In a recent class I was asked “What is a short story?” My first answer was that it was something that could be read in one sitting and brought an illumination（启示）to the reader, sudden and golden like sunlight cracking(破裂, 砸开) through a heavy cloud. I went on to say that in my opinion a “real” short story was closer to poetry than to a novel.

Here are some definitions of the short story. My favorite is Benet's: “something that can be read in an hour and remembered for a lifetime”. One writer said, “The theme of a novel won't fit into the framework of a short story; It's like trying to squeeze a large painting done on a wall into the frame of a miniature （微型画）。 And as in a miniature painting, the details need to be sharp. ”

The short story is an example of one aspect of human nature. Often a character undergoes some event, something that offers him or her change. This is why it’s said that short stories usually “say something ”， often a small something, but sometimes delivered with such accuracy that the effect is strongly felt, even a life-moment for some readers, something similar to a religious experience or to witnessing a never-to-be-repeated scene in nature.

Ok, let’s form a definition here: A short story is an account, rarely over 10, 000 words or below 500 words-more commonly 1, 500 to 5, 000 words-a single-sitting read, but with enough time and weight to move the reader. It is narrow and focused to produce an effect through the story, most commonly through events affecting some change in an individual.

Writer Isabelle Allende once wrote: “Novels are, for me, adding up details, just work, work, work, then you're done. Short stories are more difficult-they have to be perfect, complete in themselves. ”

1.The writer of the passage is probably a ______.

A. poet            B. painter           C. teacher            D. student

2.What should the ideal short story be in length?

A. at most 10, 000 words        B. below 500 words    C. over 5, 000words         D. around 2, 000 words

3.The underlined word “undergoes ” in the third paragraph probably means “________ ”。

A. experiences    B. discovers       C. discusses          D. appreciates

4.What’s the difference between novels and short stories?

A. Novels are too long for us to read.

B. Short stories are too short for us to read.

C. Short stories have more details than novels.

D. Short stories are more perfect and difficult than novels.

5.What would be the best title for the passage?

A. How Do You Write a Short Story?        B. What Exactly Is a Short Story?

C. Is a Short Story Similar to Poetry?      D. Are Short Stories Perfect and Complete?

“There is an out – of – date idea that children grow up and leave home when they’re 18,and the truth is far from that,” says Mr．Larry Bumpass of the University of Wisconsin．Today unexpected numbers of young adults are living with their parents．“There is a great change in the middle class,” declares Allan Schnaiberg of Northwestern University, whose son, 19, moved back in after an absence of eight months．
Scientists show a number of reasons for this return to the nest．The marriage age is rising, a condition that makes home and its pleasantness particularly attractive to young people．A high divorce （离婚） rate and a low remarriage rate make some differences．For some, the expense of an away - from - home college education has become so great that many students now attend local schools．Even after graduation, young people find their wings tied by terrible housing costs．
Living at home, says Knighton, a school teacher, continues to give security （安全保卫） and moral（道义的） support．Her mother agreed．“Its strange for the kids to pay all that money for rent．It makes sense for kids to stay at home．” But sharing the family home requires changes for all．There are the hassles over bathrooms, telephones and privacy．Some families, however, manage the careful balancing act．But for others, it proves too difficult．Michelle Del Turco, 24, has been home three times and left three times．“What I considered a social drink, my dad considered an alcohol （酒精） problem,” she explains．“He never liked anyone I dated, so I either had to hide away or meet them at friends' houses．”
Just how long should adult children live with their parents before moving on? Most scientists feel lengthy homecomings are a mistake．Children, can end up with a sense of defeat and failure．And aging parents, who should be enjoying some freedom, find themselves stuck with too many things．Many agree that brief visits, however, can work well．
【小题1】According to the author, there was once a trend in the U．S．________．

