三、阅读理解(共20小题;每小题2分,满分40分)
A)阅读下面四篇短文,从短文后各题所给的 A、B、C、D 四个选项中,选择最佳选项。
A(2026·江苏扬州期末)
During ancient times, children didn't have smartphones, iPads or computers to entertain themselves. Instead, they came up with interesting games to play in their childhood. Let's take a look.

()1. What was a special feature of the earliest kites in China?
A. They were paper-made and light.
B. They were made of wood.
C. They had bird-shaped designs.
D. They were produced in Beijing.
()2. Why did people enjoy watching shadow plays in ancient times?
A. Because puppets were controlled by machines.
B. Because it was the only way to listen to stories.
C. Because artists performed in front of the screen.
D. Because of the music and beautiful puppets.
()3. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. How hide-and-seek, kite-flying and shadow plays are played.
B. The history of kites and shadow plays in China.
C. Traditional entertainment activities for ancient Chinese children.
D. The differences between ancient and modern children's games.

B 传统文化
Pingshu, a traditional Chinese storytelling art, has a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
Performers usually tell stories in teahouses or small theatres, attracting viewers with their lively voices and gestures(姿态).
To master Pingshu, artists need years of training. Most learn by studying under their teachers—usually experienced performers. As one famous artist, Yuan Kuocheng said, “Pingshu is work both on body and mind. Performers must memorize long stories and add their own explanations to make the stories more attractive. They also need to understand the deeper meanings of the stories and share their thoughts with the viewers.”
During performances, artists stand behind a table. They use tools like a folding fan and a wooden block called Xingmu(醒木). The fan helps act out scenes, like “drawing a sword(剑)”. The Xingmu is knocked on the table to mark the start of the story or to highlight(突出) exciting moments.
Modern technology has brought both challenges and chances to Pingshu. While young people today prefer online entertainment(娱乐), technology allows artists to record their performances. These recordings can be shared widely, helping more people discover Pingshu. They also protect this art for future young people.
More often than not, those who listen to Pingshu stories are older people. While most young people spend hours online, a small number still find value in Pingshu, drawn by its cultural richness and storytelling traditions.
Pingshu is not just entertainment—it carries Chinese culture and wisdom. Through stories, performers connect the past with the present, offering viewers both fun and life lessons.
()4. What can we infer from the third paragraph?
A. Learners usually look for teachers before learning Pingshu skills.
B. Memorizing stories is less important than physical gestures.
C. Pingshu artists can master the skill within a few months.
D. Performers seldom share their personal opinions during shows.
()5. What tool is NOT mentioned for a Pingshu performance?
A. A folding fan to act out scenes.
B. A wooden block to mark key moments.
C. A table to stand behind while performing.
D. A microphone to make their voices louder.
()6. What is modern technology’s influence on Pingshu?
A. It allows artists to perform with less training.
B. It reduces the need for performers to memorize stories.
C. It spreads Pingshu to more people and protects its future.
D. It forces performers to use online tools during shows.
()7. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. Pingshu performers use tools like folding fans and Xingmu in shows.
B. Pingshu, a traditional Chinese art, faces challenges from modern technology.
C. Pingshu has a long history, unique performance ways and cultural value.
D. Older people are the main audience of Pingshu because of its rich stories.