2023年英语专业八级考试题目 - 听力部分 - 常规

Section I Listening Comprehension

Part A Directions: In this section, you will hear three 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.

Example: You will hear: W: Excuse me, is there a bank near here? M: Yes, there is one on the corner of this street and Main Street. W: Thank you. What is the woman looking for? A. A post office. B. A bank. C. A store. D. A restaurant. Answer: B

Conversation 1

What is the man’s occupation? A. A teacher. B. A student. C. A doctor. D. A businessman.
What is the woman’s problem? A. She can’t find her passport. B. She lost her luggage. C. She missed her flight. D. She forgot her wallet.
How will the woman get to her destination? A. By train. B. By bus. C. By taxi. D. By airplane.
What is the man’s advice? A. To take a taxi. B. To ask for help. C. To go to the airport. D. To wait for the next flight.

Conversation 2 5. What is the topic of the conversation? A. A job interview. B. A business meeting. C. A social event. D. A sports game. 6. What is the woman’s opinion about the job? A. She thinks it is easy. B. She thinks it is challenging. C. She thinks it is boring. D. She thinks it is interesting. 7. What is the man’s advice? A. To dress formally. B. To be confident. C. To do research. D. To bring a friend. 8. What is the woman’s response to the advice? A. She agrees. B. She disagrees. C. She is confused. D. She is uncertain.

Conversation 3 9. What is the woman’s problem? A. She is lost. B. She is hungry. C. She is thirsty. D. She is tired. 10. What is the man’s suggestion? A. To go to a museum. B. To go to a restaurant. C. To go to a park. D. To go to a hotel. 11. What is the woman’s response to the suggestion? A. She agrees. B. She disagrees. C. She is hesitant. D. She is indifferent. 12. What is the woman’s final decision? A. To go to a museum. B. To go to a restaurant. C. To go to a park. D. To go to a hotel.

Part B Directions: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea. When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill in the blanks numbered from 13 to 15 with the exact words you have just heard. For blanks numbered from 16 to 20 you are required to fill in the missing information. For these blanks, you can either use the exact words you have just heard or write down the main points in your own words. Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should check what you have written.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly developing field that promises to revolutionize the way we live and work. AI refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as (13)________ recognition, decision making, and language translation. AI has the potential to (14)________ efficiency and productivity in many industries, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.

One of the most exciting applications of AI is in the field of autonomous vehicles. Self-driving cars use AI to (15)________ and respond to their environment, allowing them to navigate roads safely and efficiently. The development of autonomous vehicles has the potential to (16)________ road safety and reduce traffic congestion. In addition, AI has the potential to (17)________ the way we work and live, by automating many tasks that are currently performed by humans, freeing up time for more creative and fulfilling activities.

However, there are also concerns about the impact of AI on society. One of the most pressing concerns is the (18)________ of jobs, as many tasks currently performed by humans will be automated. In addition, there are concerns about the (19)________ of AI systems, and the potential for these systems to be used for malicious purposes. As AI continues to develop, it is important for society to (20)________ these issues and work together to ensure that AI is used in a responsible and ethical manner.

Part C Directions: In this section, you will hear a passage three times. When the passage is read for the first time, you should listen carefully for its general idea. When the passage is read for the second time, you are required to fill in the blanks numbered from 21 to 25 with the exact words you have just heard. For blanks numbered from 26 to 30 you are required to fill in the missing information. For these blanks, you can either use the exact words you have just heard or write down the main points in your own words. Finally, when the passage is read for the third time, you should check what you have written.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in mindfulness meditation, a practice that involves focusing attention on the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness meditation has been shown to have a (21)________ effect on a range of mental and physical health problems, including anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.

One of the key benefits of mindfulness meditation is its ability to (22)________ stress. Stress is a common problem in modern society, and can lead to a range of health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and (23). Mindfulness meditation has been shown to reduce stress by decreasing activity in the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s (24) response. In addition, mindfulness meditation has been shown to increase activity in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s (25)________ response.

Despite its many benefits, some people find mindfulness meditation difficult to practice. It can be challenging to (26)________ focus on the present moment, especially for those who are used to multitasking and being constantly connected to technology. In addition, some people may find it difficult to (27)________ with uncomfortable thoughts or feelings that may arise during the practice of mindfulness meditation.

