It was when I was attending high school that I first read Asimov's stories. At the time, a few science fiction magazines began to introduce this author, and to translate a few pieces from his "Robot Series". Of Asimov's works, the one that left the deepest impression on me was Pebble in the Sky. This novel directly influenced my early science fiction writing. Asimov was one of the leading writers of western science fiction's Golden Age, so although his writing may not have a direct influence on writers of today, his underlying influence on many levels is undeniable -- the famous Three Laws of Robotics, and many classic writing techniques, for example. Asimov's novels are marked by a fully integrated logical system, and his stories are a pleasure to read. This is the reason his novels still attract readers today. Naturally, western science fiction has few people these days who follow Asimov's creative methods. But still the majority of Chinese science fiction readers would rather read the classic works of Asimov. Compared with the "Robot Series", Asimov's "Foundation Series" is a little less well-known in China. In fact, the "Foundation Series" creates an entire world, even grander than that of the "Robot Series"; this science fiction had a direct influence on later western science fiction, the most famous example being Star Wars. In the writer's opinion, Asimov's "Foundation Series" _ . A) was not as successful as his "Robot Series" B) is better known to readers than his "Robot Series" C) was more logically organized than his "Robot Series" D) was written better than his "Robot Series" in some ways
D
(Question)
The following are letters to the editor of a school newspaper. Dear editor, I'd like to express my opinion about grades. Students should be allowed to study without worrying about grades. Fortunately, most educators are becoming aware of the fact that students have different interests and abilities. I understand that grades are useful, but grades often limit creativity. Competing for better grades causes many students to turn down opportunities to pursue music, dramatics and sports. Grades force an arbitrary standard of success on everyone. I do not demand as some extremists do, that grades be removed immediately. However, I do believe that less emphasis should be placed on grades. I hope that someday grades will become optional at Village High School. Magdalena Smith Drama Club Dear editor, I'd like to say something about grades. Let's face the facts about grades. Grades perform three basic functions. First, grades motivate students to work at their highest level of competence . Second, they act as a reward for hardworking students and as a punishment to students who do not work hard. Finally, grades are used as an effective standard by which to measure students' achievement. Good grades help students to get jobs and to get into university. I've spoken with a number of students who have jobs, and most of them say that they were hired primarily on the basis of their grades. My grades helped me land a part-time job and will help me get into university next year. I think grades are extremely important at Village High School. Simon Harper Science Club We can learn Simon Harper _ . A) is concerned about students' creativity B) believes in the benefits of good grades C) doesn't work too hard at his studies D) supports students' interests and abilities
(Answer)
B
Ques: It's baseball season again,and Hank Snydder is back on the field.He has been back from the accident that kept him out of the game for the season last year,and that cost the Muggers last year's championship.Baseball fans in the city of Midvale are happy and George Brenner,the Muggers' owner,is happy too, because when Hank plays the team wins and the games sell out."Last year's attendance was all time low when Hank was out,"said Brenner."We're glad to have him back in uniform." Needless to say,the Muggers pay Hank well.But other teams have offered him a million dollars.Still,Hank has been faithful to the Muggers up to now.But there is a rumor that Hank might play for the Suffers of Sun City next year.A newspaper reporter asked Hank if there was any truth in it.He said."Nothing has been decided,but I have to admit that I could be leaving Midvale after this season."What about another rumor that Hank might be getting married? "That's true." Hank replied,"and I'm very happy about it." There is no need to ask how Midvale or George Brenner would feel about losing Hank.But is Hank completely happy about the changes that may be taking place in his life? "Only one thing troubles me,"he said."I've always loved the Muggers' blue uniforms.It will take me some time to get used to the Suffers' green and gold uniforms." Hank Snydder didn't play for the Muggers last year because _ . A) there were no baseball matches B) the club didn't pay him enough money C) other players had accidents D) something had happened to him
Ans: D
Dinner, for the English people, is the richest meal of a day and is, different from Chinese dinner, a very formal meal. Many people even wear special clothes for dinner. So if you are asked out to dinner, you must find out whether you are expected to wear a formal suit. You would feel upset if, when you got there, you were the only person in ordinary clothes. Dinner is generally served at about half past seven. All the members of the family sit down together and are on their best behavior. The guest of honor will sit on the right of the lady of the house. There are two schools of thought as to the seating of the hostess. One is that she sits at the foot of the table but this may mess up the man-woman-man setting order. The other way is for the guest of honor to sit at the foot and the hostess to sit on his right. The wife of the guest of honor will sit on the right of the host. This is subject to change according to the wishes of your employer. During the meal when conversation is carried on, you should try to get into conversation with the person on your right or left, but you should not try to talk to someone who is a long way from you. Don't forget to drop your hosts a thank-you note or make a brief phone call. Your wearing a special clothes for dinner shows that _ . A) you are a special person B) you are a rich person C) you are a person with good manners D) you are the most important guest
C