分类目录大学英语四级

Section A
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

News Report 1
Police have reported a man being bitten by a 4-foot snake when he lifted his toilet seat on Sunday morning. The snake was not poisonous, so the man did not have to go to the hospital, but his arm was medically treated at the scene.
The police officer interviewed told news reporters the snake didn’t belong to the man, and it was unclear how it got into the apartment. The snake was eventually captured by the local animal handlers and taken to an animal hospital afterward. It was being treated for an outer skin infection. It was unclear who the owner was. The snake may be taken to a local zoo for care if the owner does not come forward.
Over the years, other creatures like frogs and fish have found their way into toilets. But this was the first instance of a snake in recent years.
Questions 1 and 2 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 1: What do we learn from the police report?
Question 2: What does the report say was still unclear?

1.
A) A man was bitten by a snake.
B) A man was taken to a hospital.
C) A man kept a 4-foot snake as a pet.
D) A man fell off his toilet seat.

2.
A) Where the snake had been taken.
B) Whether the snake was infected.
C) How the snake was captured.
D) Who owned the snake.

News Report 2
Every week since last April, Andrea Belcher has been doing something slightly unusual and amusing when she takes out her trash.
It all started off when a movie star shared a photo of herself putting her trash bins out in a ball gown. This inspired Andrea to get dressed up to take out the trash.
She was too embarrassed to do it during the day. So one dark evening, she put on her black off-the-shoulder gown and put her trash bin out. Her daughter filmed it and the whole family laughed, but it seemed to go down well.
The following weeks she found other outfits in her dressing-up box, and dressed up as different characters and famous people, sharing her exploits on social media. Before long, people started offering up their own fancy dresses for her to wear. And before she knew it, she had done 20 weeks.
Explaining why she has kept up the videos, Andrea explained how nice it was to have a little bit of fun and craziness that made people smile. Besides, it also helps to remind people in the community to put out their trash bins each week.
Questions 3 and 4 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 3: What has Andrea Belcher been doing since last April?
Question 4: Why has Andrea Belcher kept up her videos?

3.
A) Taking her trash out in fancy dresses.
B) Amusing herself by going to ball parties.
C) Sharing her photos with famous movie stars.
D) Posting her daughter’s photos on social media.

4.
A) To make herself popular.
B) To amuse people.
C) To please her daughter.
D) To record her achievements.

News Report 3
No money but still hungry? No problem. Welcome to Frank’s restaurant where customers are paying for meals and leaving receipts on a board. Anyone who is hungry and wants something to eat can take one, no questions asked and hand it to staff for some food.
The idea for the board of free meals started after a donor came in with $100 for each member of its staff. After two staffers returned their share, there was $700 leftover, according to Tarah Morris, the owner of the restaurant. So they decided to do something more by creating the board.
The board of free meals inside the restaurant shows a host of potential meals already paid for by customers, each costing about $10. The board has messages of kindness like, “If you want more kindness in the world, put it here.”
The drive has been going on for two weeks and Morris said just under 50 customers have picked up a free meal. There have been no reports of anyone taking advantage of the situation. In fact, there are a lot more people giving tickets than receiving. It seems people want to help and are driven by helping others.
Questions 5 to 7 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 5: What can people do at Frank’s restaurant?
Question 6: What does the owner of the restaurant say about the idea for the board of free meals?
Question 7: What has happened at Frank’s restaurant since the board of free meals was created?

5.
A) Eat as much as they want for $10.
B) Have a chance of winning a $100 prize.
C) Have a meal even if they have no money.
D) Get a free meal after answering some questions.

6.
A) It was brought up by two staffers.
B) It helped to popularize her restaurant.
C) It originated from a donation to her staff.
D) It was suggested by some of her customers.

7.
A) Fifty customers have offered donations.
B) More people have been giving than taking.
C) Many people have come to eat at the restaurant.
D) Most staffers have received messages of kindness.

Section B
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Conversation 1
W: Welcome to our program, Friends and Relationships. Our guest today is psychologist Steve Pinker from McGill University.
M: Glad to be here, Jane.
W: Hi Steve. Our question today is why friends suddenly disappear. They may block us on their social media accounts and stop responding to our emails. They simply vanish without a trace.
M: The answer may lie in childhood the way the person related to their mum and dad. It’s related to their attachment styles.
W: Attachment styles?
M: Yeah. There are two different attachment styles: an anxious attachment style and an avoidant attachment style. When there is a relationship breakdown with their parents, children with an anxious attachment style scream and cry to get their parents to come back. But other children simply shut down and try to deal with their emotions by ignoring the situation. And these attachment styles carry on into adulthood.
W: Does avoidance reduce their stress levels?
M: Not really. Their stress levels are actually the same as those experienced by the children who yell and scream.
W: And I assume both might be turned insecure.
W: Exactly. And it’s a very insecure attachment.
W: How does an insecure attachment affect relationships between friends, co-workers, and romantic relationships?
M: It’s the same as conflicts. So, if you have a disagreement with a securely attached person, they’re not going to panic. They’re able to hear what the other person is saying and express their own feelings and thoughts effectively. However, an insecurely attached person won’t. They might either attack you, get defensive, or just disappear from your life. To them, a difference, no matter how small in your eyes, signals the end of the relationship.
W: That explains why they suddenly disappear.
Questions 8 to 11 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 8: What do we learn about the man?
Question 9: What are the speakers mainly talking about?
Question 10: How do children with an anxious attachment style react to a breakdown in their relationship with parents?
Question 11: What does the man say about insecurely attached people?

8.
A) He is a psychologist.
B) He is a famous writer.
C) He is a host for a TV program.
D) He is a primary school teacher.

9.
A) Why social media accounts vanish without a trace.
B) Why parents raise their children in different ways.
C) Why people fail to respond to emails promptly.
D) Why friends break off contact all of a sudden.

10.
A) They simply shut themselves down.
B) They avoid showing their emotions.
C) They scream to get their parents back.
D) They attempt to ignore the whole situation.

11.
A) They may regard any difference as the end of a relationship.
B) They are on better terms with friends and romantic partners.
C) They try to express their feelings and thoughts effectively.
D) They attach more value to their relationships with others.

Conversation 2
M: I hear you’re going to Japan soon.
W: Yes, that’s right.
W: Could I ask you a favor?
W: Sure. What is it?
M: I was wondering if you could get me some jeans while you’re there. I’ll pay you back, of course.
W: A pair of jeans? Okay. I don’t see why not, but what’s wrong with jeans here?
M: Well, I just love good jeans and Japan happens to make the best in the world. My friend brought me a pair from there five years ago, and they still look new.
W: Really? I had no idea Japan made jeans. I would have thought America made the best jeans because it’s a typical American garment.
M: Yeah, I thought so too. But it tums out Japan still has some very old mills with the traditional weaving tools used to make jeans the original way. It’s a slower process of making clothing. But the end result is surely superior. Also, the fabric they use is of a higher quality and the dyes are natural. They have a denser weave and are more durable than any other genes in the world.
W: That sounds cool. What size do you want and how much are they?
M: I have a 34 waist and size 30 or 32 in length. Either is fine. They should be around $500. But make double certain they are made in Japan.
W: $500? Boy, that’s expensive. Do you typically spend that much on a pair of casual trousers?
M: They are a little pricey, yes. But they are very special. Bear in mind they will last me several years and they are very fashionable too. I think they’re totally worth it.
Questions 12 to 15 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 12: What makes the man choose to buy jeans made in Japan?
Question 13: Why is the woman puzzled by the man’s request?
Question 14: What does the man say about the dyes of Japanese jeans?
Question 15: What does the man say about Japanese jeans at the end of the conversation?

