2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1)
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2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1)

说明文 · 听力 · 真题文章逐层精读

本页是 2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章的精读视角页——这篇说明文全文 229 词、4 段,CEFR 难度 B2(B2 级在英语四级文章中占 46%),作者立场为「积极支持」;英文原文之外,本篇已有的 11 项精读维度逐项展开,其中能迁移到其他英语四级真题文章的判断方法(篇章结构、修辞、言外之意、作者态度、体裁速判)随各维度一并讲透。

精读最佳实践

本页解析里的段号(P1)都可以点——点一下,原文在顶部翻开并定位到该段,解析引用的原文同步标亮;合上原文,你还停在刚才读到的位置。点 P1 试试。

PASSAGE · 文章原文

4 段英文原文

以下为2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 的听力原文,共 4 段。左侧 P1–P4 是段落编号——本页全部解析(结构、逐段、修辞、自检题)都以它为坐标回指原文,点击解析里的段号,原文即在顶部翻开并定位到该段、引用的原文同步标亮;合上原文仍停在当前阅读位置。原文保持卷面形态,不带翻译与标注。

Lift-off is usually the most environmentally harmful stage of any space mission, with vast quantities of fuel burnt up in a matter of minutes. For instance, SpaceX's Falcon 9 gets through 112 tonnes of refined fuel, emitting about 336 tonnes of CO₂. This is the equivalent produced by your average car driving almost 70 times around the world. As well as greenhouse gases, rocket engines emit particles that destroy ozone. These issues are growing more pressing with the emergence of commercial spaceflight. There were 114 space launches in 2020, but there may be up to 1,000 per year in future.

Sustainable fuels are the top priority to enable greener space travel. Current spacecraft use a variety of fuels, but most are based on fossil fuels. One potentially greener option is liquid hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen can be obtained sustainably by using solar power to break water down into oxygen and hydrogen.

Reusable rockets can cut down on some of the waste associated with spaceflight. Traditionally, boosters, fuel tanks and other components are treated as expendable. But guiding them back to Earth in a controlled manner opens new possibilities — most components from the Falcon 9 can be reused up to 100 times.

Truly environmentally friendly space travel is still some way off. But we already have many of the technologies needed to start limiting its impact on our planet.

PARAGRAPHS · 逐段精读

4 段逐段主旨与解读

逐段拆解2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 的这篇原文——每段给出英文段落主旨、段落标题与中文解读,并提炼一条「这段为什么这样读」的具体方法。

  1. P1

    The Environmental Cost of Launches

    Space launches create serious and growing environmental problems.

    本段是全文的 problem section,它先说明 space travel 为什么需要变绿:发射会排放大量 CO₂、破坏 ozone,而且商业发射增多会使影响更严重。正因为这个 environmental footprint 已经不可忽视,后文才顺理成章转向 sustainable fuels 和 reusable rockets 等解决方案。

    抓问题、看数据、辨趋势
  2. P2

    Sustainable Rocket Fuels

    Sustainable fuels, especially liquid hydrogen, could make space travel greener.

    本段承接前文的污染问题,提出第一项核心 remedy:改变 fuel source。它将“减少环境影响”这一总体目标具体化为 sustainable fuels,并以 liquid hydrogen 的 renewable production 说明这一方案具有现实技术基础。

    先抓方案,再辨例子
  3. P3

    Reusable Rockets, Less Waste

    Reusing rocket components can greatly reduce spaceflight waste.

    本段提供全文第二项解决方案,即通过 reusability 减少物质浪费。它与上一段的 cleaner fuel 形成并列:前者主要处理 emissions,后者主要处理 waste,两者共同服务于降低 spaceflight environmental footprint 的总目标。

    旧式一次性,新式可回收
  4. P4

    Progress Toward Greener Space Travel

    Space travel is not fully green yet, but existing technologies can reduce its impact.

    本段是全文的 conclusion,它回收前文的 fuels、reusable components 等技术讨论,给出审慎而积极的总判断:green space travel 不是立刻可达的终点,但减少 environmental impact 已具备现实起点。这样的结尾既避免绝对化,也强化了全文的解决导向。

    先承认不足,再强调可行
SELF CHECK · 段落自检题

4 道逐段细节自检题

针对2024年12月英语四级真题第2套这篇原文,每段配 1 道细节题( 1 个正确项 + 5 个干扰项 ,由懒笔记精读引擎基于本段命制,非试卷原题)。 选项默认中性;点「显示答案与解析」展开正确项、解析与最快解法,现代浏览器会同步高亮正确选项。

  1. 第 1 段 定位词 more pressing expected

    What is expected to make the environmental problems of spaceflight more pressing?

