Yuan.In the USA Columbus Day is in memory of the arrival of Christopher Columbus in New World.India has a national festival on October 2 to honour Mohandas Gandhi,the leader who helped gain India’s independence from Britain.Harvest FestivalsHarvest and Thanksgiving festivals can be very happy events.People are grateful because their food is gathered for the winter and the agricultural work is over.In European countries,people will usually decorate churches and town halls with flowers and fruit,and will get together to have meals.Some people might win awards for their farm produce,like the biggest watermelon or the most handsome rooster.China and Japan have mid-autumn festivals,when people admire the moon and in China,enjoy mooncakes.Spring FestivalsThe most energetic and important festivals are the ones that look forward to the end of winter and to the coming of spring.At the Spring Festival in China,people eat dumplings,fish and meat and may give children lucky money in red paper.There are dragon dances and carnivals,and families celebrate the Lunar New Year together.Some Western countries have very exciting carnivals,which take place forty days before Easter,usually in February.These carnivals might include parades,dancing in the streets day and night,loud music and colourful clothing of all kinds.Easter is an important religious and social festival for Christians around the world.It celebrates the return of Jesus from the dead and the coming of spring and new life.Japan’s Cherry Blossom Festival happens a little later.The country, covered with cherry tree flowers, looks as thought it is covered with pink snow.People love to get together to eat , drink and have fun with each other.Festivals let us enjoy life,be proud of our customs and forget our work for a little while。
西方传统节日起源和特点英语作文Western traditional festivals have always been an important part of the cultural heritage of various countries. These festivals are deeply rooted in history and have unique characteristics that make them special and memorable.西方传统节日一直是各国文化遗产中重要的一部分。
这些节日深深植根于历史，并具有独特的特点，使它们既特别又难忘。
One of the most well-known Western traditional festivals is Christmas, celebrated on December 25th each year. It originated as a Christian holiday to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, and has since evolved into a global celebration of love, joy, and togetherness. The iconic symbols of Christmas, such as the Christmas tree, gifts, and Santa Claus, have become ingrained in popular culture and are eagerly anticipated each year.最著名的西方传统节日之一是圣诞节，每年12月25日庆祝。
它起源于基督教节日，纪念耶稣基督的诞生，并已演变为一个全球性的庆祝活动，强调爱、快乐和团聚。
圣诞节的标志性符号，如圣诞树，礼物和圣诞老人，已经深入人心，每年都受到热切期待。
不同季节的特殊节日英语作文Possible essay:Special Festivals in Different SeasonsAs the seasons change, various festivals are celebrated around the world. Let me introduce some of them.SpringIn spring, people welcome the new year and the renewal of nature in different ways. For example, Chinese people celebrate the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, which falls between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar. This is the most important holiday in China, when families gather, eat dumplings, watch dragon and lion dances, and set off fireworks to ward off evil spirits and attract good luck. In Japan, people celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival, or Hanami, in late March or early April, when the cherry trees bloom and create a pink and white wonderland. People have picnics, drink sake, and admire the beauty of nature. In India, people celebrate Holi, or the Festival of Colors, in late February or earlyMarch, when people throw colored powders and water at each other to express joy and love.春天，人们以不同的方式欢迎新年和自然的更新。
节假日的具体日期英语作文The Specific Dates of Holidays。
Holidays are an important part of our lives as they provide us with an opportunity to relax, spend time with loved ones, and celebrate special occasions. Each country has its own set of holidays, and the specific dates ofthese holidays vary. In this article, we will explore the specific dates of some popular holidays celebrated around the world.One of the most widely celebrated holidays is NewYear's Day. This holiday marks the beginning of the newyear and is celebrated on January 1st in most countries. It is a time for new beginnings, resolutions, and celebrations. In many cultures, people gather with friends and family, attend parties, watch fireworks displays, and make wishesfor the year ahead.Another important holiday is Valentine's Day, which iscelebrated on February 14th. This holiday is associated with love and romance. People exchange gifts, cards, and flowers with their loved ones to express their affection.It is a day to celebrate love and strengthen relationships.In many countries, Easter is a significant holiday. The date of Easter varies each year and is determined by the lunar calendar. It is generally celebrated between March and April. Easter is a Christian holiday that commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time forreligious observances, attending church services, and participating in festive activities such as Easter egg hunts.Labor Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated on May 1st in many countries. It is a day to honor the contributions of workers and the achievements of the labor movement. In some countries, it is a public holiday and people enjoy a day off from work. Labor Day is often marked by parades, rallies, and other events organized by labor unions.Independence Day is a significant holiday in many countries, including the United States. It is celebrated on July 4th to commemorate the country's declaration of independence from Great Britain. Independence Day is often marked by patriotic displays, fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings. It is a day to celebrate national pride and freedom.Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, is a holidaythat is associated with costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky decorations. It originated from ancient Celtic festivals and has evolved into a fun-filled holiday celebrated in many countries. People of all ages dress up in costumes, carve pumpkins, and participate in Halloween-themed activities.Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a day to give thanks for the blessings of the year and to spend time with family and friends. The holiday is often marked by a festive meal, with turkey being the centerpiece. It is a time for gratitude, reflection, and appreciation.Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays around the world. It is celebrated on December 25th to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a time for joy, gift-giving, and spending time with loved ones. People decorate their homes, exchange gifts, and attend church services. Santa Claus, a popular figure associated with Christmas, brings gifts to children.These are just a few examples of holidays celebrated around the world. The specific dates of holidays vary from country to country, and even within countries, there may be regional variations. Holidays are an important part of our cultural identity and provide us with an opportunity to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories.。
The special festivals in the BritainThere are many festivals in the Britain, in this paper, we just introduce you several special and interesting ones. They are as followed:●Edinburgh International Festival (爱丁堡国际艺术节)The post-war years have been a great growth in the number of arts festivals in Britain and other European countries. Among them the Edinburgh International Festival has foremost events of its kind in the world. This is not surprising because everything in the arts, if it is first-class, is potentially an Edinburgh Festival attraction. On most evenings during the festival there are as many as six events to choose from on the official program: symphony concerts（交响音乐会）, ballets, plays, recitals（独唱）—all given by the finest artistes in the world. The festival was inaugurated in 1947. Glyndebourne Opera（格林德本歌剧团）, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra（维也纳爱乐乐团）, the Old Vic Theatre （老维多利亚剧院）and Sadler’s Wells Ballet （塞德勒的威尔斯芭蕾舞团）were only a few of the participants of this first venture. The festival was a success, and has been held annually ever since.The festival is quit international in its character giving as a rule a varied representation of artistic production from a number of countries, and over the past few years it has a definite theme, that is the work of one or two composers studied in depth.For instance:In 1961, it gave a comprehensive view of Arnold Schoenberg.In 1962, a similar treatment was given to the music of the famous former Soviet composer Dmitri.In 1969, the theme of the festival was a country—Italy.The festival has done a great deal in the development of arts in Scotland. In addition to establishing the Scottish Festival Chorus, it helped to develop the Scottish opera and the Scottish National Orchestra which started by giving only occasional light concerts in the festival with Mahler’s massive Eighth Symphony.One of the reasons for the festival’s success in that it is easy for the visitors to make their arrangements, since Festival programs are published as early as March, and the booking opens soon afterwards, at the beginning of April. The festival Society which takes care of all these matters not only arranges for the visitor’s tickets but also reserves accommodation.