2015年成人高等考试《专升本英语》真题

Only in my thirties ____ a purpose in life.（　　）

____ his telephone number, she didn't know how to get in touch with him.（　　）

These are the pictures of the hotel ____ we held our annual meetings.（　　）

I wonder if there is ____ university in your hometown.（　　）

It is ____ that text messaging while driving is dangerous.（　　）

My secretary usually opens my post ____ it's marked “private”.（　　）

My aunt's business has been doing poorly, but she's hoping that her ____ will change.（　　）

Who should be responsible ____ the accident?（　　）

The old man, together with his neighbors, ____ the performance when it began to rain.（　　）

My teacher recommended that I ____ as careful as possible when I took an exam.（　　）

Several novels by Mo Yan ____ into English so far.（　　）

The pianist didn't ____ until the last minute before the concert.（　　）

—I'm sorry about the misunderstanding.

—You ____ apologize; it wasn't your fault.（　　）

Let's go to the airport a little earlier ____ we can choose better seats.（　　）

Jason made sharp comments on Mary's idea, but he didn't mean ____ her.（　　）

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

____.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

Where do cars get their energy from? For most cars, the answer is petrol.　21　some cars use electricity. These cars have　22　motors that get their power from large batteries. In　23　,there are even cars that have　24　an electric motor and a petrol motor. These types of cars are　25　hybrid（混合）cars.

　　Most people tend to think of electric cars as a new　26　,but they have been around for a long time. In the　27　19th and early 20th centuries electric cars were common because the technology for petrol engines was not very advanced．But　28　the petrol engine became easier to make and more powerful, this type of engines became the most　29　. Interest in electric cars was high in the 1970s and 1980s because　30　became very expensive. Recently, electric cars have again become well-liked because people want cars that pollute　31　.

　　Electric cars are better than petrol cars　32　several ways. The biggest benefit is reduced pollution. In areas　33　there is a high percentage of electric cars, pollution is not that serious. The second benefit of electric cars is a　34　in the dependence on foreign oil. Several countries don't want to　35　on oil from other countries. Since electric cars can run on electricity from coal or nuclear power stations, there is less need to import oil.

What does the underlined word “that” in Paragraph 1 refer to?（　　）

What did President Jimmy Carter sign into law in 1978?（　　）

Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word “inherent” in Paragraph 2?（　　）

What is the reason for setting an official holiday for stepparents?（　　）

Most students choose “Homestay” accommodation when they study abroad; others select Home-stay even if they are not on a study visit. Statistics show that it's a form of accommodation gaining in popularity all the time.

　　But what is Homestay? And what makes it so popular?

　　Homestay means living with a family, or “host family” as we say. There are three ways of doing it:

　　·choose to learn English in a language school near to your Homestay location;

　　·have your English classes in the house with a member of the family who is a qualified teacher;

　　·select not to have classes at all when you visit—a popular choice if you want to do the tourist thing for example.

　　Even in their busy summer period the organizations that arrange the Homestays will always try to place you with the most suitable host family to match your requirements. Placement（安置）organizations think about location, interests, language level, eating requirements, allergies（过敏）and other requests you may have.

　　Though prices vary according to your needs, good quality Homestay accommodation can be relatively economical—and although you may be charged an extra amount of money if you want your Homestay in or near the city centre. Even if you stay further out, you can expect your journey into the centre not to exceed 30 minutes.

　　Not only does Homestay accommodation represent value for money, it also gives you an excellent opportunity to practise English with your host family. This is a very important extra for students who like to speak as much English as possible. But if you plan to learn English, why not have your English classes in your host family? There's no better way to learn English than this—the perfect combination of learning and accommodation combined with the cultural experience!

Homestay is an ideal choice for students who ____.（　　）

Most students choose “Homestay” accommodation when they study abroad; others select Home-stay even if they are not on a study visit. Statistics show that it's a form of accommodation gaining in popularity all the time.

　　But what is Homestay? And what makes it so popular?

　　Homestay means living with a family, or “host family” as we say. There are three ways of doing it:

　　·choose to learn English in a language school near to your Homestay location;

　　·have your English classes in the house with a member of the family who is a qualified teacher;

　　·select not to have classes at all when you visit—a popular choice if you want to do the tourist thing for example.

