问答题
A Proposal from a Student
I would like to suggest that the University of California, Riverside make swimming a required course for all present and incoming students. This advice is prompted by three reflections. To begin with, college is one of the most stressful times of life for most people. Swimming is an ideal stress-reducing activity. Older swimmers often display a significant decrease in high blood pressure. Another benefit is that swimming is perhaps the ideal exercise, giving a workout to every muscle group. Lastly, students who are relaxed and in good physical condition will increase their study efficiency.
Question: The woman expresses her opinion about the proposal given by a student suggesting making swimming class a required course at the university. State her opinion and explain the reasons she gives for holding that opinion.
Now hear a conversation between two students.
【正确答案】The letter urges that swimming should be a required course at the university because it is a good way to exercise and also relieves students' stress.
The woman strongly disagrees with the suggestion
First, she says that most students already have their preferred exercise and way to relax. This proposal is therefore unnecessary.
Second, a required class is not relaxing. One cannot compel people to have fun. Plus, most students already know how to swim. Requiring them to take the swimming class is a waste of time. As such, the woman thinks this idea is misguided.
【答案解析】[听力原文]
W: What nonsense!
M: Is anything wrong?
W: No, I'm talking about this article in the university newspaper.
M: What does it say?
W: A student wants the school to require everyone to take swimming class.
M: Swimming can be pretty useful. It can even save your life!
W: She's only talking about how swimming is a great way to relax and exercise. But most people already have their own way to relax and to exercise. Take me, I ride a bicycle to lose weight and relax. lt's easy and I don't need to go to the pool, change clothes, get wet and cold.
M: Me either! I like tennis.
W: Besides, if you force people to learn swimming, how relaxed are they going to be? Having to go to a class takes all the fun out of swimming. Plus, anyway, most students already know how to swim. Why should they take the class at all? They'll learn nothing, waste their time, and probably feel more stressed out.
M: True, true.
Alternative Wording(替换表达)
Synonyms (a)required—mandatory (b)compel—force
(c)misguided—wrong-headed
Paraphrases 1. Most people already have their own fitness regimen and way to relax.
2. Since most students are swimmers already, a required class in the subject represents a poor use of their time.