●The Maypole（五月花柱）The Maypole is an ancient fertility emblem belonging to the beginning of summer, and it also represents a tree; indeed, at one time it was a tree, brought in from the woods with ceremony, and set up on thevillage green. In the darkness of the early morning, the young people went out on May Day and cut down a tall, young tree, lopped off most of its branches, leaving only a few at the top, and so brought it home, to be adorned with flowers and garlands, and to serve as a center for their dances.Sometimes the parish possessed a standing Maypole, a permanent shaft which remained in adorned when May Day came round. A few still stand, or rather, their descendants do on the not much more than fifteen years. After that, it begins to rot at the foot and has to be renewed. These permanent poles are usually very tall. That at Welford-on-Avon(艾玛河畔威尔福特) with its bright red, circular that at Barwick-in-Elmet（埃尔迈巴威克）, near Leeds（利兹）, is even taller, down the Maypole is re-painted, and ever so often, when it becomes necessary, replaced, and its four garlands renewed.There are still a good many Maypoles today. Most schools have them, on May Day, or on some convenient day during month, and some villages maintain the old tradition, especially in places where there are standing Maypoles.●Student RagsStudent Rags is a well established practice associated particularly with older Universities of students mounting some sort of pageant andcollecting money for charity. They think up themes and decorate a float (a truck with a flat loading area) to represent their concept – perhaps a pirate ship, and operating theatre, a coalmine or something topical and humorous. Then the group of students associated with that float dresses up to sustain the impression.The Rag Day is often held in February when it s still decidedly cold, but this does not seem to deter the girls from dressing in the flimsiest of garments as mermaids(美人鱼) or grass-skirted Nawacan maiden s（纳瓦肯少女）, or the lads from turning out as cave men and the like. There is usually a magazine for the occasion，its contents being mainly humorous and vulgar, for students feel that they are given license for some mild misbehavior. In this connection they indulge in certain stunts, for example the kidnapping of local who rather like the publicity anyway, or climbing public buildings，for example to put a chamber pot on top of a steeple. The authorities can be vexed with the more outrageous of the capers, for example painting statues, for it is expensive to clean off the paint, but lesser liberties such as throwing bags of flour at policemen are tolerated.So, students let off steam and the public is entertained and contributes by buying magazines or putting money in collecting boxes. And eventually the cash collected finds its way into local charitable organizations.The students usually have a Grand Ball, which is often fancy dress too, and this finishes off strenuous day which itself had marked the culmination of sometimes weeks of preparation.●St. Valentine’s DayI’ll be your sweetheart, if you will be mine,All of my life I’ll be your ValentineThe first Valentine of all was a bishop, a Christian martyr, who before he was put to death by Romans sent a note of friendship to his jailer’s blind daughter.The Christmas Church took this day February 14 as an old pagan festival when young Roman maidens threw decorated love missives into an urn to be drawn out by their boy friends.In the last century, sweethearts of both sexes would spend hours fashioning a homemade card or present. The results of some of those painstaking efforts are still preserved in museums. Lace, ribbon, wild flowers, colored paper, feathers and shells, all were brought into use.If the aspiring (or perspiring) lover had difficulty in thinking up a message or rhyme there was help at hand. He could dip into The Quiver of Love or St. Valentine’s Sentimental Writer, these booksgiving varied selections to suit everyone’s choice. Sam Weller, of Pickwick Paper fame, took an hour and a half to write his “Valentine”, with much blotting and crossing out and warnings from his father not to descend to poetry.Nowadays, the Valentine is for the boys and girls, sweethearts and lovers, husbands and wives, friends and neighbors, and even the office staff to exchange greetings of affection, undying love or satirical comment. And the quick, slick, modern way to do it is with a Valentine card.There are all kinds, to suit all tastes, the lush satin cushions, boxed and be-ribboned, the entwined hearts, gold arrows, roses, cupids, doggerel rhymes, and sick sentiment -it’s all there. The publishers made sure it was there three weeks in advance.In his magazine, Punch, as long ago as 1880 he pointed out that no sooner was the avalanche of Christmas cards swept away than the publishers began to fill the shops with their novel valentines, full of “hearts and Darts, Loves and Doves and Floating Fays and Flowers.”So in the 20th century, when there are no longer any bars to communication between the sexes, the love missives of an older, slower time, edged carefully over the counters by the publishers and shopkeepers, still surge through the letter boxes.