12.
A) Their price.
B) Their color.
C) Their quality.
D) Their design.

13.
A) Jeans are a typical American garment.
B) America makes the best-known brands of jeans.
C) America has the best weaving tools in the world.
D) Jeans are available in a greater variety in America.

14.
A) They are artificial.
B) They are natural.
C) They are unique.
D) They are special.

15.
A) They are for casual wearing.
B) They are popular with boys.
C) They are much too pricey.
D) They are worth the price.

Section C
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Passage 1
Every time I walk out of a superhero movie, I feel the same way. I experience a sense of longing, realizing that there should be more in life. The desire for adventure is a human one. Superhero films capture this desire perfectly.
The plot of each superhero film has become relatively predictable. The world is in peril. The world needs a hero. The hero is in peril. The hero resolves the peril. The hero saves the world. Each film has an attractive lead, several expensive explosions, a few jokes to lighten the mood, and numerous punches that land unrealistically well. Even though we basically know what will happen, we keep coming back for more.
The elites of our society have rejected superhero films. They say the films lack any form of artistry. These movies are criticized as being too simple, but they give the fans what they want – entertainment.
No matter the form in which they reveal themselves, hero stories will always be present in life. It’s not just about being entertained, but also being inspired. One author has mentioned that women desire to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure. Most young women want to be a part of something grand, something important. It seems clear that this principle applies to men, as well. So next time you see your favorite superhero film, be entertained, but also be inspired. Let that small longing you feel motivates you to make a difference.
Questions 16 to 18 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 16: How does the speaker feel every time he walks out of a superhero movie?
Question 17: What does the passage say about the plot of all superhero movies?
Question 18: What do the elites of American society think of superhero movies?

16.
A) He desires more in life.
B) He wants to see it again.
C) He feels as inspired as other audience members.
D) He longs to become a superstar himself.

17.
A) It is rather unrealistic.
B) It is extremely artistic.
C) It is somewhat complicated.
D) It is relatively predictable.

18.
A) They are biased against women.
B) They are basically misleading.
C) They are full of shootings.
D) They are too simple.

Passage 2
Telling stories is one of the most powerful means leaders have to influence, teach and inspire. Storytelling forges connections among people. When it comes to our countries, our communities, and our families, we understand instinctively that the stories we hold in common are an important part of the ties that bind.
This understanding also holds true in the business world, where an organization’s stories, and the stories its leaders tell, helps solidify relationships in a way that factual statements don’t.
Good stories do more than create a sense of connection. They build familiarity and trust. They allow the listener to enter the story, making them more open to learning. Good stories can contain multiple meanings so they’re surprisingly economical in conveying complex ideas in graspable ways. And stories are more engaging than the recital of data points or a discussion of abstract ideas.
Stories about professional mistakes and what leaders learned from them are another great avenue for learning. Because people identify so closely with stories, they can imagine how they would have acted in similar circumstances. They’re able to work through situations in a way that’s risk-free.
There are extra benefits for leaders. With a simple personal story, they can convey fundamental values. They can offer insight into the evolution of their own experience and knowledge, presenting themselves as more approachable. And then they are more likely to inspire others to want to know more.
Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 19: What does the passage say about storytelling?
Question 20: What can good stories do to listeners according to the passage?
Question 21: What can leaders do with a simple personal story?

19.
A) It can highlight leadership.
B) It can help connect people.
C) It is a means to inspire creative thinking.
D) It is an intuitive way to solidify friendship.

20.
A) Allow them to recite data points.
B) Make them more open to learning.
C) Enable them to remember the main idea.
D) Stimulate them to engage in discussions.

21.
A) Inspire listeners’ imagination.
B) Enrich their own experience.
C) Convey fundamental values.
D) Explain insightful ideas.

Passage 3
The U.S. was founded by successive waves of immigrants, and immigrants are still contributing to America today – statistics prove it. On two key measures of financial performance, immigrants outperform native-born Americans.
First, they’re more likely to be entrepreneurs. From 1996 to 2016, the pace at which immigrants started businesses was double that of U.S.-born individuals. Immigrants aren’t just becoming entrepreneurs more frequently. They are often succeeding. Over 40% of Fortune 500 companies had a founder who was either an immigrant or the child of one.
Another key measure of financial strength is debt level. Immigrants do better in this area too. Immigrants use credit less often for purchasing cars, homes, or starting businesses. This results in significantly lower levels of debt than native-born Americans. For example, 34% of Americans born in Latin America report no credit card or installment loan debt. This can be compared to just 19% of the general population.
Why are immigrants doing so well? The values and habits they bring from their own homelands help explain some of the success.
Unemployment tends to be higher in developing countries. That means more people must become entrepreneurs. Credit is also scarcer in most developing countries. This means individuals must save more in order to achieve their goals, or they borrow money from friends and family rather than a bank. That means less debt and potentially better credit outcomes when they reach the U.S.
Questions 22 to 25 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 22: What does the passage say statistics prove?
Question 23: What do we learn about immigrants in the U.S., compared with native-born Americans?
Question 24: What does the passage say about immigrants in the U.S. in terms of financial strength?
Question 25: What do immigrants do to achieve their goals in the U.S.?

22.
A) Immigrants outnumber U.S.-born Americans.
B) Immigrants have been contributing to the U.S.
C) Another wave of immigrants is hitting the U.S.
D) The number of immigrants to the U.S. is declining.

23.
A) More of them expect their children to succeed in business.
B) They have fewer chances to be hired by U.S. companies.
C) They have founded most Fortune 500 companies.
D) More of them are successful business people.

24.
A) They have higher installment loan debt than native-born Americans.
B) Nineteen percent of them borrow money from friends and family.
C) Their level of debt is lower than that of native-born Americans.
D) Thirty-four percent of them use credit for their daily purchases.

25.
A) Keep their traditional values and old habits.
B) Find employment in competitive businesses.
C) Borrow money from financial institutions.
D) Collaborate with native-born Americans.