However, with practice, mindfulness meditation can be a powerful tool for improving mental and physical health. To get started, it is helpful to find a quiet, comfortable place to practice, and to set aside time each day for meditation. There are also many resources available, such as books and (28)________, that can help beginners learn the basics of mindfulness meditation.

In conclusion, mindfulness meditation is a valuable practice for improving mental and physical health. By focusing attention on the present moment without judgment, mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. While it may be challenging to practice, the benefits of mindfulness meditation are well worth the effort.

Section II Reading Comprehension

Part A Directions: For each of the following passages, there are several questions or unfinished statements with four choices marked A), B), C) and D). Choose the one that fits best according to the information given in the passage you have just read. Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 1 with a single line through the centre.

Passage 1 The world’s largest iceberg, the size of the Spanish island of Majorca, has broken off from the western side of the Ronne Ice Shelf in Antarctica. The iceberg, named A-76 by the United States National Ice Center, measures around 170 km long and 25 km wide, with an area of 4,320 square km. The ice shelf, which is the floating extension of the Antarctic ice sheet, is the second-largest in the world, with an area of around 450,000 square km.

Icebergs calve from ice shelves regularly, but the size of A-76 is unusual. The last major iceberg to break off from the Ronne Ice Shelf was A-23A in 1986, which was around half the size of A-76. The event was detected by the European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1 satellite, which uses radar to monitor changes in the height of the ice surface.

The break-off of A-76 is not expected to have an immediate impact on sea level rise, as the iceberg was already floating in the ocean. However, the event could have implications for shipping and scientific research in the region. Icebergs can remain in the ocean for several years, and their movement can be unpredictable, posing a hazard to ships.

What is the size of the iceberg A-76? A. Around 25 km long and 170 km wide. B. Around 170 km long and 25 km wide. C. Around 450,000 square km. D. Around half the size of A-23A.
What is the Ronne Ice Shelf? A. A floating extension of the Arctic ice sheet. B. The largest iceberg in the world. C. The second-largest ice shelf in the world. D. The source of sea level rise.
How was the event of A-76 breaking off detected? A. By a radar satellite. B. By a research vessel. C. By a scientific expedition. D. By a weather station.
What is the potential impact of the break-off of A-76? A. An immediate rise in sea level. B. A hazard to shipping and scientific research. C. A decrease in ocean temperatures. D. A reduction in the amount of sea ice.

Passage 2 The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of our lives, including the way we travel. With restrictions on international travel and concerns about the safety of air travel, many people are choosing to take road trips instead. Road trips offer a way to explore new places while maintaining social distancing and minimizing the risk of exposure to the virus.

One of the most popular road trip destinations in the United States is the state of California. Known for its sunny beaches, scenic highways, and world-famous attractions, California offers something for everyone. Some of the must-see destinations in California include the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the beaches of Santa Monica and Malibu, and the theme parks of Los Angeles.

To make the most of your California road trip, it is important to plan ahead. Make a list of the destinations you want to visit, and research the best routes to take. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and other essentials, as well as a first aid kit and a map. It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unexpected events, such as bad weather or car trouble.

What effect has the COVID-19 pandemic had on travel? A. It has increased the popularity of air travel. B. It has decreased the popularity of road trips. C. It has increased concerns about safety. D. It has had no effect on travel.
Why are road trips becoming more popular? A. They offer a way to explore new places while maintaining social distancing. B. They are less expensive than air travel. C. They are more convenient than air travel. D. They are safer than air travel.
What are some of the must-see destinations in California? A. The beaches of Florida. B. The theme parks of New York. C. The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. D. The mountains of Colorado.
What should you do to make the most of your California road trip? A. Plan ahead and research the best routes to take. B. Pack only the essentials. C. Have no backup plan. D. Avoid unexpected events.

Passage 3 The world’s oceans are facing a crisis. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change are threatening the health of marine ecosystems, and the consequences could be catastrophic. The oceans are home to millions of species of plants and animals, many of which are essential to the health of the planet. Without healthy oceans, the entire planet could be at risk.

One of the key challenges facing the oceans is overfishing. Many fish populations around the world have been depleted due to unsustainable fishing practices. This has serious implications for the health of marine ecosystems, as well as for the people and communities that depend on fish for food and livelihoods.