　　Even in their busy summer period the organizations that arrange the Homestays will always try to place you with the most suitable host family to match your requirements. Placement（安置）organizations think about location, interests, language level, eating requirements, allergies（过敏）and other requests you may have.

　　Though prices vary according to your needs, good quality Homestay accommodation can be relatively economical—and although you may be charged an extra amount of money if you want your Homestay in or near the city centre. Even if you stay further out, you can expect your journey into the centre not to exceed 30 minutes.

　　Not only does Homestay accommodation represent value for money, it also gives you an excellent opportunity to practise English with your host family. This is a very important extra for students who like to speak as much English as possible. But if you plan to learn English, why not have your English classes in your host family? There's no better way to learn English than this—the perfect combination of learning and accommodation combined with the cultural experience!

Who will consider students' requirements before their Homestay starts?（　　）

Most students choose “Homestay” accommodation when they study abroad; others select Home-stay even if they are not on a study visit. Statistics show that it's a form of accommodation gaining in popularity all the time.

　　But what is Homestay? And what makes it so popular?

　　Homestay means living with a family, or “host family” as we say. There are three ways of doing it:

　　·choose to learn English in a language school near to your Homestay location;

　　·have your English classes in the house with a member of the family who is a qualified teacher;

　　·select not to have classes at all when you visit—a popular choice if you want to do the tourist thing for example.

　　Even in their busy summer period the organizations that arrange the Homestays will always try to place you with the most suitable host family to match your requirements. Placement（安置）organizations think about location, interests, language level, eating requirements, allergies（过敏）and other requests you may have.

　　Though prices vary according to your needs, good quality Homestay accommodation can be relatively economical—and although you may be charged an extra amount of money if you want your Homestay in or near the city centre. Even if you stay further out, you can expect your journey into the centre not to exceed 30 minutes.

　　Not only does Homestay accommodation represent value for money, it also gives you an excellent opportunity to practise English with your host family. This is a very important extra for students who like to speak as much English as possible. But if you plan to learn English, why not have your English classes in your host family? There's no better way to learn English than this—the perfect combination of learning and accommodation combined with the cultural experience!

Which of the following is a key factor affecting the price of Homestay?（　　）

Most students choose “Homestay” accommodation when they study abroad; others select Home-stay even if they are not on a study visit. Statistics show that it's a form of accommodation gaining in popularity all the time.

　　But what is Homestay? And what makes it so popular?

　　Homestay means living with a family, or “host family” as we say. There are three ways of doing it:

　　·choose to learn English in a language school near to your Homestay location;

　　·have your English classes in the house with a member of the family who is a qualified teacher;

　　·select not to have classes at all when you visit—a popular choice if you want to do the tourist thing for example.

　　Even in their busy summer period the organizations that arrange the Homestays will always try to place you with the most suitable host family to match your requirements. Placement（安置）organizations think about location, interests, language level, eating requirements, allergies（过敏）and other requests you may have.

　　Though prices vary according to your needs, good quality Homestay accommodation can be relatively economical—and although you may be charged an extra amount of money if you want your Homestay in or near the city centre. Even if you stay further out, you can expect your journey into the centre not to exceed 30 minutes.

　　Not only does Homestay accommodation represent value for money, it also gives you an excellent opportunity to practise English with your host family. This is a very important extra for students who like to speak as much English as possible. But if you plan to learn English, why not have your English classes in your host family? There's no better way to learn English than this—the perfect combination of learning and accommodation combined with the cultural experience!

What can be inferred from the passage?（　　）

Using less energy around the home is easier than you might think, saving your money while creating a healthier, more comfortable living space for you and your family. Changing a few old habits can make an impact on your energy bill, your comfort and the environment. Here are some handy tips to make your house more energy-efficient.

Lower the heat

　　If your home has adjustable central heating, lowering the room temperature even slightly can make a difference. You may not feel it, but your wallet will. It is even more advisable to control temperatures at different times of the day.