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Section A
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

News Report 1
A woman was charged with allegedly violating a Rhode Island city law against feeding wild animals. The 55-year-old woman’s neighbors blame her for making the area’s rat problem worse.
Newly installed cameras captured several rats active in the middle of the day. Neighbors say that it’s even worse during the night. The woman and her parents, who owned the home, told reporters that she’s being charged for feeding birds.
“Who would have known just loving animals gets you that much trouble,” she said.
It is prohibited to feed any wild animals including birds in Rhode Island city. Nevertheless, while the woman’s intention was to feed birds, it is clear that rats were also benefiting.
Anthony Moretti, director of the city administration, said he saw more than 20 rats near the woman’s home. He said it will take months to get the problem under control.
Questions 1 and 2 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Qugstion 1: What do we learn from the report about the 55-year-old woman?
Question 2: What did the director of the city administration say at the end of the news report?

1.
A) She was involved in a conflict with bird lovers.
B) She was charged with mistreating animals.
C) She was on bad terms with her neighbors.
D) She was accused of violating a city law.

2.
A) It will take time to solve the rat problem.
B) All wild animals should be well protected.
C) The woman was not to blame for the situation.
D) No one should go unpunished for violating law.

News Report 2
To prepare for eventually sending astronauts to Mars, NASA began taking applications Friday for four people to live for a year in Mars Dune Alpha. That’s a 1,700-square-foot Martian habitat inside a building in Houston. The paid volunteers will work in an environment similar to Mars. They will have limited communications with family, restricted food and resources. NASA is planning three experiments with the first one starting in the fall next year. Food will all be ready-to-eat space food. Some plants will be grown, but not potatoes like in the movie “The Martian”.
“We want to understand how humans perform in them,” said lead scientists Grace Douglas. “We are looking at Mars realistic situations.”
The application process opened Friday and they’re not seeking just anybody. The requirements are strict, including a master’s degree in a science, engineering or math field or pilot experience. Only American citizens or permanent U.S. residents are acceptable. Applicants must be between 30 and 55 and in good physical health.
Attitude is key, said former Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield. He said the participants need to be super competent, resourceful, and not relying on other people to feel comfortable.
Questions 3 and 4 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 3: What does NASA require the paid volunteers to do?
Question 4: What will the participants in the project eat?

3.
A) Communicate with astronauts in Mars Dune Alpha.
B) Work in an environment resembling Mars.
C) Build a Martian habitat in Houston.
D) Send in applications before Friday.

4.
A) Ready-made food.
B) Food that is organic.
C) Food they grow.
D) Potatoes mostly.

News Report 3
A Japanese mayor apologized Thursday for biting the Olympic gold medal of a softball player. Nagoya mayor Takashi Kawamura had praised athlete Miu Goto during a public media event. He asked her to put the medal around his neck. Kawamura then bit into it. Biting a medal in front of journalists and photographers has become a common pose for Olympic medalists. However, it is only for the winners themselves, not others.
“I’m really sorry that I hurt the treasure of the gold medalist,” Kawamura told reporters Thursday. The mayor said the medal was undamaged, though he offered to pay for the cost of a new one. Goto, however, has accepted the International Olympic Committee’s offer of a replacement, according to Japanese media reports.
The scene broadcast on television prompted thousands of complaints to city hall. Some Olympians said they treat their medals as treasures and that it was disrespectful and unacceptable for Kawamura to bite one.
“I would cry if that happened to me,” said another athlete, Naohisa Takato. “I handle my own gold medal so gently that I would not scratch it.”
Questions 5 to 7 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 5: What does the news report say about the Japanese mayor Takashi Kawamura?
Question 6: What did Mayor Takashi Kawamura offer to do?
Question 7: What did some Olympians say they would do with their medals?

5.
A) He apologized for scratching an athlete’s gold medal.
B) He was asked to present a gold medal to Miu Goto.
C) He bit a softball player’s Olympic gold medal.
D) He attracted public attention at a media event.

6.
A) Have another picture taken with the Olympic medalist.
B) Apologize to the International Olympic Committee.
C) Get the damaged medal repaired.
D) Pay for the cost of a new medal.

7.
A) Allow no one to touch them.
B) See them as symbols of honor.
C) Treat them as treasures.
D) Keep them in a safe place.

Section B
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Conversation 1
M: What’s that orange thing on your computer screen?
W: It’s something I bought yesterday. It’s a plastic sheet that blocks blue light. I have one that I use to cover my phone screen too.
M: What do you mean by blue light?
W: Blue light includes natural light, but it also includes light that isn’t natural. For example, from computers, phones, televisions, and other electronic devices.
M: So, blue light is harmful and that’s why you want to block it?
W: It isn’t that simple. Blue light isn’t necessarily bad for us. In fact, we need blue light during the day to be healthy, but too much blue light, especially from electronic devices, can harm our health by weakening our vision and making it harder for us to fall asleep. And poor sleep can cause all sorts of health problems.
M: I’m not so sure that sleep is nearly as important as people always say it is. I haven’t slept enough in months because I have too much work to do and I feel fine, and it’s the same for most of my friends. Poor sleep might be a problem for old people, but surely young people can handle late nights.
W: Well, the research I’ve read shows that sleep is probably even more important than we thought, and that not having enough sleep can contribute to serious health problems like obesity and heart disease. And all the artificial blue light from electronic devices means we have to try harder to sleep well.
M: Maybe you’re right. I’m on my computer very late most nights, and that’s probably why I don’t sleep enough.
Questions 8 to 11 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 8: What did the woman do to her computer?
Question 9: What does the woman say about blue light?
Question 10: Why does the man say he hasn’t slept enough for months?
Question 11: What has the woman learned from the research she has read?

8.
A) She covered its screen with a plastic sheet.
B) She connected it with her smart phone.
C) She decorated it with colorful stickers.
D) She bought some new software for it.

9.
A) It may not be simply blue.
B) It includes unnatural light.
C) It is more harmful to young people.
D) It induces people to fall asleep.

10.
A) He has had much trouble falling asleep.
B) He has had some sort of health problems.
C) He has stayed up playing computer games.
D) He has been burdened with excessive work.

11.
A) Exposure to blue light is the chief cause of obesity.
B) Sleep may be more important than people assumed.
C) Sleep may also be negatively affected by natural light.
D) Overuse of electronic devices may cause heart disease.

Conversation 2
W: As a kid did you know what job you wanted to do when you grew up?
M: No, I didn’t. And I got sick every time adults asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up.
W: It’s the same with me. And I’m tired of people asking that question of my 10-year-old daughter. My daughter’s stock answers are basketball player, pop singer, mechanical engineer. Adults love that last one as it’s the perfect mix of the sensible and the ambitious. When she was much younger, my daughter used to say she wanted to be queen of the clouds, which I loved. That’s the kind of goal setting I like to see in children, springing from their boundless imaginations.
M: Yes, we grown-ups can be tedious and limiting in our need for reality. And we teach a very gloomy image of adulthood that whatever our children’s future holds, it must be seen within the context of a job.
W: How utterly overwhelming and dull!
M: When people ask my son what he wants to be when he grows up, I have to swallow the urge to say, “Hey, back off my kid’s dreams.”
W: We can’t dismiss the idea that teenagers have to plan to do something after they finish school, and parents are entitled to hope it’s more than simply spending 10 hours a day playing computer games.
M: But asking, “What do you want to be?” isn’t going to lead a child to a fulfilled life, rather, leads to false expectations and a high chance of disappointment.
W: Exactly. We should be helping our kids understand who they are, even if that means letting go of who we think they should be.
Questions 12 to 15 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 12: What question were both speakers fed up with when they were kids?
Question 13: What occupation do adults see as both sensible and ambitious according to the woman?
Question 14: What kind of goal setting does the woman like to see in children?
Question 15: What does the woman suggest adults should do?