    • A The complete elimination of carbon dioxide from rocket fuel.
    • B A reduction in the distance travelled by average cars.
    • C A sharp rise in annual launches driven by commercial spaceflight.
    • D The replacement of rocket engines with ozone-protecting devices.
    • E The growing use of unrefined fuel in Falcon 9 launches.
    • F The lower fuel consumption of individual space missions.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:C

    正确项准确压缩了原文的因果链:commercial spaceflight 带来更多 launches,而 annual launches 可能从 114 增至 up to 1,000。题干问的是问题为何更 pressing,真正的逻辑落点便是活动规模扩大,而不是单次发射排出多少 CO₂。障碍在于它把具体数字改写为 A sharp rise,考生需要识别数量级变化,而不能机械等待原词复现。

    盯住千次预测 时间极紧时,不必从开头顺读。先抓题干中的 expected 与 more pressing,在 第1段 直接扫 may、in future 和数字表达;然后采用“数量级跳变”法:只比较各选项是否概括了从现状到未来的大幅规模变化。能承接这一跳变的正确项即为答案项,其他含 pollution、car 或 ozone 的选项即使词汇熟悉,也只是背景碎片。

  2. 第 2 段 定位词 hydrogen sustainable way

    How can hydrogen be obtained in a sustainable way for space travel?

    • A By refining fossil fuels with oxygen.
    • B By burning liquid hydrogen in place of solar power.
    • C By collecting oxygen emitted by rocket engines.
    • D By using solar power to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
    • E By reusing water from returned fuel tanks.
    • F By converting carbon dioxide directly into liquid oxygen.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:D

    该项完整保留了原文的两个不可拆分的信息块:能源来源是 solar power,化学过程是把 water 分解为 hydrogen and oxygen。它精准回应 How can,而非只说明 hydrogen 是一种 option。命题障碍在于 split water 是对 break water down 的同义改写,且正确项把原句语序调整为过程优先,考生须抓住语义而非逐词匹配。

    截取方式动词链 最快方式是在 第2段 用题干的 hydrogen 锁定句群,再执行“介词短语截取”:专找 by、using 一类方式标记后的动词链,而不读前面的评价句。将该动词链与各选项比对,唯一同时交代 power source 和 water transformation 的正确项即为答案项。这个方法比逐个翻译 fuel 名词更快。

  3. 第 3 段 定位词 controlled manner make possible

    What does guiding rocket components back to Earth in a controlled manner make possible?

    • A The permanent disposal of boosters and fuel tanks in space.
    • B The elimination of all waste from every space mission.
    • C The production of new fuel tanks after each launch.
    • D The use of solar power to guide rockets back to Earth.
    • E The repeated reuse of major rocket components.
    • F The destruction of ozone-damaging particles before lift-off.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:E

    原文先说明引导部件受控返回会 opens new possibilities,随后立刻用 Falcon 9 的 most components can be reused up to 100 times 加以具体化。正确项将例证中的次数提炼为 repeated reuse,准确呈现技术动作的结果。障碍在于选项没有照抄 100 times,也没有逐一列出 boosters、fuel tanks,要求考生识别概括与例证之间的关系。

    越过转折抓收益 在 第3段,先由 controlled 锁到动作句,不必完整翻译传统做法;视线直接越过破折号或转折后的说明,抓取带有 possibility 与次数例证的结论。再用“旧新对撞”判别:凡是描述一次性处置、持续制造或绝对清零的选项,都与正确项所概括的循环效益不符。

  4. 第 4 段 定位词 environmentally friendly space travel

    What is the author's view of environmentally friendly space travel?

    • A It has already become completely harmless to the planet.
    • B It is impossible because the necessary technologies do not exist.
    • C It depends entirely on ending all commercial spaceflight.
    • D It can be achieved only by using fossil fuels more efficiently.
    • E It requires rockets to be reused exactly one hundred times.
    • F It remains distant, though technologies already exist to reduce its environmental impact.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:F

    该项完整复现作者的平衡判断:remains distant 对应 still some way off,technologies already exist 对应 already have many of the technologies needed,reduce its environmental impact 对应 start limiting its impact。它没有把 limited progress 误说成 full achievement。障碍在于 though 结构要求考生同时接受两面信息,任何只说悲观或只说乐观的概括都不完整。

    极端词优先核验 高压时间下,直接定位 第4段 的 environmentally friendly space travel,不再回看前文所有技术例子。采用“极端词优先核验法”:重点检查 completely、impossible、entirely、only、exactly 等绝对限定是否有原文依据,再核验剩余正确项中的每个判断是否都与总结句的程度和逻辑一致。该法利用说明文总结句的语气特征,比逐一回查所有技术细节更高效。

