Question

People began to celebrate New Year’s Day thousands of years ago. Today, in most parts of the world, New Year’s Day falls on Jan 1. People celebrate this special day in many different ways.

In the US, as the clock nears midnight on Dec 31, people get together at Times Square, New York. There, they watch the famous New Year’s Eve Ball drop from the top of a pole. With 2,688 crystal triangles (水晶三角), the ball is the shiniest star of the night. Millions of voices count down the final seconds of the year as the ball drops.

While in the UK, people have a tradition of singing Auld Lang Syne (《友誼地久天長》) to welcome the New Year. The song is a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788. Auld lang syne is Scottish for “good old times”. People sing it to show their appreciation for the old and new years.

Australians celebrate New Year’s Day with an amazing fireworks show on Sydney Harbor Bridge at midnight on Dec 31. There are two parts of the fireworks show. One starts at 9 pm. This 8-minute-show is mainly for children and families. The other is at midnight, which is the highlight of the night. The show usually lasts about an hour. People often hug and kiss each other on the cheek to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

1.Where do people usually gather on Dec 31 in the US?

A.On the Golden Gate Bridge.

B.In Times Square.

C.At Central Park.

D.In front of the White House.

2.According to the story, which of the following is TRUE about New Year’s Eve?

A.American people write and read poems.

B.Australians can enjoy a fireworks show at midnight.

C.British people sing Auld Lang Syne and dance until morning.

D.People around the world will hug and kiss each other to celebrate the New Year.

3.What does the story mainly talk about?

A.Why people around the world celebrate New Year’s Day.

B.Why New Year’s Day is the most important holiday around the world.

C.Different ways of celebrating New Year’s Day in different countries.

D.How different traditions can be in different countries.

Answer 1