12.
A) What they wanted to be when grown up.
B) What their favorite cartoon character was.
C) What they learned from computer games.
D) What they liked to do most after school.

13.
A) A stock broker.
B) A pop singer.
C) A mechanical engineer.
D) A basketball player.

14.
A) Ambitious.
B) Sensible.
C) Imaginative.
D) Practical.

15.
A) Relax their strict control of their kids.
B) Help their kids understand themselves.
C) Impose their own dreams on their kids.
D) Dismiss their high expectations of their kids.

Section C
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Passage 1
Greater Internet access correlates directly with improved healthcare, education and economic development. People living in rural areas, however, lag behind in online use, which limits their access to government services, banking, and job opportunities.
Nowhere is this challenge clearer than in Africa. Most Africans live in rural areas that are tough to wire for internet access.
Now, some phone companies are trying to introduce Internet-ready phones into African markets. Certain companies have started selling simple smartphones for only $20. Previously, the lowest price had been around $40, well out of reach for many people.
These devices are powered by software from the giant electronics company, KaiOS Technologies Limited. Most companies are trying to make phones ever more powerful and capable, but KaiOS went the other way. It made every effort to keep the essential capabilities of smartphones, but strip out costs and preserve battery life for people who likely have inadequate access to electricity.
The KaiOS devices offer an alternative to the more expensive models that remain out of reach to many Africans and contribute to the digital divide. The body of KaiOS phones is as basic as it gets. Instead of a touchscreen, they’re controlled with an old-school keypad. They’re designed for 3G networks because 4G coverage doesn’t reach two thirds of Africa’s customers. In total, KaiOS phones are made from about $15 worth of parts, while Apple’s top of the line iPhone has $390 worth of stuff.
Questions 16 to 18 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 16: What are a number of phone companies trying to do in Africa?
Question 17: How do KaiOS smartphones differ from smartphones of most other companies?
Question 18: What are KaiOS smartphones equipped with?

16.
A) Set up company branches.
B) Improve its infrastructure.
C) Introduce iPhones into its markets.
D) Promote Internet-ready phones.

17.
A) They cater to Africans’ needs.
B) They are more expensive models.
C) They are more powerful and capable.
D) They boast the longest battery life.

18.
A) A large touchscreen.
B) An old-school keypad.
C) A voice-response device.
D) A digitally-designed system.

Passage 2
For years, using recycled plastic to make plastic products was cheap. By contrast, fossil fuel plastic was more expensive. Thus, the sustainable option was an economic option too. But now it is cheaper for major manufacturers to use new plastic.
According to one recent business report, recycled plastic now costs an extra $72 a tonne compared with newly made plastic. This may be because of consumer demands. They are pushing for more recycled plastics in new products. Meanwhile, new plastic is becoming cheaper. This is because of a boom in petroleum chemical production from the U.S.
The price increase of recycled plastic could cost sustainable manufacturers an extra $250 million a year. Smaller manufacturers may also be forced to use new plastic to reduce costs. Makers of clear plastic bottles may also opt for new fossil-fuel based plastic to save money. Plastic packaging makers are being pressured to use more recycled plastic. This is done in hopes of reducing the enormous amount of plastic pollution in the oceans.
The UK government plans to tax companies which don’t use at least 30% recycled plastic in their products. Additionally, the government is planning to increase the quantity of recycled plastic in the market. This could mean incentives for new recycling plants. Additionally, recycling facilities may be improved at a local council level and recycled plastic could be imported. This would help increase the amount of recycled plastic in circulation.
Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 19: What is said about using recycled plastic to make plastic products in the past?
Question 20: What has led to a more competitive price for new plastic?
Question 21: What does the UK government plan to do about plastic?

19.
A) It ensured sustainable economic growth.
B) It was strongly opposed by manufacturers.
C) It was cheaper than using fossil fuel plastic.
D) It satisfied consumer demands on the whole.

20.
A) The capacity to mass produce it.
B) The U.S. federal government’s regulations.
C) A boom in market demand for clear plastic bottles.
D) A rapid increase in U.S. petroleum chemical production.

21.
A) Require companies to use 30% of new plastic.
B) Increase the supply of new plastic in the market.
C) Reduce the amount of plastic pollution in local areas.
D) Take measures to promote the use of recycled plastic.

Passage 3
At the Dreamery, a business in Manhattan, naps are for sale. A 45-minute session in a darkened enclosure with peace and quiet costs $25. To be clear, this institution is no hotel. This is a nap joint. It sells the idea of the nap as much as the nap itself.
Is a nap worth $25? The answer is obviously yes. Here, at this point in the argument, it’s traditional for me to bring up all the studies that show the benefits of napping. But do you really need experts to tell you that? Just look at the world around you at 2:30 in the afternoon.
I’ve been working from home for more than 10 years now. And the quality and quantity of work I can do emerges directly from my ability to concentrate. I don’t understand how people have creative careers without napping. Every day at about 1 p.m., everyone faces the same choice: sleep until 2 p.m. and then work until 5 or daydream and drift around social media and attend pointless meetings until 7 p.m.
The friends I have who still work in offices inform me that bosses insist they take the second option and that napping is associated with laziness. I genuinely find it odd, for if you nap properly, it’s like waking up from a full night’s sleep and you can double your day’s worth of concentration.
Questions 22 to 25 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 22: What do we learn about the Dreamery, a business in Manhattan?
Question 23: Why does the speaker ask us to look at the world around us at 2:30 in the afternoon?
Question 24: What do we learn about the quantity and quality of the speaker’s work?
Question 25: What does the speaker say he finds odd?

22.
A) It studies dreams.
B) It rents a place for nap-takers.
C) It is a hotel for business people.
D) It is a nap research institute.

23.
A) To find out creative people’s work performance.
B) To see how many people can go without napping.
C) To understand the obvious importance of napping.
D) To feel how difficult it is to get his idea across.

24.
A) They decline due to pointless meetings.
B) They depend on his ability to concentrate.
C) They enable him to enjoy a creative career.
D) They are affected by the overuse of social media.

25.
A) Some bosses associate napping with laziness.
B) Many office workers nap during work hours.
C) Some bosses can concentrate without napping.
D) Many of his friends daydream in the office.