STRUCTURE · 篇章结构

4 个意群的说明文骨架

按说明文 的行文骨架切分意群,每个意群标注它覆盖的段落与对主旨的作用——逐段读完后回到这里俯瞰全篇,能看清作者为什么按这个顺序行文。

  1. 航天发射的环境危害现状

    这个 opening segment 首先通过 concrete example 即 SpaceX's Falcon 9 来 illustrate 火箭发射 the most harmful stage 是 lift-off 阶段,burning massive fuel 会 emit 大量 CO₂ 和 ozone-destroying particles,接着 point out 随着 commercial spaceflight 的 emergence,launch frequency 可能从 2020 年的 114 次增长到 future 每年 1,000 次,这使得 environmental issues 变得 increasingly pressing

    作为 expository text 的 problem statement,这个 sense group 通过 quantify emissions 和 highlight growing scale 来 establish 为什么需要 greener solutions,为后文的 solutions 做 necessary groundwork,让 readers 理解 urgency

    问题呈现
  2. 可持续燃料解决方案

    这个 solution segment 首先 state 了 sustainable fuels 是 top priority for greener travel,然后 explain current situation 即 most spacecraft 依赖 fossil-based fuels,接着 introduce 一个 potentially greener option 也就是 liquid hydrogen and oxygen,最后 elaborate 如何 obtain hydrogen sustainably 通过 solar-powered water splitting

    作为 solution-oriented exposition 的 first solution,这个 sense group 通过 contrast current practice 和 sustainable alternative 来 demonstrate 具体的 technological pathway,为 reducing environmental footprint 提供 fuel-level strategy,符合说明文 from problem to solutions 的 explanatory logic

    燃料层面应对
  3. 可重复使用火箭技术

    这个 parallel solution segment 先 state 了 reusable rockets 能 cut down waste associated with spaceflight,然后 contrast traditional practice 即 treating components as expendable,最后 illustrate new possibilities 通过 Falcon 9 的 example,其 most components 可以 reused up to 100 times

    作为 second parallel solution 在 expository structure 中,这个 sense group 通过 explain reusability concept 和 provide concrete case 来 demonstrate 另一种 reducing environmental impact 的 approach,与 fuel solution 形成 complementary strategies,丰富了说明文的 solution dimension

    硬件层面应对
  4. 环保航天的现实评估

    这个 concluding segment 先 acknowledge 了 truly eco-friendly space travel 仍然 some way off,然后用 but 转折 point out 我们 already have many technologies needed 来 start limiting impact on our planet,形成 realistic yet hopeful 的 closing perspective

    作为 expository conclusion,这个 sense group 通过 balance current limitations 和 available technologies 来 provide overall assessment,既 temper expectations 又 affirm feasibility,完成了说明文从 problem identification 经过 solution explanation 到 realistic outlook 的 complete argumentative arc

    可行性评价
MAIN IDEA · 速判主旨

4 步定位这篇文章的主旨

不读完全篇也能锁定主旨——以下 4 步按2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 这篇原文的实际行文顺序给出,每步说明看哪里、看出什么,可直接迁移到其他英语四级文章。

  1. 首段识别核心问题 P1

    说明文通常在 opening paragraph 就会 present 核心问题或现象,这篇文章的 第1段 直接点出了 spaceflight 的 environmental harm,特别是 CO₂ emissions 和 ozone destruction 这两个 key issues,这就是整篇文章的 problem foundation

  2. 中间段列举解决方案 P2 P3

    第2段 和 第3段 分别介绍了 sustainable fuels 和 reusable rockets 这两个 distinct solutions,每段都有明确的 topic focus(一个是 fuel alternatives,一个是 component reusability),这种 parallel structure 表明文章主旨是 solution-focused explanation

  3. 末段评估现状与前景 P4

    第4段 用 still some way off 表明 current limitations,但紧接着用 But we already have 转向 existing capabilities,这种 balanced conclusion 说明文章主旨不是单纯的 pessimism 或 optimism,而是 realistic assessment of both challenges and available solutions

  4. 三段式结构整合 P1 P2 P3 P4

    这篇文章的主旨不是单纯描述 environmental impact,也不是仅仅 list solutions,而是 present 一个 complete picture:spaceflight 造成什么 damage(第1段),有哪些 emerging technologies 可以 mitigate(第2段-3),以及目前的 progress status(第4段)。这种 three-part structure 是说明文的经典 pattern

主旨信号词 environmentally harmful P1 sustainable P2 reusable P3 still some way off P4

