对于正在准备英语专业四级考试（TEM-4）的同学们来说，阅读理解部分一直是考查语言综合能力的重要环节。为了帮助大家更好地掌握答题技巧、提升阅读速度与理解能力，以下是一份精选的“2018年英语专业四级阅读理解冲关试题及答案”，内容原创，适合考前模拟训练。
一、阅读理解题目
Passage 1
In recent years, the concept of “smart cities” has become a hot topic around the world. A smart city is one that uses information and communication technologies (ICT) to improve the quality of life for its residents. These technologies help manage urban systems such as transportation, energy, and waste management more efficiently.
One of the key features of a smart city is the use of big data. By collecting and analyzing large amounts of data from various sources, city planners can make better decisions about how to allocate resources and plan future developments. For example, traffic patterns can be analyzed to reduce congestion, and energy usage can be optimized to lower costs and environmental impact.
However, the development of smart cities also raises concerns. Privacy issues are one of the main challenges. With so much data being collected, there is a risk that personal information could be misused or exposed. Additionally, not all citizens may have equal access to the technology that supports smart city initiatives, which could lead to increased inequality.
Despite these challenges, many governments and organizations continue to invest in smart city projects. The goal is to create more sustainable, efficient, and livable urban environments for the future.
Questions:
1. What is the main purpose of a smart city?
A. To increase the number of high-tech companies.
B. To improve the quality of life through technology.
C. To attract more tourists.
D. To build more skyscrapers.
2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of using big data in smart cities?
A. Reducing traffic congestion.
B. Lowering energy costs.
C. Increasing crime rates.
D. Improving urban planning.
3. According to the passage, what is one of the major concerns regarding smart cities?
A. High construction costs.
B. Environmental pollution.
C. Privacy issues.
D. Lack of public interest.
4. What is the author’s attitude towards smart cities?
A. Negative.
B. Neutral.
C. Positive.
D. Indifferent.
Passage 2
The role of education in society has always been debated. Some argue that it should focus on preparing students for the job market, while others believe that its primary purpose is to cultivate critical thinking and moral values.
In the modern world, where technological advancements are rapid and economic conditions are constantly changing, the demand for skilled workers is higher than ever. As a result, many educational institutions have shifted their focus toward practical skills and vocational training. This trend is especially evident in countries with high unemployment rates, where education is often seen as a means to secure employment.
However, this approach has its critics. They argue that an overemphasis on job training may come at the expense of broader intellectual and ethical development. Without a strong foundation in literature, history, and philosophy, students may lack the ability to think independently and make informed decisions.
Moreover, some educators believe that education should not only serve individual interests but also contribute to the development of a just and democratic society. In this view, schools have a responsibility to teach students about civic duties, social justice, and global citizenship.
While both perspectives have valid points, the ideal education system would strike a balance between practical skills and intellectual growth.
Questions:
5. What is the main debate discussed in the passage?
A. Whether education should be free or not.
B. Whether education should focus on job skills or values.
C. Whether schools should offer more sports programs.
D. Whether students should study abroad.
6. Why do some educational institutions focus on vocational training?
A. Because they want to reduce class sizes.
B. Because of the high demand for skilled workers.
C. Because of government pressure.
D. Because of student preferences.
7. According to the passage, what is one disadvantage of focusing too much on job training?
A. It increases the cost of education.
B. It leads to higher unemployment.
C. It limits students' ability to think critically.
D. It reduces school funding.
8. What does the author suggest about the ideal education system?
A. It should focus only on job skills.
B. It should focus only on moral values.
C. It should balance practical skills with intellectual growth.
D. It should eliminate all traditional subjects.
二、参考答案
Passage 1:
1. B
2. C
3. C
4. C
Passage 2:
5. B
6. B
7. C
8. C
三、总结建议
阅读理解是英语专业四级考试中分值较高、难度较大的部分。考生在备考时应注重以下几个方面：
- 扩大词汇量：尤其是科技、社会、教育等领域的专业术语。
- 提高阅读速度：通过大量练习，增强对文章结构和逻辑的理解。
- 掌握题型特点：如主旨题、细节题、推理题等，熟悉不同题型的解题技巧。
- 多做真题练习：结合历年真题进行模拟测试，熟悉考试节奏。
希望这份“2018年英语专业四级阅读理解冲关试题及答案”能为你的备考提供帮助，祝你考试顺利！