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2022年09月英语四级第1套听力原文及题目

Section A
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

News Report 1
White meat, such as chicken, may raise blood cholesterol levels as much as red meat does. This finding surprised researchers, who admitted they didn’t expect that eating white meat would lead to higher blood cholesterol levels. In the study, researchers looked at 113 healthy people. The participants ate three different diets. These were a red meat diet which is primarily beef, a white meat diet which is mostly chicken and turkey, and a vegetarian protein diet. Each diet period was four weeks. Between the diet periods, participants had a break, during which they ate their regular foods. In addition, participants had blood tests at the start and finish of each new diet. The results showed that white and red meat diets had the same effects on blood cholesterol levels. Further, both diets increased blood cholesterol levels compared with the diet built on vegetarian protein sources. The team acknowledged that it is possible that white meat is better for our health than red meat despite their findings. This is because other effects of red meat consumption could contribute to heart disease independent of cholesterol. Their main recommendations are that people eat less of both kinds of meat and more vegetarian protein.
Questions 1 and 2 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 1: What do we learn from the news report about the study?
Question 2: What did the researchers acknowledge?

1.
A) It examines the effect of cholesterol on people’s health.
B) Its participants all had high blood cholesterol levels.
C) It questions the benefits of a vegetarian protein diet.
D) Its finding came as a surprise to the researchers.

2.
A) They do not know all the effects of eating meat.
B) Red meat itself does not cause heart diseases.
C) White meat may be healthier than red meat.
D) Vegetarian protein may be easier to absorb.

News Report 2
At around half past nine this morning, a trailer attached to a lorry turned over at the crossing of High Street in Milton. Hundreds of frozen turkeys were spilled all over the road. It is reported that nobody was hurt in the incident, but police said it may affect traffic and Christmas dinners. With just one week to go before Christmas, there are worries that local supermarket supplies of this holiday favorite may be affected. A police spokeswoman said that officers were currently in attendance at the scene. She stated that the driver of the lorry had been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving. The crossing on High Street is a well-known accident blackspot. This year alone, there have been seven traffic accidents at this location. Thankfully, none of these accidents have resulted in serious injury.
Questions 3 and 4 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 3: What does the news report say about the accident at the crossing of High Street in Milton?
Question 4: What do we learn about the crossing on High Street?

3.
A) It may have been due to the lorry driver’s drunk driving.
B) It may affect the local supply of turkeys for Christmas.
C) It interrupted traffic for several hours running.
D) It was caused by a lorry running into a trailer.

4.
A) It has been the scene of several fatal accidents recently.
B) It is the spot that causes the local police a lot of worry.
C) It has witnessed several traffic accidents this year.
D) It is a location frequented by local traffic police.

News Report 3
India launched its helicopter taxi service on Monday, promising to ferry customers the 40 miles between Bangalore’s Electronic City tech hub and the International Airport terminal in 15 minutes. Customers can book their helicopter ride through a mobile app. The service, which claims to be the first of its kind in India, offers only one route, but Bangalore airport will add more once it gets approval. Helicopter taxi is not an affordable option for many travelers. A car ride for the same journey costs less than half as much. But Bangalore airport says it is a competitive alternative to a car ride for tech executives in a hurry. “A large number of high-class travelers, including CEOs, have to spend more than three hours by road to get there — and that is a loss of time,” a Bangalore airport spokesperson said. “This is not a low cost option, but it is an option,” she added. The helicopters ferried around eight customers to the airport on their first day. The company that owns and operates the service is called Thumby Aviation. It previously specialized in private charter flights for government officials.
Questions 5 to 7 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 5: What is Bangalore airport trying to do about the helicopter taxi service?
Question 6: What do we learn from the news report about the helicopter taxi ride?
Question 7: Who are the targeted customers of the helicopter taxi service?

5.
A) Get approval to add more routes.
B) Attract more international tourists.
C) Advertise it through a mobile app.
D) Make it affordable to common folk.

6.
A) It costs more than twice as much as a car ride.
B) It is gaining popularity among ordinary Indians.
C) It symbolizes India’s advancement in high-tech.
D) It can get anywhere in the city within 15 minutes.

7.
A) International tourists.
B) High-class travelers.
C) Prominent superstars.
D) Customers in a hurry.

Section B
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Conversation 1
W: Hi, I wish to buy some cheese for a barbecue this weekend.
M: What kind would you like?
W: Sorry, I don’t know much about cheese. What type do you think would be suitable for a barbecue?
M: That’s easy! For a barbecue, you could have any cheese you want. I imagine there will be different foods and people will just help themselves and eat at their own pace, right?
W: Yes, exactly. It will be very casual. We will just be a small group of friends gathering together at Washington Park. There will be around 20 of us, including children.
M: Great! So you could have different types of cheese. How much would you like to spend?
W: Not very much. Let’s say $30.
M: I would suggest having at least one soft cheese and one hard cheese. That will offer you a good variety to suit different people’s tastes.
W: That sounds good. What’s the difference between a soft cheese and a hard cheese?
M: Well, it depends. But generally speaking, soft cheeses are creamy and go well with sweet things like honey and jam. I would suggest something like this Spanish goat cheese. It’s only $15, a very good price. You can spread it on bread with a knife, and then add a tiny bit of honey on top. It’s delicious. Children love it.
W: Okay, great. What about a hard cheese?
M: Yes, for hard cheese, I would recommend this Italian one here. It has a very strong smell and a dry flavor. You can cut it into thin slices and eat it on its own. It’s $16.
W: Okay, I’ll take both. Thank you for your help.
Questions 8 to 11 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 8: What does the woman plan to do for the weekend?
Question 9: What does the man suggest the woman do?
Question 10: What does the man say about Spanish Goat Cheese?
Question 11: What is the woman going to do at the end of the conversation?

8.
A) Treat her friends in a bar.
B) Take a trip to Washington.
C) Make some cheese.
D) Throw a party.

9.
A) Spend no more than 30 dollars.
B) Buy different kinds of cheese.
C) Help him prepare the barbecue.
D) Find out different people’s tastes.

10.
A) It is the best kind of hard cheese.
B) It is the most popular in Spain.
C) It is more delicious than honey.
D) It is a good choice for children.

11.
A) Buy what the man recommended.
B) Have a taste of both of the cheeses.
C) Choose one of the two types of cheese.
D) Ask the man to cut the cheese into slices.