During the school year many parents take on the role of driver as they drive their children from one lesson to another. Many of us want our children to have a little taste of everything, from organized sports to music, dance and more. But we can overdo it, leaving our children feeling a little burnt out, and according to parent educator Diane Loisie, it's their school work that suffers the most. "After school, if they're busy in a number of sporting events, besides they need to do their homework, then the time they'll feel sleepy is in the classroom. Your child needs free time. So if you're filling up that after school time, then it's during the day that they're going to be taking a break. "
Professor Claire McDermott agrees that there's a lot to be gained from sometimes putting those scheduled lessons and activities away. "Relaxing time is important for children. It's time just to do the things they want to do. A child can go up to their room, or they can play around. It doesn't look like productive time; parents certainly wouldn't be saying ‘Wow, are they ever learning things now?’  But this relaxing time gives both the body and the brain just a wonderful chance to relax after a day. It helps a child prepare for sleep, and it also helps to understand the learning that's gone on that day. "
It's hard to prevent signing our kids up for some activities and lessons. After all, many of us want our children to have a head start in life and the chance to join in great activities in the arts or sports is a part of that. However, Loisie feels that in the long run most children feel better with just a few key activities because it gives them an opportunity to master them. "When we get our children in too many activities because we want our children to experience everything, then what we're doing is setting them up not to be good at one thing or gaining a skill." So choose your children's activities wisely. It may be one of the best things you've ever done for your kids.
1. What is the biggest disadvantage for children to attend too many lessons after school?
A. They can get bored easily about everything.
B. They might have no time to do the homework.
C. They might not pay much attention to learning.
D. They can not easily focus on learning during the day.
2. What should we think of children's playing around aimlessly?
A. It is productive.                           
B. It is helpful.
C. It is a bad habit.                           
D. It is a waste of time.
3. Why should parents limit the activities our children attend?
A. Because children have no time.
B. Because children cannot learn many things.
C. Because children do not have enough sleep.
D. Because children cannot focus on too many activities.
4. What is the main idea of this passage?
A. Don't be children's drivers after school.
B. Choose activities for your children wisely.
C. Make your children learn as much as possible.
D. Let children learn something from various subjects.

It’s school time again! You’re probably feeling excited and maybe a little sad that summer is over. Some kids feel nervous or a little scared（害怕） on the first day of school because of all the new things: new teachers, new friends, and even a new school. Luckily, these “new” worries only stick around for a little while. Let’s find out more about going to a new school.

Most teachers kick off the new school year by introducing themselves and talking about all the stuff you’ll be doing that year. Some teachers give students a chance to tell something about themselves to the rest of the class, too. When teachers do the talking on the first day, they often go over classroom rules and school rules so you’ll know what’s allowed and what’s not. Please pay close attention

You might already know a lot of people in your classes on the first day, but it’s a great day to make a new friend, so try to say hello to kids you know and new ones that you don’t. Make the first move and you’ll be glad you did, and so will your new friend!

Seeing friends you haven’t seen for some time can make the first day a good one. You can make the day feel special by wearing clothes that you really like. Maybe you got a great T-shirt on one of your vacations, or a pair of sneakers（运动鞋）. It also can make you feel good to be prepared and have all the things you need, such as pencils, folders, and whatever else you’ll be needing. But make sure that you pack them the night before in case you don’t have time in the morning.

1.The underlined phrase “kick off” in the second paragraph probably means “_____”.

A．start             B．study             C．find              D．teach

2.The last paragraphs mainly tell us about ________.

A．what to know about a new school

B．how to prepare for a new school

C．what to do on your first day of school

D．how to spend your first day of school

3.According to the passage you usually do everything on the first day of school except _______.

A．introduce yourself                      B．learn about the school rules

C．make new friends                       D．go over your new lessons

4.If you happen to see an old friend on the first day of school, from the passage we know that you will feel ________

A．nervous          B．lucky             C．happy            D．excited

信息匹配（共5小题，每小题2分，满分10分）

阅读下列应用文及相关信息，并按要求匹配信息。请在答题卡上将对应题号的相应选项字母涂黑,选择项有一项是多余的。

首先阅读下列国外媒体上的插图及介绍性文字：

A. Cornwall

You can find that 'weekend feeling' every day of the year, in the country's favourite holiday destination. Some find it in a rock pool on a golden beach, others find it along a dramatic coastal path over-looking crashing waves, while for some it can only be discovered on wild moors and quiet woods. Art lovers are sure to find all the inspiration they could wish for in a lively arts scene, while gastronauts can savour the secret ingredients that make Cornwall a foodie's heaven.                                                    

Start planning, start discovering; get your free 2011 official Cornwall guide and visit the website.