Hang clothes out to dry

　　If the weather allows it, head outside and dry your laundry on a clothesline. The sunlight will help eliminate bacteria and dust. While clothes dryers get the job done faster, they also use up energy. By hanging your clothes out you'll be cutting greenhouse gases by about three kilograms per load.

Take advantage of natural light

　　Installing large windows on the northern side of your house can help you make use of sunlight's natural warmth. To stay cool indoors on hot summer days, install blinds（百叶窗）to block the heavy sun. Put your desk near the window, then you don't need a lamp in the daytime.

Wrap（裹）your pipes

　　Be sure your hot-water pipes are properly wrapped. In an average home, heating water accounts for more than one-quarter of the energy bill. Why let warmth go to waste before it reaches you?

Choose the right size for appliances（家用电器）

　　When the time comes to replace appliances, select those that are both energy-efficient and of the appropriate size for your needs. Don't buy bigger ones just because you can.

What benefit may using less energy at home bring about?（　　）

Using less energy around the home is easier than you might think, saving your money while creating a healthier, more comfortable living space for you and your family. Changing a few old habits can make an impact on your energy bill, your comfort and the environment. Here are some handy tips to make your house more energy-efficient.

Lower the heat

　　If your home has adjustable central heating, lowering the room temperature even slightly can make a difference. You may not feel it, but your wallet will. It is even more advisable to control temperatures at different times of the day.

Hang clothes out to dry

　　If the weather allows it, head outside and dry your laundry on a clothesline. The sunlight will help eliminate bacteria and dust. While clothes dryers get the job done faster, they also use up energy. By hanging your clothes out you'll be cutting greenhouse gases by about three kilograms per load.

Take advantage of natural light

　　Installing large windows on the northern side of your house can help you make use of sunlight's natural warmth. To stay cool indoors on hot summer days, install blinds（百叶窗）to block the heavy sun. Put your desk near the window, then you don't need a lamp in the daytime.

Wrap（裹）your pipes

　　Be sure your hot-water pipes are properly wrapped. In an average home, heating water accounts for more than one-quarter of the energy bill. Why let warmth go to waste before it reaches you?

Choose the right size for appliances（家用电器）

　　When the time comes to replace appliances, select those that are both energy-efficient and of the appropriate size for your needs. Don't buy bigger ones just because you can.

Which of the following is one of the advantages of hanging clothes out to dry?（　　）

Using less energy around the home is easier than you might think, saving your money while creating a healthier, more comfortable living space for you and your family. Changing a few old habits can make an impact on your energy bill, your comfort and the environment. Here are some handy tips to make your house more energy-efficient.

Lower the heat

　　If your home has adjustable central heating, lowering the room temperature even slightly can make a difference. You may not feel it, but your wallet will. It is even more advisable to control temperatures at different times of the day.

Hang clothes out to dry

　　If the weather allows it, head outside and dry your laundry on a clothesline. The sunlight will help eliminate bacteria and dust. While clothes dryers get the job done faster, they also use up energy. By hanging your clothes out you'll be cutting greenhouse gases by about three kilograms per load.

Take advantage of natural light

　　Installing large windows on the northern side of your house can help you make use of sunlight's natural warmth. To stay cool indoors on hot summer days, install blinds（百叶窗）to block the heavy sun. Put your desk near the window, then you don't need a lamp in the daytime.

Wrap（裹）your pipes

　　Be sure your hot-water pipes are properly wrapped. In an average home, heating water accounts for more than one-quarter of the energy bill. Why let warmth go to waste before it reaches you?

Choose the right size for appliances（家用电器）

　　When the time comes to replace appliances, select those that are both energy-efficient and of the appropriate size for your needs. Don't buy bigger ones just because you can.

What can be installed on the northern side of your house to make better use of natural light?（　　）

Using less energy around the home is easier than you might think, saving your money while creating a healthier, more comfortable living space for you and your family. Changing a few old habits can make an impact on your energy bill, your comfort and the environment. Here are some handy tips to make your house more energy-efficient.

Lower the heat

　　If your home has adjustable central heating, lowering the room temperature even slightly can make a difference. You may not feel it, but your wallet will. It is even more advisable to control temperatures at different times of the day.