Conversation 2
M: Our school is replacing printed textbooks with e-textbooks next semester. I can’t wait.
W: Really? What about the cost, not only buying all those tablets, but the software and electronic infrastructure that goes with it, not to mention retraining all the teachers and administration staff?
M: Sure, the initial expenditure will be high, but much lower afterwards. Besides that, tablet prices continue to drop and are becoming increasingly affordable. Anyway, tablets help students learn up to 80% faster.
W: Not necessarily. Tablets have too many distractions. Students may pay attention to apps, games and websites instead of their teachers. In fact, research suggests that people who read printed text comprehend more, remember more and learn 30% more than those who read digital text.
M: Yes. But tablets contain many technological features that are not found in printed textbooks. Think about it. Students are able to highlight and edit text, write notes and search for information much more quickly than they can with printed textbooks. And what about all those trees that are cut down to make printed books?
W: Actually, manufacturing tablets is environmentally destructive and dangerous to human health. The health impacts from making one electronic reader are 70 times greater than those from making a single printed book. A lot of minerals are extracted from the earth to make electronic readers. It does far more damage to the environment.
M: Yes. But the software for electronic readers can be updated instantly without the need for buying a whole lot of new books. That’s better for the environment.
W: But the core curriculum doesn’t change that much. Printed textbooks that are not brand new, still contain the basic relevant information of core subjects.
M: Well, I’m looking forward to the change.
W: I’ll stick with my printed books.
Questions 12 to 15 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 12: What does the woman say about using E-textbooks?
Question 13: According to the man, how can the use of tablets benefit students?
Question 14: What does the woman say about students using tablets?
Question 15: What does the woman say about making electronic readers?

12.
A) New teachers and staff have to be recruited.
B) It might take some time for students to adapt.
C) It involves buying lots of tablets and software.
D) The software has to be constantly upgraded.

13.
A) It can greatly improve their learning efficiency.
B) It can help them to interact more with teachers.
C) It can save their trouble of carrying printed books.
D) It can develop their skills in using electronic devices.

14.
A) They may have trouble comprehending texts.
B) They may encounter technological problems.
C) They may pay less respect to teachers.
D) They may get distracted more easily.

15.
A) It generates a great deal of electronic garbage.
B) It does a lot of damage to the environment.
C) It emits huge amounts of harmful radiation.
D) It accelerates the exhaustion of rare minerals.

Section C
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Passage 1
In social psychology, the term “person perception” refers to the mental processes that we use to form impressions of other people. It includes not just how we form these impressions, but the conclusions we make about other people based on our impressions. Consider how often you make this kind of judgment every day. When you meet with a new coworker, you immediately begin to develop an initial impression of this person. When you visit the grocery store, you might draw conclusions about the cashier who checks you out. Obviously, person perception is a very subjective process that can be affected by a number of variables, including the characteristics of the person you are observing, the context of the situation, your own personal traits, and your past experiences. One of the techniques we use in person perception is social categorization. In this process, we mentally categorize people into different groups based on common characteristics. Problems with this technique include the fact that it can lead to errors and prejudice. Imagine that you are getting on a bus. There are only two seats available. One is next to a small, elderly woman; the other is next to a muscular, fierce-looking man. You sit next to the elderly woman, who unfortunately turns out to be quite skilled at picking pockets. Because of social categorization, you immediately judge the woman as harmless, and the man as threatening, leading to the loss of your wallet.
Questions 16 to 18 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 16: What does the passage say we tend to do every day?
Question 17: What do we learn about person perception from this passage?
Question 18: What is the problem with using social categorization in person perception?

16.
A) Communicate with our coworkers.
B) Encounter people in different places.
C) Judge people based on our first impressions.
D) Engage in a variety of psychological activities.

17.
A) It is an objective evaluation of a person’s character.
B) It is a mental process influenced by many factors.
C) It contributes to the formation of personal traits.
D) It varies greatly among different social groups.

18.
A) It can lead to incorrect judgments.
B) It can cause mistrust among people.
C) It can result in instant losses.
D) It can give rise to gender bias.

Passage 2
Despite smartphones and social media, young people today are as socially competent as those from the previous generation. At least this is what a new study suggests. For the study, researchers compared teacher and parent evaluations of American children who started kindergarten in 1998, with those who began school in 2010. The former group entered kindergarten when mobile phones were luxuries. The latter group started school when mobile devices were widespread. Results showed both groups of children were rated similarly on important social skills. These included their ability to form and maintain friendships and get along with people who are different. They were also rated similarly on self-control, such as the ability to regulate their temper. In virtually every comparison made, ratings of social skills either remain constant or improved for the children born later. There was one exception: Social skills were slightly lower for children who accessed online games and social networking sites many times a day. Adults are worried when technological change starts to undermine traditional relationships, particularly the parent-child relationship. The introduction of telephones, automobiles and radio all led to moral panic among adults of the time, because the technology allowed children to enjoy more freedom. Fears over screen-based technology represent the most recent panic in response to technological change. But overall, the study found little evidence that time spent on screens was hurting social skills for most children.
Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 19: What does the news study suggest about young people today and those from the previous generation?
Question 20: What did the study find about children who accessed social networking sites many times a day?
Question 21: What is adults’ worry about technological change?

19.
A) Both groups spend a lot of time on mobile devices.
B) Both groups attach importance to social connections.
C) They are equally competent in using new technology.
D) They are similar in terms of social skills.

20.
A) Their social skills were negatively affected.
B) Their school performance was slightly lower.
C) Their emotions were much harder to regulate.
D) Their relations with peers were badly strained.

21.
A) It may pose a threat to their children’s safety.
B) It may affect society’s traditional values.
C) It may hurt their relations with children.
D) It may change their children’s ethical values.

Passage 3
It’s easy to spend all day searching for inspiration. You can find incredible videos, articles and news stories about the success of others. The problem is that consuming the success and ideas of others is passive inspiration. Every time you read an article or listen to an interview, you’re practicing passive inspiration. You might learn something, but you don’t actually have to do anything. Hearing about other people’s success isn’t the same as creating your own. Instead, it is through the process of active inspiration the act of creating things, applying new ideas to our goals, and making mistakes, that we discover who we are and what is important to us. Furthermore, active inspiration is what results in long-term passion and enthusiasm. Watching someone else’s success might leave you feeling excited for a few minutes. However, taking action and applying a new idea to your life will inspire you more than anything someone else can say. Learning and listening can help you think about things in a different way. But creating, producing, and experimenting is what drives you forward. Passive inspiration can give you ideas, but active inspiration will give you power. Too often we spend our lives consuming the world around us instead of creating it. And what matters is the power your actions have to inspire you. The best inspiration comes from the application of ideas, not the consumption of them.
Questions 22 to 25 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 22: What does the speaker say about inspiration from consuming others’ ideas and success stories?
Question 23: What do we learn from the passage about active inspiration?
Question 24: What does the passage say passive inspiration can do?
Question 25: Where does the best inspiration come from according to the passage?

22.
A) It is motivating.
B) It is passive.
C) It is incredible.
D) It is impracticable.

23.
A) It results in short-term excitement.
B) It helps us avoid making mistakes.
C) It breeds long-term passion and enthusiasm.
D) It is bound to help us achieve greater success.

24.
A) Drive us forward.
B) Bring us power.
C) Spur us to action.
D) Give us ideas.

25.
A) Listening to success stories.
B) Applying ideas to one’s life.
C) Following the advice of experts.
D) Consuming the world around us.

