Should we allow modern buildings to be built next to older buildings in a historic area of a city? In order to answer this question, we must first examine whether people really want to preserve the historic feel of an area. Not all historical buildings are attractive. However, there may be other reasons — for example, economic reasons — why they should be preserved. So, let us assume that historical buildings are both attractive and important to the majority of people. What should we do then if a new building is needed?

In my view, new architectural styles can exist perfectly well alongside an older style. Indeed, there are many examples in my own hometown of Tours where modern designs have been placed very successfully next to old buildings. As long as the building in question is pleasing and does not dominate (影响) its surroundings too much, it often improves the attractiveness of the area.

It is true that there are examples of new buildings which have spoilt (破坏) the area they are in, but the same can be said of some old buildings too. Yet people still speak against new buildings in historic areas. I think this is simply because people are naturally conservative(保守的) and do not like change.

Although we have to respect people’s feelings as fellow users of the buildings, I believe that it is the duty of the architect and planner to move things forward. If we always reproduced what was there before, we would all still be living in caves. Thus, I would argue against copying previous architectural styles and choose something fresh and different, even though that might be the more risky choice.

1.What does the author say about historical buildings in the first paragraph?

A. Most of them are too expensive to preserve.

B. They are more pleasing than modern buildings.

C. They have nothing to do with the historic feel of an area.

D. Some of them are not attractive.

2.Which of the following is TRUE according to the author?

A. Some old buildings have spoilt the area they are in.

B. We should reproduce the same old buildings.

C. Buildings should not dominate their surroundings.

D. No one understands why people speak against new buildings.

3.By “move things forward” in the last paragraph, the author probably means “________”.

A. destroy old buildings

B. put things in a different place

C. choose new architectural style

D. respect people’s feelings for historical buildings

4.What is the main purpose of the passage?

A. To explain why people dislike change.

B. To argue that modern buildings can be built in historic areas.

C. To warn that we could end up living in caves.

D. To admit how new buildings have ruined their surroundings.

阅读下列短文,从每题所给的四个选项(A、B、C和D)中,选出最佳选项。

Adventure Works World Tours

How often have you said out loud, “I would love to see the Eiffel Tower someday…” or “My dream in life is to see the pyramids”? Now you can stop talking about it and do it! Our mission is to provide you with the most comprehensive and complete planning and travel services so that you can have the adventure of a lifetime that is exciting, comfortable and worry-free.

We have several packages to accommodate almost any need, or you can let us create a custom travel package. Following is a small sampling of some of our packages.

Egyptian nights

Travel with us to the land of the pyramids, where you’ll see ancient mysteries displayed before your eyes! Our specialists will share with you their extensive knowledge of Egyptian history and artifacts as you admire ancient wonders like the Sphinx and the pyramids at Giza.

Packages range from 7 days and nights to 21 days and nights, and all packages include hotel, tours, and meals. Priced from $1,000 per person.

Splendors of Italy

From the leaning tower at Pisa to the Vatican (梵蒂冈) in Rome, you’ll see the greatest sights in Italy. You’ll visit Florence, Rome, Pisa, and villages in the Italian countryside. You’ll even get a primer (入门书) in the Italian language from a world-celebrated linguist (语言学家). Plus, you’ll visit a cooking school for a lesson on how to make real Italian lasagna! Priced from $800 per person.

Russian experience

Explore the best of Russia, a place of cultural and historical beauty. You’ll tour Moscow and St. Petersburg and see for yourself places like Red Square, the Kremlin, Moscow University and more. Learn about the history and the people that make up this remarkable place. Priced from $1,500 per person (does not include airfare).

Let us create just the right custom package for you! Let us show you the world!

Adventure Works

One Main Street, Seattle, WA 75006

Phone (425)555 0125

Fax (425) 555 0145

http://www.adventure-works.com

1.Which point might be the most attractive to those choosing Adventure Works for traveling?

A. Traveling with a fair price.

B. Getting to know the history of those countries.

C. Learning cooking while traveling.

D. Enjoying a travel package designed just for them.

2.What can we learn about the sampling packages?

A. 21 days and nights in Egypt will cost one person 1000 dollars.

B. If one chooses the Italy package, he can only enjoy the beautiful sights of the major cities.

C. If one is interested in religion, he might choose the Italy package.

D. The Russia package is a good choice if one is looking for the beauty of nature.

3.You can contact Adventure Works by the following EXCEPT ____.

A. an e-mail B. a call

C. a fax D. in person

4.What is the main purpose of the text?

A. To inform people the detailed schedules of their travel packages.

B. To encourage people to sign up for their travel package.

C. To introduce some popular holiday destinations.

D. To provide practical instructions on how to make a travel plan.

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