Hang clothes out to dry

　　If the weather allows it, head outside and dry your laundry on a clothesline. The sunlight will help eliminate bacteria and dust. While clothes dryers get the job done faster, they also use up energy. By hanging your clothes out you'll be cutting greenhouse gases by about three kilograms per load.

Take advantage of natural light

　　Installing large windows on the northern side of your house can help you make use of sunlight's natural warmth. To stay cool indoors on hot summer days, install blinds（百叶窗）to block the heavy sun. Put your desk near the window, then you don't need a lamp in the daytime.

Wrap（裹）your pipes

　　Be sure your hot-water pipes are properly wrapped. In an average home, heating water accounts for more than one-quarter of the energy bill. Why let warmth go to waste before it reaches you?

Choose the right size for appliances（家用电器）

　　When the time comes to replace appliances, select those that are both energy-efficient and of the appropriate size for your needs. Don't buy bigger ones just because you can.

Besides energy-efficiency, what else should be considered when replacing appliances?（　　）

　I talk to strangers for a living and love the challenge of getting their stories published in newspapers. I've been married for years, but until six months ago, I could be a typical absent-minded husband. Often I was just nodding when I was supposed to. When my wife asked,

I would defensively say, “Of course I did!”

　　In January, I began to lose my voice. Doctors told me I needed surgery, or my throat would be permanently damaged. Total silence would be required for the first few weeks of my recovery.

　　Two hours after the surgery, my eyes filled with tears as my two-year-old son looked puzzled because I wouldn't answer his questions. I wanted to talk but couldn't. Luckily, I'd recorded myself reading some of his favorite books. That would come in handy the next couple of weeks.

　　When I got home, I noticed a “side effect”: as my wife talked to me to keep up my spirits, I wasn't just hearing her; I was listening to her. Over the next few weeks, I didn't want to miss a word she said. I began to hear sweetness in her voice. It had never left. I'd just stopped noticing. I found myself understanding her better on topics I'd previously dismissed as “things I just don't get as a guy”. I also realized my son wasn't just talking nonstop but that he often had thoughtful things to say. Even while walking my dog in the woods near our home, I began hearing pleasant patterns in birdsongs. Before my surgery, I'd have spent those walks on my phone.

　　After several weeks, I was fully recovered. Conversation in our house is better now, not because I'm talking more. I'm just listening better and becoming less and less surprised that I like what I hear.

According to the passage, the author is most likely a ____.（　　）

　I talk to strangers for a living and love the challenge of getting their stories published in newspapers. I've been married for years, but until six months ago, I could be a typical absent-minded husband. Often I was just nodding when I was supposed to. When my wife asked,

I would defensively say, “Of course I did!”

　　In January, I began to lose my voice. Doctors told me I needed surgery, or my throat would be permanently damaged. Total silence would be required for the first few weeks of my recovery.

　　Two hours after the surgery, my eyes filled with tears as my two-year-old son looked puzzled because I wouldn't answer his questions. I wanted to talk but couldn't. Luckily, I'd recorded myself reading some of his favorite books. That would come in handy the next couple of weeks.

　　When I got home, I noticed a “side effect”: as my wife talked to me to keep up my spirits, I wasn't just hearing her; I was listening to her. Over the next few weeks, I didn't want to miss a word she said. I began to hear sweetness in her voice. It had never left. I'd just stopped noticing. I found myself understanding her better on topics I'd previously dismissed as “things I just don't get as a guy”. I also realized my son wasn't just talking nonstop but that he often had thoughtful things to say. Even while walking my dog in the woods near our home, I began hearing pleasant patterns in birdsongs. Before my surgery, I'd have spent those walks on my phone.

　　After several weeks, I was fully recovered. Conversation in our house is better now, not because I'm talking more. I'm just listening better and becoming less and less surprised that I like what I hear.

What does the wife mean by asking “Did you even hear what I just said?” in Paragraph 1?（　　）

　I talk to strangers for a living and love the challenge of getting their stories published in newspapers. I've been married for years, but until six months ago, I could be a typical absent-minded husband. Often I was just nodding when I was supposed to. When my wife asked,

I would defensively say, “Of course I did!”