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2022年12月英语四级第1套听力原文及题目

Section A
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

News Report 1
Operations at one of Australia’s largest gold mines had to be temporarily suspended on Friday after a partial wall collapse at one of the mine’s dams. The wall collapse at the Cadia mine came just a few days after two earthquakes hit the area. The damage to the dam wall was noticed in the late afternoon on Friday when workers found a section of the northern dam wall had collapsed into the southern dam. The dams contain waste products of mining and can contain materials which are harmful to the environment and human health. The dams are generally constructed using earth-fill and are gradually raised over time. The company was unable to confirm whether the recent earthquakes had contributed to the dam’s wall collapse, but said it was conducting a thorough investigation. A company spokesperson said the operations at the site had been halted while the investigation is ongoing and that the break had posed no safety threat to workers.
Questions 1 and 2 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 1: What happened at one of Australia’s largest gold mines?
Question 2: What did the spokesperson say about the incident?

1.
A) Part of its dam wall collapsed.
B) It released a lot of harmful gases.
C) It was destroyed by an earthquake.
D) Some miners were trapped underground.

2.
A) It posed a safety threat to the miners.
B) It caused damage too heavy to assess.
C) It brought the mine’s operations to a halt.
D) It was followed by two more earthquakes.

News Report 2
Two boys and four girls were born on Monday to the surprise of a young couple and doctors who had expected five babies. This was the first record of six babies being born at the same time in that region. The doctors prepared from early in the morning to help deliver five tiny citizens. They were in the operating room with five teams of doctors, one for each baby. The first five babies were delivered successfully, and all baby beds were occupied. And then all of a sudden, it turned out there was another waiting to come out. The doctor said the babies were in healthy condition, but could not go home immediately. They needed to stay in the hospital for two to three months for medical supervision. The mother who is in stable condition could return home a day later if all physical tests came back normal. The babies’ mother commented that they had already prepared room for five babies at home, so they will have to rearrange things for their happy surprise. The new parents have yet to name the sixth baby but are considering either Lily or Rose.
Questions 3 and 4 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 3: What did the hospital do for the delivery of the babies?
Question 4: What did the doctor say about the newborns?

3.
A) It prepared beds for all the six new citizens.
B) It assigned a team of doctors for each expected baby.
C) It made ample preparations for various possibilities.
D) It brought in the most advanced instruments.

4.
A) They had to undergo 2-3 physical checkups.
B) They were all of normal size except the sixth.
C) They could go home together with their mother a day later.
D) They needed to stay in the hospital for a couple of months.

News Report 3
A Spanish island called Palmador has been bought by a family from Europe for 18 million euros. The island is often described as heaven on earth by holidaymakers. For decades tourists have been flocking to Palmador, which is located off the southeast coast of Spain. They come to enjoy its unspoiled beaches and crystal clear waters. Its natural beauty is protected as it lies inside a natural park. Although Palmador is one of the most famous private islands in the world, its seafront is public land and is a favorite destination for famous people. When the island was put up for sale, it was offered to the local government but proved too expensive for the local authorities. It is unclear whether the new owners have the power to ban tourists from the island. But with their newfound luxury comes the responsibility for its protection and maintenance. The island is less than two miles long and half a mile wide. It is said to have a remarkable location that few other private islands of this size can match, according to estate agents. Palmador is the perfect place to retreat to, somewhere to get away from the city noise and relax in beautiful surroundings with zero stress.
Questions 5 to 7 are based on the news report you have just heard.
Question 5: What do we learn from the news report about the Spanish island Palmador?
Question 6: What do holidaymakers come to Palmador to enjoy?
Question 7: What do estate agents say about Palmador?

5.
A) It is owned by the local government.
B) It has been turned into a public park.
C) It has been bought by an American.
D) It is a perfect tourist destination.

6.
A) Its seafood.
B) Its unusual coastline.
C) Its unspoiled beaches.
D) Its architecture.

7.
A) It has an unmatched location.
B) It is worth over 18 million euros.
C) It has beautiful weather all year round.
D) It is an ideal place to meet famous stars.

Section B
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Conversation 1
M: Hi, Christie’s Gym Center. How can I help you?
W: Hi, I’m calling to ask about the newly scheduled gym classes. I’m just wondering if I can get a discount on them.
M: Are you already a member?
W: Yes, I signed up two months ago, but I haven’t been to any of the group classes yet.
M: Can I take your name please?
W: Yes. My name is Carol Friedman.
M: Carol Friedman. That’s right. And you signed up two months ago. Currently we are offering existing members discounts off two of our brand new classes, hot yoga, and advanced spinning, but the discount doesn’t apply to any of our regular classes I’m afraid.
W: I’m only interested in the new classes. So how much of a discount is there on these two new classes?
M: The same discount of 20% is being offered to everyone at the door on a “first come, first served” basis for the first month. It’s a shame you missed out on the general discount.
W: I see.
M: But you can get 25% off if you sign up in advance. Which of the two classes are you thinking about?
W: Well, I guess I am only really interested in hot yoga. Can you sign me up for the 10-week course on Thursday evenings?
M: Sure. Would you prefer to pay in advance?
W: No, I don’t like giving my card details over the phone anyway.
M: Okay, then. As you are already a member, the fee of the class will just be added to your monthly bill.
W: That’s perfect. Thanks for your help.
M: See you Thursday.
Questions 8 to 11 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 8: What do we learn about the woman from the conversation?
Question 9: What is the gym center doing right now?
Question 10: What does the man say is a pity for the woman?
Question 11: Why is the woman unwilling to pay in advance?

8.
A) She has been attending some group classes.
B) She has registered for two new gym classes.
C) She became a member of the gym two months ago.
D) She is entitled to a discount on all the gym exercises.

9.
A) Considering the promotion of its regular classes.
B) Taking measures to expand its exercise programs.
C) Recruiting coaches for hot yoga and advanced spinning.
D) Offering existing members a discount off two new classes.

10.
A) She missed the deadline for the 10-week course.
B) She missed out on the gym’s general discount.
C) She didn’t sign up for membership in time.
D) She wasn’t so much interested in hot yoga.

11.
A) She doesn’t want to reveal her card details over the phone.
B) She doesn’t think it wise to pay before attending any class.
C) She might have to cancel her registration any minute.
D) She prefers to have the fee added to her monthly bill.