Another major threat to the oceans is pollution. Millions of tons of plastic, chemicals, and other pollutants are dumped into the oceans every year, causing harm to marine life and ecosystems. In addition, climate change is causing ocean temperatures to rise, leading to coral bleaching and the loss of other important marine habitats.

To address these challenges, it is essential that we take action to protect the oceans. This includes implementing sustainable fishing practices, reducing pollution, and taking steps to address climate change. We must also work to raise awareness about the importance of the oceans, and to promote conservation and protection efforts.

What is threatening the health of marine ecosystems? A. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change. B. Overfishing, lack of food, and habitat loss. C. Overfishing, lack of oxygen, and water pollution. D. Overfishing, ocean acidification, and illegal fishing.
Why is overfishing a problem? A. It leads to the loss of marine habitats. B. It causes the depletion of fish populations. C. It reduces the amount of oxygen in the oceans. D. It causes ocean temperatures to rise.
What are some of the pollutants that are dumped into the oceans? A. Food waste, paper, and glass. B. Plastic, chemicals, and other pollutants. C. Metal, oil, and gas. D. Rocks, sand, and gravel.
What can be done to protect the oceans? A. Implementing sustainable fishing practices, reducing pollution, and addressing climate change. B. Dumping more pollutants into the oceans to balance the ecosystem. C. Overfishing to increase the amount of fish populations. D. Ignoring the problem and hoping it will go away.

Part B Directions: Read the following text and answer the questions by choosing the most suitable headings from the list below. There are more headings than required, so you will not use them all. Mark the corresponding letter of the heading on Answer Sheet 1.

A. The importance of sleep B. How to improve sleep C. The effects of sleep deprivation D. The benefits of sleep

Sleep is an essential part of life, and we spend about one-third of our lives sleeping. Despite its importance, many people do not get enough sleep, and this can have serious consequences for our health and well-being.

One of the most important benefits of sleep is its effect on our physical health. During sleep, our bodies repair and restore themselves, and this process is essential for maintaining good health. Lack of sleep has been linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

In addition to its physical benefits, sleep is also important for our mental health. Sleep helps to regulate our emotions, and lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, irritability, and depression. Sleep also plays a crucial role in learning and memory consolidation, and getting enough sleep is essential for academic and professional success.

Despite the importance of sleep, many people struggle to get enough of it. There are several factors that can affect sleep, including stress, anxiety, and lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. To improve sleep, it is important to create a sleep-friendly environment, such as a quiet, dark room with a comfortable temperature. It is also important to establish a regular sleep routine, and to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and other stimulants before bedtime.

Sleep deprivation can have serious consequences for our health and well-being. Lack of sleep can lead to a range of physical and mental health problems, and can have a negative impact on our academic and professional success. By prioritizing sleep and taking steps to improve our sleep habits, we can enjoy the many benefits of a good night’s sleep.

A. The importance of sleep B. How to improve sleep C. The effects of sleep deprivation D. The benefits of sleep

Part C Directions: Read the following text carefully and then translate the underlined segments into Chinese. Your translation should be written neatly on Answer Sheet 2.

Few things are more frustrating than being stuck in traffic. Whether you’re on your way to work, running errands, or heading out for a night on the town, traffic can turn a quick trip into a long, stressful ordeal. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce your time spent in traffic and make your commute more enjoyable.

One of the most effective ways to avoid traffic is to plan your route ahead of time. Many GPS systems and smartphone apps can provide real-time traffic updates, allowing you to choose the best route based on current conditions. In addition, you can also choose to travel during off-peak hours, when traffic is lighter.

Another way to reduce your time spent in traffic is to carpool or use public transportation. By sharing a ride with others, you can reduce the number of cars on the road and save time and money on gas and parking. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, can also be a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Finally, it is important to stay calm and patient when you are stuck in traffic. Getting angry or frustrated will only make the situation worse, and can even be dangerous if you are driving. Instead, try to use the time to relax, listen to music, or catch up on your reading. By staying calm and patient, you can make your commute more enjoyable and reduce the stress of being stuck in traffic.

One of the most effective ways to avoid traffic is to plan your route ahead of time.
By sharing a ride with others, you can reduce the number of cars on the road and save time and money on gas and parking.
Getting angry or frustrated will only make the situation worse, and can even be dangerous if you are driving.
By staying calm and patient, you can make your commute more enjoyable and reduce the stress of being stuck in traffic.