MAIN IDEA · 主旨

这篇文章在说什么

这篇说明文解释了太空发射对环境的影响,特别是二氧化碳排放和臭氧层破坏,并描述了新兴的解决方案,包括液氢等可持续燃料、可重复使用的火箭部件,以及随着商业发射增加而需要的减少太空飞行环境足迹的技术。
This expository text explains the environmental impact of space launches, particularly CO₂ emissions and ozone depletion, and describes emerging solutions including sustainable fuels like liquid hydrogen, reusable rocket components, and technologies needed to reduce spaceflight's environmental footprint as commercial launches increase.
WORD INFERENCE · 生词推断

4 个生词的上下文推断

不查词典,只用文中线索推出词义——每个词给出推断出的释义与 完整推理链。已收录进英语四级高频真题词集的单词可点击进入词条页。

  • booster 助推器

    现在让我们把三条 clues 串联起来。首先,从 parallel structure 我们知道 booster 和 fuel tank 同属 rocket components,是某种物理部件。然后,从 pronoun reference 和 action context 我们发现这个部件会 separate from the rocket 并且可以被 guided back to Earth,说明它在发射过程中起作用后会脱离。最后,从 morphology 分析,boost 表示'推进',加上 -er 后缀就是'提供推进力的装置'。三条线索共同指向一个结论:booster 是火箭发射时提供额外 thrust(推力)的 detachable component(可分离部件),用完后会 drop off(脱落)。

    结构定类+动作定性+词根定义
  • expendable 一次性的,可消耗的

    让我们整合 two clues。从 contrastive structure 我们得知,expendable 描述的是与'reusable and recoverable'相对立的传统做法。从 morphological breakdown 我们得知,expend 是'消耗',加上 -able 就是'可消耗的、可用尽的'。两条线索指向同一个 conclusion:expendable 形容那些被设计为 single-use 的物品,use once and throw away(用一次就扔掉),不需要 preserve(保存)或 bring back(带回)。在 space industry 中,这就是传统的'一次性'设计理念,与现代的 reusable rocket technology 形成鲜明对比。

    词根含义+able被动化+对比验证
  • emission 排放,排放物

    现在让我们 synthesize(综合)这两条 clues。从 causal relationship 我们得知,burning fuel 导致 emit CO₂ and particles,所以 emit 是一个描述'物质被释放出来'的动词。从 morphology 我们得知,-ion 把动词 emit 转化为名词 emission,表示 the act or the thing being emitted(排放行为或被排放物)。结合 environmental discourse(环境话语),emission 特指 the release of pollutants(污染物的释放),尤其是 greenhouse gases 和 ozone-depleting substances(消耗臭氧层的物质)。第1段 中提到的 336 tonnes of CO₂ 就是 emissions,是火箭发射的 environmental impact(环境影响)之一。

    动词行为+ion双重名词化+语境择义
  • sustainable 可持续的,不损耗资源的

    让我们 integrate 这两条 clues。从 contextual association 我们得知,sustainable 是实现 greener space travel 的关键属性,与 renewable energy sources like solar power 密切相关,对立面是 fossil fuels。从 morphological analysis 我们得知,sustain 是'维持',加上 -able 就是'可维持的、可持续的'。两条线索共同指向:sustainable 描述的是那些可以 long-term maintained without exhausting resources(长期维持而不耗尽资源)的事物。在 environmental science 中,sustainability 是 core principle(核心原则),强调 balance between current needs and future availability(当前需求与未来可用性之间的平衡)。文章用 solar-powered hydrogen 作为例子,正是因为太阳能可以 constantly replenished(持续补充),符合 sustainable 的定义。

    字面可持续+环境伦理内涵+对比例证
RHETORIC · 修辞手法

6 处修辞手法与仿写

每处修辞给出它在本文的具体用法、同类信号词清单与一份可直接套用的 写作仿写建议——读完能认,也能写。

  • 列数字

    P1 P3

    文章通过 precise figures 展现了 spaceflight 的 environmental cost,比如 Falcon 9 burns 112 tonnes of fuel 并 emits 336 tonnes of CO₂,这个 quantitative data 让 abstract concept 变得 concrete and tangible。通过把 emission 等同于 a car driving 70 times around the world,readers 能直观感受到 scale of impact。此外 114 launches in 2020 和 potential 1,000 launches 的对比,effectively highlights 问题的 urgency,强化了文章关于 environmental pressure 不断 intensifying 的 main argument。

    信号词 tonnes times per year up to about almost 112 336 70 114 1,000 100

    仿写: 写作时要问自己:what exactly is the scale? 比如不说 'pollution is serious',而是 specify '排放了 X tonnes of pollutants'。数字要 strategically chosen,既要 accurate 又要能 resonate with readers。可以用 conversion technique,把 unfamiliar numbers 转化成 relatable comparisons。模版:'[Subject] [action verb] [specific number + unit], which equals/is equivalent to [relatable comparison].' 例如:'The factory consumes 50,000 liters of water daily, equivalent to the usage of 200 households.'