●The Shrove TuesdayOne of the main events of Shrove Tuesday at Olney in Bucking-hamshire is the pancake race. This race is said to have been first run there in 1445, and to have continued intermittently ever since, with occasional lapses and revivals. One such lapse occurred, for obvious reason, during the Second World War, but in 1948 the custom was restarted and has not since suffered interruption.The competitors are housewives who must be inhabitants of Olney, or the nearby Warrington. The rules also require them to wear aprons and to cover their head with a hat or scarf. The course to be run is from the village to the parish church, about four hundred and fifteen yards. A bell rings twice before the race, once to warn the women assemble in the square，each one carrying a frying pan；the other is rung to start the running.The pancakes have to be tossed three times during the race, and some, inevitably land in the road, but this doesn’t disqualify the runner, who is allowed to pick it up and toss it again.At the church door, the Vicar waits to greet the breathless women, and to award the winner and the runner-up with prayer books. The leading vicar has the right to kiss the winner and get her pancake. The pans are laid round the font in the church, and a short service of blessing is held.●FiresFairs can still be found all over England, although many have been disappeared even during the last thirty years.The Trinity fair, at Southwold, Suffork, from being an occasion of buying and selling in the High Street is now an extensive pleasure and amusement fir held on the Sough Green, and some of the more demure of inhabitants have several times unsuccessfully endeavored to get it abolished. On one occasion the municipal authorities and police were drawn up across the street to bar ingress to the fair people, but latter were equal to the occasion, and their huge steam road engine bore slowly down upon the line of officials, who thought it better clear out of the way.Sherborne in Dorset holds a pack Monday Fair. This fair was first held in 1490, and is now the sole survivor of the three great fairs that were once held in Sherbone. There is a curious custom in connection with this fair. At Midnight on evening beforehand bands of boys and girls with linked arms rush through the streets blowing horns, whistling, ratting tin kettles and tooting to make a terrific bray of discordant sound, and thus usher in the fair.Teddy Rowe’s band is the name of a lively and noisy parade, which until 1964, regularly ushered in Pack Monday Fair. This Fair is held on the Monday following Old Michaelmas Day (October 10th); it is really St. Michael’s Fair, but it is far better known by its secondaryname of Pack Monday Fair. In the very early hours of the morning, soon after midnight, young people of both sexes marched through the sleeping town, blowing horns, bugles and whistles, hanging upon tin trays and frying-pans, and generally making as much discordant noise as possible. This was Teddy Rowe’s Band, which is locally believed to have heralded the Fair thus for nearly five centuries.Tradition says that the custom began in 1490 when, after the completion of the great fan vault in the nave of the Abbey Church, Abbot Peter Ramsam gave his masons a well-earned holiday, telling them to pack their tools and then go out and enjoy themselves. This they did with enthusiasm. They marched in triumph through the streets, blowing horns, and giving vent to their high spirits by shouting and marking cheerful noises of all kinds. In the years that followed, the town’s people are said to have repeated the lively Monday Fair. The Fair itself is supposed to have gained this name from the packing of the mason’s subsequent departure from the town.Whether this is the true explanation of the custom or not, it seems clear that Teddy Rowe’s Band existed for several centuries, and survived more than one attempt to suppress it. Now, however, its future is extremely uncertain. The parade was held as usual in 1963, but because of hooliganism and malicious damage on that occasion, it was banned by the police in1964, and this ban has since been annuallyrepeated. Only time will show whether, as now seems very likely, Sherborne has seen the last of Teddy Rowe and his customs elsewhere, this one will reappear in due course perhaps in a modified form.Until the middle of the last century London had its great Charter Fair at Smithfield, but that has now vanished, as have also the famous Gingerbread Fairs in Birmingham. If we bear in mind that the original purpose of these was the sale famous, then we can understand the origin of these names and others, such as Chertsey’s Onion Fair, which is fast vanishing but which was once one of the greatest markets near London. Perhaps an enlightened Urban Council will one day revive this Surrey festival. There is also the famous Nottingham Goose Fair.These are some of the interesting festivals which are part of English culture of the Britain. Many other festivals which make the English life more colorful exit in the Britain. These festivals can reflect part of the characteristic of the British, helping us to understand the British better.。