Conversation 2
M: Well, I think that was quite a successful trip in the end. Don’t you think, Jenny?
W: Absolutely. There are lots of great potential markets here in China. So I’m sure that the head office in London will be pleased once we get back and present our research.
M: Okay. We’ve got a bit of spare time now. Can we discuss the return trip to the head office?
W: Sure. I’ve checked the availability of flights from Beijing to London on the 22nd and you have a choice. There’s a flight arriving the following morning, with a two-hour stopover in Dubai, or a flight arriving at 11:30 in the evening, with a five-hour stopover in Amsterdam.
M: Right. Well, that’s obvious then, isn’t it?
W: Okay, so that’s Dubai. I’ve booked a room in a hotel about a mile from the office. The nearest metro station is Earl’s Court.
M: Great. Can you find a map that shows where the hotel is and send it to me online? I’ve never been to the head office, you know. I want to see if I can get one of those rental bicycles and ride to the office just for fun. For the presentation, I’ll bring my own laptop and hook it up to their projector. Do you remember the capacity of their meeting room?
W: No, but I’ll check.
M: Just one more thing. I’ll pay everything with my own card, right? And I’ll submit my claims form afterwards.
W: No problem. Just remember to keep all your receipts. You remember the trouble you had last time.
M: Oh, don’t remind me.
Questions 12 to 15 are based on the conversation you have just heard.
Question 12: Why are the speakers in China?
Question 13: Where will the man stop over on his way to London?
Question 14: What does the man ask the woman to do?
Question 15: What did the woman remind the man to do at the end of the conversation?

12.
A) To make investments.
B) To sign a business contract.
C) To research new markets.
D) To open a new office.

13.
A) Dubai.
B) Beijing.
C) Amsterdam.
D) Earl’s Court.

14.
A) Rent a bike for him to get around the town.
B) Reserve a meeting room in the head office.
C) Help him prepare his presentation.
D) Send him a map of the hotel area.

15.
A) Bring his projector.
B) Keep all his receipts.
C) Submit his claims form.
D) Pay with his credit card.

Section C
Direction: 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 Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Passage 1
A new study has demonstrated the importance of women’s rights. The researchers behind the study state that many parts of the world have made good economic progress, but women’s rights are often overlooked. Thus, they wanted to determine if there was a link between protection of women’s rights and public health. The researchers analyzed databases which held information from 162 countries for the period 2004 to 2010. Countries were classified according to the respect they gave to women’s economic and social rights. There were three categories. They were high, moderate, and poor. Analysis of the data showed that countries with strong women’s rights had better health than those where women’s rights were not as respected. The health indicators studied included disease prevention, reproductive health, death rates, and life expectancy. Furthermore, in countries where women’s rights were most respected, but where access to hospitals and doctors was below average, health outcomes were still better than in countries rated as moderate or poor. This confirms that even with a lack of resources, if a country has strong women’s rights, the health outcomes are better. Thus, the researchers argued that gender equality is not just a women’s rights issue. It is also a development issue. This is because better health aids economic development. They note that the value of women’s rights has often been questioned from an economic standpoint. Some have argued that ensuring those rights would limit progress, but this study indicates the opposite.
Questions 16 to 18 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 16: What did the researchers of the new study try to determine?
Question 17: What does the passage say about countries lacking in medical resources?
Question 18: What has often been questioned regarding women’s rights?

16.
A) Whether a country’s educational level is linked to women’s rights.
B) Whether women’s rights are making good progress around the world.
C) Whether a country’s protection of women’s rights is related to its public health.
D) Whether women’s rights are more often overlooked in less-developed countries.

17.
A) Their people still have better health if women’s rights are respected.
B) They must make efforts to increase women’s access to health care.
C) Their people tend to attach importance to women’s rights.
D) They need to invest more in hospital staff and facilities.

18.
A) Their link with a country’s public health.
B) Their potential impact on social progress.
C) Their value to a country’s international image.
D) Their positive effect on economic development.

Passage 2
Sunshine and high temperatures can mean picnics and parks and trips to beaches, but they can make your body react in some strange ways. First, sunshine can actually affect your breath. You may think that summer is the perfect time to go on a date or chat with an attractive boy or girl. But excessive heat can cause you to lose water, which has been proven to have a pretty unattractive side effect — bad breath. When you are lacking water, your mouth becomes dry. Bacteria accumulate because there isn’t enough water in your mouth to wash it away. Sunshine can stop you from sweating, too. The body’s normal temperature is 36 to 37 degrees centigrade. But if it heats up to 40 to 41 degrees, you may find yourself getting heatstroke. At that point, your heat regulatory system can essentially quit, which stops you from sweating as your body tries to keep water around your vital organs. However, the sun can have a positive influence on your body by raising your energy levels. You might feel like the sun is giving you extra energy for your day, which is actually happening. And vitamin D from sunshine can help your body to absorb certain minerals, which are linked to building stronger bones. Therefore, I suggest you spend more time in the park with your friends, but make sure you apply lots of skin protection and fill up those water bottles, too.
Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 19: What does the passage say about hot sunshine?
Question 20: What does the passage say is a negative side effect of water loss?
Question 21: What is said to be a positive effect of sunshine?

19.
A) It creates a wonderful setting for dating.
B) It may cause strange physical reactions.
C) It turns parks into picnic sites.
D) It may result in a crowded beach.

20.
A) Breathing difficulty.
B) Bad breath.
C) Excessive sweating.
D) High blood pressure.

21.
A) It protects people against bacteria.
B) It enables people to build up endurance.
C) It accelerates people’s blood circulation.
D) It provides people with extra energy.

Passage 3
Left-handed people can find it inconvenient to do certain things, writing in a notebook for example, but there are a number of advantages of being left-handed. Research found that they were overrepresented among fighters in combat sports. Left-handed fighters also had higher chances to win. This confirms the fighter theory. Left-handers may also be better at remembering events. The explanation is that the two brain spheres of left-handers are more strongly connected. Being left-handed might be a factor in mathematical ability. An Italian study found that for simple arithmetic there was little difference between right and left-handed performance, but for more difficult problem-solving, left-handers won out. No one understands the reason for this. Left-handed people may think differently. In one study, researchers showed the participants columns of abstract illustrations and asked them which ones they would prefer. Left-handed people were more likely to prefer the images on the left. Right-handed people preferred the ones on the right. Both groups disliked stuff on their opposite side. Left-handers are also overrepresented in professional, interactive sports. Researchers have looked at the influence of being left-handed on performance and interactive sports. Those that require the fastest reaction give left-handers the biggest advantage. So if you have a left-handed child, you should encourage them to play table tennis, baseball and tennis. Being left-handed maximizes their chances of success in these sports.
Questions 22 to 25 are based on the passage you have just heard.
Question 22: What does the passage say about left-handed people?
Question 23: What is said to be special about left-handed people?
Question 24: Why are left-handed people better at solving more difficult problems?
Question 25: What should parents do about a left-handed child?

22.
A) They are more likely to win in combat sports.
B) They are in the minority among the population.
C) They have a higher chance of joining sports teams.
D) They have more disadvantages in getting ahead.

23.
A) Their brain is more powerful than that of right-handed people.
B) The left side of their brain is more powerful than its right side.
C) They tend to be a lot more aggressive than right-handed people.
D) Their brain has a stronger connection between its two sides.

24.
A) They have a larger brain.
B) It still remains unknown.
C) It is related to their genes.
D) They are better at reasoning.

25.
A) Teach them how to perform tasks with their right hand.
B) Help them fully develop their mathematical abilities.
C) Encourage them to play fast-paced interactive sports.
D) Advise them to choose jobs that require quick reactions.

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