  • 打比方

    P1

    文章用 'your average car driving almost 70 times around the world' 这个 vivid analogy 来 illustrate CO₂ emissions。这个 comparison 把 abstract quantity (336 tonnes) 转化成 everyday scenario that readers can visualize。Most people 理解 driving around the world 是 monumental journey,multiply by 70 就 dramatically conveys the environmental impact。这个 figurative device 对 main idea 的 contribution 在于 making scientific data emotionally resonant,helping readers grasp severity without needing technical background。

    信号词 equivalent to like is the same as similar to comparable to can be compared to as if just as

    仿写: 创作时思考:what does my audience already know? 然后 find parallels between your topic and their daily life。The analogy should be universally relatable 且 proportionally accurate。避免 far-fetched comparisons 会 confuse rather than clarify。模版结构:'[Technical fact], which is like/equivalent to [everyday scenario that conveys similar scale/impact].' 例如:'The data center processes 10 petabytes daily, like storing the entire Library of Congress 50 times over.'

  • 举例子

    P1 P2

    文章用 'SpaceX's Falcon 9' 作为 concrete example 来 demonstrate launch emissions,用 'liquid hydrogen and oxygen' 作为 sustainable fuel 的 specific instance。Examples provide tangible evidence for abstract claims about environmental damage 和 potential solutions。Falcon 9 isn't just random choice,it's 市场上 widely recognized reusable rocket,making the example both credible and relevant。这些 specific cases 帮助 anchor theoretical discussion in reality,strengthening 文章关于 current problems 和 feasible alternatives 的 argumentation。

    信号词 for instance for example such as like including take...as an example consider one example is

    仿写: 选择 examples 时问:is this instance typical and recognizable? The example should directly support your point without requiring excessive explanation。可以用 'for instance', 'such as', 'take...as an example' 来 introduce it smoothly。Specific names, brands, or cases 比 generic descriptions 更 persuasive。模版:'[General statement]. For instance/example, [specific case with details] [shows/demonstrates/illustrates the point].' 例如:'Renewable energy is becoming mainstream. For instance, Denmark now generates over 50% of its electricity from wind power.'

  • 作比较

    P1 P3

    文章通过 contrasting 114 launches in 2020 和 projected 1,000 per year in future,sharply illustrates growth trajectory。这个 dramatic comparison (接近 9 倍增长) emphasizes accelerating pace of commercial spaceflight 和 corresponding environmental challenges。另一处是 contrasting traditional expendable rockets 与 reusable rockets (Falcon 9 components can be reused up to 100 times vs. single use)。这些 comparisons 对 main idea 的 contribution 是 highlighting both problem escalation 和 solution effectiveness,creating strong contrast that underscores urgency for sustainable practices。

    信号词 but while traditionally in contrast however whereas compared to rather than unlike on the other hand

    仿写: Craft comparisons 时确保 items being compared share comparable dimensions。Use contrastive markers like 'but', 'while', 'traditionally...but now', 'in contrast'。Numbers make comparisons especially powerful when showing change over time or superiority of alternatives。模版:'[Item A] [characteristic/action], but/while [Item B] [contrasting characteristic/action].' 或 '[Past/traditional approach], but [current/new approach].' 例如:'Traditional bulbs consume 60 watts, while LED bulbs use only 10 watts for the same brightness.'

  • 分类别

    P2 P3

    文章把 solutions 分成 distinct categories:sustainable fuels (第2段) 和 reusable components (第3段)。这个 categorical organization 用 'Sustainable fuels are the top priority' 和 'Reusable rockets can cut down' 作为 separate sections 的 topic sentences。每个 category addresses different aspect of environmental problem (fuel emissions vs. waste)。这种 classification 对 main idea 的价值在于 presenting a systematic approach to greener spaceflight,showing that solutions exist across multiple dimensions,making the overall argument more comprehensive and convincing。

    信号词 types of categories can be divided into include consists of falls into one...another first...second

    仿写: 建立 classification 时确保 categories are mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive。Use parallel structure for each category introduction,通常 each gets its own paragraph with clear topic sentence。可以用 enumeration (first, second) 或 thematic labels。模版:'[Topic] can be divided into [number] categories: [Category 1] [brief description]; [Category 2] [brief description].' 每个 category 单独展开时用:'[Category name] [verb showing its role/effect]...' 例如:'Energy sources fall into two categories: renewable energy includes solar and wind; non-renewable energy encompasses fossil fuels.'