　　In January, I began to lose my voice. Doctors told me I needed surgery, or my throat would be permanently damaged. Total silence would be required for the first few weeks of my recovery.

　　Two hours after the surgery, my eyes filled with tears as my two-year-old son looked puzzled because I wouldn't answer his questions. I wanted to talk but couldn't. Luckily, I'd recorded myself reading some of his favorite books. That would come in handy the next couple of weeks.

　　When I got home, I noticed a “side effect”: as my wife talked to me to keep up my spirits, I wasn't just hearing her; I was listening to her. Over the next few weeks, I didn't want to miss a word she said. I began to hear sweetness in her voice. It had never left. I'd just stopped noticing. I found myself understanding her better on topics I'd previously dismissed as “things I just don't get as a guy”. I also realized my son wasn't just talking nonstop but that he often had thoughtful things to say. Even while walking my dog in the woods near our home, I began hearing pleasant patterns in birdsongs. Before my surgery, I'd have spent those walks on my phone.

　　After several weeks, I was fully recovered. Conversation in our house is better now, not because I'm talking more. I'm just listening better and becoming less and less surprised that I like what I hear.

What is true of the author after the surgery?（　　）

　I talk to strangers for a living and love the challenge of getting their stories published in newspapers. I've been married for years, but until six months ago, I could be a typical absent-minded husband. Often I was just nodding when I was supposed to. When my wife asked,

I would defensively say, “Of course I did!”

　　In January, I began to lose my voice. Doctors told me I needed surgery, or my throat would be permanently damaged. Total silence would be required for the first few weeks of my recovery.

　　Two hours after the surgery, my eyes filled with tears as my two-year-old son looked puzzled because I wouldn't answer his questions. I wanted to talk but couldn't. Luckily, I'd recorded myself reading some of his favorite books. That would come in handy the next couple of weeks.

　　When I got home, I noticed a “side effect”: as my wife talked to me to keep up my spirits, I wasn't just hearing her; I was listening to her. Over the next few weeks, I didn't want to miss a word she said. I began to hear sweetness in her voice. It had never left. I'd just stopped noticing. I found myself understanding her better on topics I'd previously dismissed as “things I just don't get as a guy”. I also realized my son wasn't just talking nonstop but that he often had thoughtful things to say. Even while walking my dog in the woods near our home, I began hearing pleasant patterns in birdsongs. Before my surgery, I'd have spent those walks on my phone.

　　After several weeks, I was fully recovered. Conversation in our house is better now, not because I'm talking more. I'm just listening better and becoming less and less surprised that I like what I hear.

What did the author realize after the surgery?（　　）

Coconut（椰子）is an unusual food for many reasons. It is one of the largest

seeds produced by any plant. Its unusual contents also make it unique in the seed world—it consists of both “meat” and “water” inside. The coconut meat is the white substance with which we are all familiar, as it is used extensively for cooking and flavorings; the coconut water is a white and sweet liquid.

　　Portuguese（葡萄牙的）explorers gave the nut its name in the 15th century, referring to it as coco, meaning “ghost” in their language. The outside appearance of coconuts reminded them of a ghost's face, and the tree has had that name ever since.

　　The coconut has varied uses. It is used to make various cooking oils for fast-food restaurants around the world to make diet materials. The coconut fluid is a favorite drink in hot climates, providing a cool and refreshing beverage right off the tree. This water is also used by manufacturers of various sports drinks. Even the shell itself has many uses, including animal food and fertilizer.

　　Yet the coconut is also useful in many ways that have nothing to do with food. Coconut oil is used for cosmetics（化妆品）, medicines, and so on. Dried coconut shells are used in many countries as a tool for shining wood floors. The shells are also used for shirt buttons, and are commonly found on Hawaiian clothing. They are even used for musical instruments and bird houses.

　　And all these are only some of the uses found for the coconut fruit. The coconut tree, which produces the nut, also produces many useful things. It's no wonder that the coconut tree has been taken as “the tree of life”.

