四、阅读理解
Elsie Kennedy, a 14-year-old student from Scone Grammar School in New South Wales, has donated her long, knee-length hair to help make wigs (假发) for children with cancer (癌症). Inspired (赋予灵感) by the fairytale character Rapunzel, Elsie spent her childhood growing her hair, dreaming of having long, beautiful hair like the princess. Over time, her dream changed, and she decided to use her hair to help others.
Elsie's first haircut took place at her school on November 20. To support her, students were encouraged to wear purple, the colour of cancer awareness, and donate money. Elsie called it a "Purple Rapunzel" theme, connecting her love for the fairytale with her wish to help kids in need. She had only trimmed (修剪) her hair once before, at age seven, so this was a big moment for her.
Elsie's goal was to raise $14,000 for the charity Kids with Cancer. By January 2025, she had already raised over $11,000. Her fundraising page remained open, and she hoped to reach her goal soon.
Elsie said she was excited to get a new look and she felt proud knowing her efforts would support kids and families facing cancer.
Elsie's mother, Mandy Kennedy, explained that the family had discussed donating her hair for a couple of years. They agreed that if Elsie ever cut her hair,
it should go to someone in need. "Donating it to make wigs for children was the perfect choice," Ms Kennedy said. "Elsie understands how important it is for kids to feel confident, especially when they're going through difficult times."
Elsie's act of kindness shows how one person can make a big difference. Her efforts to help others are an inspiration to everyone around her.
(
C
) 1. Why did Elsie Kennedy want to have her long hair cut?
A. To follow the new school rules. B. To sell her long hair for money.
C. To donate her hair to help children with cancer.
D. To make her look good and give her confidence.
(
D
) 2. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
A. Elsie held a "Purple Rapunzel" event at home.
B. Elsie trimmed her hair once at the age of eight.
C. Elsie's goal was to raise 11,000 for the charity.
D. Elsie's families were proud of her choice to help others.
(
B
) 3. What does the underlined word "it" in Paragraph 5 refer to?
A. Cancer awareness. B. Elsie's hair. C. The money raised. D. Elsie's goal.
(
C
) 4. Which of the following words can best describe Elsie Kennedy?
A. Beautiful and smart. B. Talented and creative.
C. Kind and helpful. D. Hard-working and brave.
(
D
) 5. What does the text mainly talk about?
A. How to grow long hair like the fairytale character Rapunzel.
B. The reasons why purple is the colour of cancer awareness.
C. The importance of donating hair to make wigs for children.
D. A girl's kindness and her efforts to help children with cancer.