  • 作诠释

    P2 P3

    文章对 'sustainable fuels' 进行 explanation,clarifying that 'Hydrogen can be obtained sustainably by using solar power to break water down'。这个 interpretive statement 不只 define the term,而是 explain the process that makes it sustainable。对 'reusable rockets' 的诠释也类似,explaining 'guiding them back to Earth in a controlled manner opens new possibilities' 并 specifying 'most components...can be reused up to 100 times'。这些 interpretations 对 main idea crucial because they help readers understand not just what solutions exist,而是 how they actually work and why they're environmentally beneficial,deepening comprehension beyond surface labels。

    信号词 by through by means of this means in other words that is which by doing can be achieved by

    仿写: Craft interpretations by asking 'how does this work?' or 'why is this significant?' 而不是 simply 'what is this?' Use explanatory phrases like 'by...', 'through...', 'this means...', 'in other words' to introduce interpretation。The explanation should add meaningful insight beyond basic definition。模版:'[Concept] [works/is achieved] by [process/mechanism explanation]' 或 '[Concept], which [explains its nature or significance].' 例如:'Cloud computing achieves flexibility by distributing resources across remote servers, allowing users to scale capacity instantly without owning physical infrastructure.'

IMPLIED MEANING · 言外之意

5 处话里有话

作者没有明说、但靠信号词传递出来的态度与暗示——每处给出原文片段、信号词类型与解读。

  • 火箭发射环境危害的严重性通过具体数据强化

    P1
    vast quantities of fuel burnt up in a matter of minutes

    程度强化词 vast quantities vast enormous massive significant substantial considerable

    作者使用 'vast quantities' 这个 strong descriptor,配合 specific figures(112 tonnes fuel, 336 tonnes CO₂),其 implication 是:space launches 的 environmental impact 远比 general public 想象的要 severe。通过 comparison(相当于 car 绕地球 70 圈),further reinforce 这种 severity。这个 implicature 为整篇文章的 main thesis 奠定基础——既然 impact 如此 substantial,那么寻找 sustainable alternatives 就变得 urgent and necessary。

  • 问题紧迫性通过时态变化暗示

    P1
    These issues are growing more pressing with the emergence of commercial spaceflight

    进行时态暗示趋势 are growing more pressing are growing are becoming are increasing are escalating are worsening are intensifying

    'Are growing more pressing' 这个 present continuous form 配合 future projection(may be up to 1,000 launches),其 implication 非常清晰:environmental crisis 不是 hypothetical future problem,而是 ongoing reality 正在 accelerate。作者通过这个 tense choice 传递 urgency,暗示如果现在不 implement sustainable solutions,随着 commercial spaceflight 的 expansion,damage 将会 multiply dramatically。这为文章后续介绍的 sustainable fuels 和 reusable rockets 提供了 compelling rationale。

  • 潜在解决方案通过模糊限制语暗示不确定性

    P2
    One potentially greener option is liquid hydrogen and oxygen

    模糊限制语 potentially possibly may might could likely probably

    'Potentially greener' 而不是 'greener' 这个 word choice,其 implication 是:liquid hydrogen and oxygen 虽然在 theory 上 more sustainable(因为可以通过 solar power 获得),但在 practical implementation 方面仍有 uncertainties。作者通过这个 hedge 暗示:这个 solution 并非 ready-made answer,可能涉及 infrastructure investment, cost-effectiveness concerns, 或 scalability issues。这种 cautious tone 与文章结尾 'still some way off' 的 assessment 相呼应,共同构建了 realistic evaluation 而非 overly optimistic outlook。

  • 传统做法的负面性通过被动语态暗示

    P3
    Traditionally, boosters, fuel tanks and other components are treated as expendable

    被动语态暗示批评 are treated as expendable are treated as are considered are regarded as are viewed as are discarded are disposed of

    'Traditionally...are treated as expendable' 后紧接着 'But guiding them back...',这个 contrast structure 的 implication 很明显:传统的 single-use approach 是 wasteful and unsustainable。作者通过 'expendable' 这个 loaded term,暗示这种 practice 与 environmental responsibility 相矛盾。接着介绍 Falcon 9 可以 reuse up to 100 times,这个 stark contrast 进一步 reinforce 传统做法的 wastefulness。这个 implicature 支持文章主旨中关于 reducing spaceflight's environmental footprint 的 argument。

  • 实现目标的长期性通过距离隐喻暗示

    P4
    Truly environmentally friendly space travel is still some way off

    委婉表达 still some way off some way off a long way to go far from not yet still distant remains elusive