What does the underlined word “edible” in Paragraph 1 mean?（　　）

Coconut（椰子）is an unusual food for many reasons. It is one of the largest

seeds produced by any plant. Its unusual contents also make it unique in the seed world—it consists of both “meat” and “water” inside. The coconut meat is the white substance with which we are all familiar, as it is used extensively for cooking and flavorings; the coconut water is a white and sweet liquid.

　　Portuguese（葡萄牙的）explorers gave the nut its name in the 15th century, referring to it as coco, meaning “ghost” in their language. The outside appearance of coconuts reminded them of a ghost's face, and the tree has had that name ever since.

　　The coconut has varied uses. It is used to make various cooking oils for fast-food restaurants around the world to make diet materials. The coconut fluid is a favorite drink in hot climates, providing a cool and refreshing beverage right off the tree. This water is also used by manufacturers of various sports drinks. Even the shell itself has many uses, including animal food and fertilizer.

　　Yet the coconut is also useful in many ways that have nothing to do with food. Coconut oil is used for cosmetics（化妆品）, medicines, and so on. Dried coconut shells are used in many countries as a tool for shining wood floors. The shells are also used for shirt buttons, and are commonly found on Hawaiian clothing. They are even used for musical instruments and bird houses.

　　And all these are only some of the uses found for the coconut fruit. The coconut tree, which produces the nut, also produces many useful things. It's no wonder that the coconut tree has been taken as “the tree of life”.

The coconut got its name because of ____.（　　）

Coconut（椰子）is an unusual food for many reasons. It is one of the largest

seeds produced by any plant. Its unusual contents also make it unique in the seed world—it consists of both “meat” and “water” inside. The coconut meat is the white substance with which we are all familiar, as it is used extensively for cooking and flavorings; the coconut water is a white and sweet liquid.

　　Portuguese（葡萄牙的）explorers gave the nut its name in the 15th century, referring to it as coco, meaning “ghost” in their language. The outside appearance of coconuts reminded them of a ghost's face, and the tree has had that name ever since.

　　The coconut has varied uses. It is used to make various cooking oils for fast-food restaurants around the world to make diet materials. The coconut fluid is a favorite drink in hot climates, providing a cool and refreshing beverage right off the tree. This water is also used by manufacturers of various sports drinks. Even the shell itself has many uses, including animal food and fertilizer.

　　Yet the coconut is also useful in many ways that have nothing to do with food. Coconut oil is used for cosmetics（化妆品）, medicines, and so on. Dried coconut shells are used in many countries as a tool for shining wood floors. The shells are also used for shirt buttons, and are commonly found on Hawaiian clothing. They are even used for musical instruments and bird houses.

　　And all these are only some of the uses found for the coconut fruit. The coconut tree, which produces the nut, also produces many useful things. It's no wonder that the coconut tree has been taken as “the tree of life”.

What is the passage mainly about?（　　）

Coconut（椰子）is an unusual food for many reasons. It is one of the largest

seeds produced by any plant. Its unusual contents also make it unique in the seed world—it consists of both “meat” and “water” inside. The coconut meat is the white substance with which we are all familiar, as it is used extensively for cooking and flavorings; the coconut water is a white and sweet liquid.

　　Portuguese（葡萄牙的）explorers gave the nut its name in the 15th century, referring to it as coco, meaning “ghost” in their language. The outside appearance of coconuts reminded them of a ghost's face, and the tree has had that name ever since.

　　The coconut has varied uses. It is used to make various cooking oils for fast-food restaurants around the world to make diet materials. The coconut fluid is a favorite drink in hot climates, providing a cool and refreshing beverage right off the tree. This water is also used by manufacturers of various sports drinks. Even the shell itself has many uses, including animal food and fertilizer.

　　Yet the coconut is also useful in many ways that have nothing to do with food. Coconut oil is used for cosmetics（化妆品）, medicines, and so on. Dried coconut shells are used in many countries as a tool for shining wood floors. The shells are also used for shirt buttons, and are commonly found on Hawaiian clothing. They are even used for musical instruments and bird houses.

　　And all these are only some of the uses found for the coconut fruit. The coconut tree, which produces the nut, also produces many useful things. It's no wonder that the coconut tree has been taken as “the tree of life”.

What can be learned from the passage?（　　）