As a winner of the NSLI-Y Scholarship in high school, and then the Critical Language Scholarship in college, I lived in China for two summers with host families, studying Chinese for nine hours a day. Tack on to that the approximately 2,000 classroom hours I spent learning Chinese as an undergraduate, and it seems fair to say that a small fortune of resources has been invested in my Chinese ability.
Yet even with so much practice, I am not still achieving fluency, and it's unclear whether I’ll use my language skills regularly in my career. This leads me to reflect: What is it that drives me to drill tones and memorize characters?
Many people are quick to point out the value of language skills in an increasingly competitive workforce. However, language is about much more than just the ability to communicate. Foreign language study is tied to increased levels of empathy (同理心)，enhanced cognitive development, and more creative insight on the human condition. Increasingly, research shows that these benefits also apply to those with exposure to multiple languages, and not just those who achieve fluency.
A beneficial future for the US and China will be built upon understanding, respect and recognition. Language exchange can provide cultural insight and strengthen the common ground we stand on.
It is not the economic potential of my language skills that leads me to persist. Studying Chinese is the most modest way I can think of to approach China, a nation with over 5 ,000 years of complex history. From this point, I have experienced the beauty, hospitality of China. And my experience of studying Chinese has helped me form a sense of curiosity and a commitment to understanding and respect-and that's a start.
1.What do we know about the author?
A.He has worked hard at learning Chinese.
B.He has won many scholarships in China.
C.He began to learn Chinese in high school.
D.He has enjoyed his life living in China.
2.What does the author think of the language learning?
A.It just needs to drill tones and remember words.
B.It needs the experience of living with a host family.
C.It can promote learners' mental development.
D.It is only used for effective communication.
3.What can we infer from Paragraph 4?
A.The US and China will certainly have a bright future.
B.The US and China always respect and recognize each other.
C.Language exchange can help the US and China understand better.
D.The US and China start to share the same cultural insight.
4.Why does the author stick to learning Chinese?
A.To get some economic profits. B.To show off his language talent.
C.To achieve the language fluency. D.To have a close look at China.
Four Excellent American Universities Princeton University
Princeton University is a private institution founded in 1746. Located in Princeton, New Jersey, it offers various events, activities and organizations. Famous alumni include the 28th US President Woodrow Wilson and former first lady Michelle Obama.
Harvard University
Harvard University is a private institution founded in 1636. Located outside Boston in Cambridge, Massachusetts, it is made up of more than 10 schools and institutes. Eight US presidents graduated from Harvard, including Franklin Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT is a private institution founded in 1861. Located outside Boston in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT focuses on scientific and technological research. Famous alumni include Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin and former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.
Yale University
Yale University is a private institution founded in 1701. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, it is known for its excellent drama and music programs. Famous alumni include five US presidents and actress Meryl Streep.
1.Which university has the longest history?
A.Princeton University. B.Harvard University.
C.Massachusetts Institute of Technology. D.Yale University.
2.What do we know about Yale University?
A.It provides various events, activities and organizations.
B.It concentrates on scientific and technological research.
C.It is the university that John F. Kennedy graduated from.
D.It is known for its excellent drama and music programs.
3.What do the four universities have in common?
A.They are all private institutions. B.They are all named after cities.
C.They are all located in Cambridge. D.They all have more than 10 schools.
听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。
1.What is the speaker?
A.An environmental official. B.A program producer. C.A scientist.
2.Where did the speaker do the task?
A.In a boat. B.At a university. C.At a TV station.
3.Why are the sharks returning?
A.There is more food to eat . B.The water quality is better. C.Hunting is forbidden.
听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
1.What is the woman doing?
A.Doing a survey. B.Hosting a program. C.Forecasting the weather.
2.Which place experienced many thunderstorms last month?
A.England. B.Wales. C.America.
3.What should the normal temperature be in India at this time of year?
A.42 degrees. B.45 degrees. C.48 degrees.
4.What is the weather like in Switzerland?
A.It is extremely hot. B.It has strong winds. C.It rains heavily.
听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
1.How did Helen contact the company?
A.By email. B.By phone. C.By letter.
2.What is the duty of the job in the ad?
A.To look after children.
B.To work for a newspaper.
C.To serve in a phone company.
3.On what conditions would Helen accept the job?
A.The place is fun. B.The pay is good. C.The work is easy.
听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
1.When did Jason watch a film?
A.Last Wednesday. B.Last Saturday. C.Last Sunday.
2.With whom did Jason climb the Great Wall?
A.His friends. B.His colleagues. C.His classmates.
3.What does the woman want to do?
A.Go back to the US. B.Upload pictures to her blog. C.Read about Jason’s experience.