    'Still some way off' 这个 euphemistic expression 的 implication 是:尽管文章介绍了 sustainable fuels 和 reusable rockets,但 truly green space travel 仍需 significant time, investment, 和 technological breakthroughs。但作者立即用 'But' 引入 positive qualifier:'we already have many of the technologies needed',这个 turn 传递 cautious optimism。整个 implicature 是:目标虽然 distant,但 not unattainable,现有的 foundational technologies 让 progress possible。这个 balanced assessment 避免了 excessive pessimism,同时维持了文章的 realistic and credible tone,呼应了全文关于 environmental challenges 和 emerging solutions 的 nuanced discussion。

AUTHOR ATTITUDE · 作者态度

作者态度:积极支持

结论先行:本文作者态度为积极支持( Cautiously optimistic about greener space travel)。下面是按步骤还原的判断过程与文中的态度信号词。

  1. 问题呈现定基调 P1

    首段的 tone 决定了整篇文章的 direction。作者用 harmful、destroy 这些词,combined with 具体的 emission data,表明他 acknowledges 这个 problem 的 seriousness,这为后文提出 solutions 做了 铺垫。

  2. 解决方案篇幅占比 P2 P3

    作者花了两个完整的 paragraphs 来 elaborate on solutions,而且用的都是 constructive language,这说明他不只是 point out problems,更 importantly 是在 promote possible improvements,这是 supportive attitude 的 clear indicator。

  3. 转折强调现有潜力 P4

    结尾的 But 转折是 attitude 的 decisive signal。虽然作者 admits 完全 environmentally friendly 的 space travel 还很 distant,但他 emphasizes 现有的 technologies 和可以 start limiting impact 的 possibility,这种 acknowledge limitations but highlight potential 的 pattern 体现了 cautiously optimistic stance。

  4. 问题到方案到希望 P1 P2 P3 P4

    说明文的 logical flow 本身就 reveals author's stance。这篇文章不是单纯的 problem description 也不是 unrealistic advocacy,而是 present challenges → explore solutions → acknowledge limitations but emphasize potential,这个 three-stage progression 就是 cautiously optimistic attitude 的 textual embodiment。

文中的态度信号词

  • top priority P2

    Top priority 这个 phrase 直接 indicates 作者认为 sustainable fuels 是 most important 的 direction,这种 prioritization language 在说明文中是 clear endorsement,表明作者不只是 mention a solution,而是 actively advocate for it。

    同类词 crucial essential key vital critical

  • potentially greener P2

    Potentially greener 这个 comparative expression 表明作者在 evaluate options 时用 environmental benefit 作为 criterion,greener 这个词本身就 carries positive connotation,说明作者 values 这个 direction of improvement。

    同类词 more sustainable environmentally friendly cleaner lower-emission eco-friendly

  • can cut down on P3

    Can cut down on 这个 modal verb + action phrase 的 combination 表达了 capability and positive outcome,作者用 can 而不是 might 或 could,shows 他对这个 solution 的 confidence level 较高,这种 assertive modal 是 supportive stance 的 linguistic marker。

    同类词 can reduce help minimize enable降低 allow us to decrease make it possible to limit

  • opens new possibilities P3

    Opens new possibilities 这种 forward-looking language 表达了 optimism about future developments,possibilities 这个词 inherently positive,combined with opens 这个 active verb,conveys 作者对 reusable technology 的 enthusiasm and hope。

    同类词 creates opportunities enables potential unlocks options paves the way for offers promise

  • But P4

    这个 But 是整篇 attitude 的 turning point,作者先 concede difficulty (still some way off),然后用 But 转向 existing capabilities,这个 contrastive connector 把 emphasis 从 limitations shift 到 possibilities,是 cautiously optimistic stance 的 structural signal。

    同类词 However Nevertheless Nonetheless Yet Still

  • already have P4

    Already have 这个 present perfect tense 强调 current possession and readiness,already 这个 adverb 特别重要,它 implies 我们不需要 wait for future breakthroughs,resources are here now,这种 present capability emphasis 是 optimism 的 grammatical encoding。

    同类词 currently possess now available exist today in place at our disposal

GENRE · 速判体裁

30 秒判定这是一篇说明文

体裁决定读法与出题套路。以下判断步骤与标志词全部以本文为例,可直接迁移到其他英语四级 真题文章。

如何快速判断这是一篇说明文?