B. Cornwall, paradise found

The gardens of Cornwall are the envy of the world. With its temperate climate Cornwall is the perfect home for a flourishing variety of plants, trees and shrubs. For seasoned horticulturists, keen amateurs or energetic families looking for a fun day out, there is always a surprise around the next corner - maybe a hidden vista or a startling splash of colour.

   With over 70 gardens to choose from you can walk amongst wild woodlands or stand and admire the formal splendour of a country estate. Kitchen gardens, perfumed gardens, and even Japanese gardens - you will discover something fresh, whatever the season.

Click the 'request brochure' button for your FREE guide or visit the website for more information.

C. Peak District

Come to the Peak District and get right to the heart of a great holiday - right at the heart of the UK. Our world-class destination is a stone's throw from everywhere. From Hollywood film locations to superb landscapes and quality accommodation to luscious local food, we've got it all. Add awesome attractions, historic houses, glorious gardens, fantastic theme parks, fabulous festivals and vibrant nightlife - and you have the perfect recipe for a brilliant break. Order your free copy of our 2011 Visitor Guide now!

D. Discover the stunning Channel Island of Guernsey in 2011

It doesn't take long to get to the stunning Channel Island of Guernsey, but once you're here, you'll feel a long way from home - Discover its unforgettable blend of stunning scenery, unique character and rich heritage for yourself in 2011.

Welcome to the islands of Guernsey. Lying close to the north coast of France and bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the islands are the perfect escape.

   Indulge in an unforgettable meal, explore the region's rich heritage or simply revel in the beauty of your surroundings, the islands of choice have it all. On this site, you'll find all the information you need to create a holiday filled with special memories - So take some time to look around and start planning your perfect break.

E. Visit the English Riviera - South Devon’s Beautiful Bay

   Torquay, Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham boast stunning beaches and award-winning visitor attractions.

But it's not just palm trees and a famously mild climate, there is treasured literary and natural heritage just waiting to be discovered. The 22 miles of coastline has been endorsed by UNESCO as a Global Geopark. Explore Agatha Christie's place of birth and the inspiration behind fictional tales and her real life story.

Visit the website to request your free Accommodation Guide and prepare to explore South Devon's beautiful bay.

F. Pure Jersey

Whether you're looking for a short break or longer holiday, Jersey has it all! Discover breathtaking beaches, fabulous restaurants, cosmopolitan shopping, leafy country lanes, award-winning attractions and fascinating WWII history. Stay in family-friendly hotels or self-catering lodges, chic hotels or great-value guest houses.

    With over 30 departure points from the UK, you can fly in less than an hour or sail by fast ferry. What's more, with its lovely mild climate, Jersey is the warmest place in the British Isles.

以下是几位计划出行者的情况介绍。请将介绍与相关插图及说明性文字匹配起来。

Doris , an amateur photographer , is now learning English in the UK. She is planning for a short visit to a place where she can not only has inspiration but also enjoys good food. More importantly, she wish to make it flexible according to her schedule. Any season would be fine as long as there are colourful flowers and warm sun shine.

.Rainy, a housewife, is taking a short break to relax herself from boring daily routine, but wishes to spend some days outdoors with her three young girls. She hates the cold winter and is ready to travel by any means of transportation so long as it won’t take a long time. She prefers street shopping to on line shopping.

Shirley, a professional column writer, is expecting to experience the UK in a special and unforgettable way. She writes about review on food, introduction to customs and lifestyle of the British.

Kathy, an artist, has great passion for nature. She is enthusiastic about exploring the unknown , learning from tradition, enjoying the amazing scenery and bathing the sun on the beach. She usually reads a lot about the persons she paints before she starts working on it.

King, a scholar, a nature lover, has written quite a few books on wars. On the other hand, he is particular about food. He is planning to spend one or two days simply enjoying the beauty of nature and quietness of the woods.