  1. 开篇识别说明对象 P1

    本文第一段直接介绍 lift-off 这个 stage 的 environmental impact,然后提供 specific data 和 examples 来 illustrate 这个 phenomenon。这是典型的 expository pattern,focus 在客观呈现 facts,而非 express opinions 或 report breaking news events。议论文会在开头提出 controversial claim 需要 defend,新闻报道则会用 5W1H 的 lead paragraph 来 summarize 最新发生的 event。

  2. 识别分类说明结构 P2 P3

    本文的 middle paragraphs 用清晰的 categorical structure 来说明 three different approaches:sustainable fuels、reusable rockets、future technologies。每个 paragraph 都以 topic sentence 开头,introduce 一个 specific aspect,然后用 supporting details 来 explain。这种 organize by categories 的方式是 expository writing 的标志。议论文会用 logical progression 来 build arguments(如 firstly、moreover、therefore),新闻报道则倾向于用 inverted pyramid structure 按重要性 arrange information。

  3. 检测客观说明语言 P1 P2 P3 P4

    文章通篇使用 present tense verbs('rockets emit'、'hydrogen can be obtained')来描述 general truths 和 processes。大量 technical terms 如 'greenhouse gases'、'ozone'、'liquid hydrogen' 都用于 precise description。语气保持 neutral 和 informative,没有 emotive adjectives 或 persuasive modals。议论文会频繁使用 modal verbs(should、must、need to)来 express necessity 和 make recommendations,新闻报道则会用 past tense 来 report completed events 和 include quotations from sources。

  4. 确认信息传递意图 P1 P2 P3 P4

    本文的 ultimate purpose 是 explain 太空旅行的 environmental impact 和 possible solutions,而非 argue for specific policies 或 report recent news。它通过 present factual information about emissions、introduce alternative technologies、discuss future possibilities 来完成 expository function。结尾段 'Truly environmentally friendly space travel is still some way off' 虽然 make a conclusion,但仍然是 factual assessment rather than persuasive call to action,符合说明文的 informative nature。

哪些词暴露了说明文体裁?

  • For instance P1 说明顺序与例证词 for instance for example such as like including
  • is P1 事物属性功能描述词 are means refers to consists of comprises
  • with P1 事物属性功能描述词 having featuring characterized by accompanied by associated with
  • These issues P1 说明对象定义解释词 these issues this problem the phenomenon such matters the situation
  • are P2 说明对象定义解释词 is defined as means refers to can be described as constitutes
  • but P2 说明顺序与例证词 however while whereas on the other hand in contrast
  • can P2 事物属性功能描述词 may is able to has the ability to is capable of enables
  • by using P2 说明顺序与例证词 through via by means of with the help of using
  • Traditionally P3 说明顺序与例证词 traditionally historically in the past previously formerly
  • But P3 说明顺序与例证词 but however yet still nevertheless
  • opens P3 事物属性功能描述词 enables provides allows makes possible facilitates
  • is P4 事物属性功能描述词 remains stands lies exists continues to be
  • But P4 说明顺序与例证词 but however yet still nonetheless
SENTENCE INSIGHTS · 句子精讲

5 句真题句逐层精讲

下列真题句各有独立的句子解析页——中文翻译、结构树逐层拆解、成分与时态、考点讲解与真题高频词。点击句子进入完整解析。

FAQ · 常见问题

关于 2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 的常见问题

2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章的主旨是什么?
2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章说明文解释了太空发射对环境的影响,特别是二氧化碳排放和臭氧层破坏,并描述了新兴的解决方案,包括液氢等可持续燃料、可重复使用的火箭部件,以及随着商业发射增加而需要的减少太空飞行环境足迹的技术。(英文表述:This expository text explains the environmental impact of space launches, particularly CO₂ emissions and ozone depletion, and describes emerging solutions including sustainable fuels like liquid hydrogen, reusable rocket components, and technologies needed to reduce spaceflight's environmental footprint as commercial launches increase.)
2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章是什么体裁?难度如何?
体裁为说明文,作者立场是积极支持(Cautiously optimistic about greener space travel)。CEFR 难度 B2,全文 229 词、4 段;在英语四级全部 511 篇真题文章中,B2 级共 234 篇(占 46%)。
2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章的篇章结构是怎样的?
全文 4 段按说明文骨架分为 4 个意群:第1段——航天发射的环境危害现状;第2段——可持续燃料解决方案;第3段——可重复使用火箭技术;第4段——环保航天的现实评估。
2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章的作者态度是什么?
作者态度是积极支持(Cautiously optimistic about greener space travel)。判断路径:问题呈现定基调 → 解决方案篇幅占比 → 转折强调现有潜力 → 问题到方案到希望;文中的态度信号词包括 top priority(第2段)、potentially greener(第2段)、can cut down on(第3段)、opens new possibilities(第3段)、But(第4段)、already have(第4段)。
2024年12月英语四级真题第2套 Part II Section C (1) 文章中有哪些值得积累的生词?
按文中出现顺序共 4 个:booster(助推器)、expendable(一次性的,可消耗的)、emission(排放,排放物)、sustainable(可持续的,不损耗资源的),每个词的词义都可以由文中上下文线索推断得出。

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