2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1)
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2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1)

新闻报道 · 听力 · 真题文章逐层精读

本页是 2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 文章的精读视角页——这篇新闻报道全文 250 词、7 段,CEFR 难度 B1(B1 级在英语六级文章中占 3%),作者立场为「客观中立」;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六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

7 段英文原文

以下为2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 的听力原文,共 7 段。左侧 P1–P7 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。

Barbie dolls have a particular look to them. They're thin, tall, long-legged … and virtually unlike any real human being. Although over the years Barbie has had more than 180 different careers—including football coach, sign language teacher, ambassador, president and astronaut—her body shape hasn't changed much.

Last year Mattel, the company that makes Barbie dolls, added some Barbies to its line that have different skin tones and hair textures. There are now Barbies with one of seven skin tones, 22 eye colours and 24 hair styles to choose from. Last year Mattel also gave Barbie a flat foot, rather than forcing her to be "in heels" all the time like the original Barbie is.

Now they are introducing new Barbies with three slightly different body shapes, while the original, tall and thin Barbies will continue to be sold.

In a statement on its website, the company says it wants Barbies to look more like real people, and to give "girls everywhere … infinitely more ways to spark their imagination and play out their stories."

Although many people say the new Barbies are a step in the right direction, some people say they don't go far enough. They say that the new body shapes could be even more different from the original, tall, thin Barbies.

Sales of Barbie dolls have been falling "every year since 2012," according to CBC News.

The toys aren't in stores yet but they will be sold online at the Barbie website, starting this week, for $9.99.

PARAGRAPHS · 逐段精读

7 段逐段主旨与解读

逐段拆解2017年12月英语六级真题第1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 Barbie Paradox: Career Diversity vs. Physical Uniformity

    Barbie dolls have maintained an unrealistic, uniform body shape despite having diverse careers over the years.

    这个 opening paragraph 首段在整篇文章中扮演着 problem establishment 问题确立的角色。它通过描绘 Barbie 的 unrealistic body image 不现实体型问题,为文章主旨中提到的 'more diverse body shapes' 更多样化体型的 introduction 引入提供了 justification 正当理由。段落用 specific details 具体细节(thin, tall, long-legged)让读者 visualize 视觉化这个问题,同时用 career diversity 职业多样性来 emphasize 强调体型单一性的 irony 讽刺意味,这与文章主旨中 'better reflect real people' 更好反映真实人群的 goal 目标形成呼应。

    识别对比结构中的问题设定
  2. P2

    First Steps: Surface-Level Diversity Changes

    Mattel began diversifying Barbie's appearance with varied skin tones, hair textures, and a more realistic flat foot design.

    这个段落在文章 structure 结构中充当 bridge 桥梁角色,它 document 记录了 Mattel 在达到主旨中提到的 'more diverse body shapes' 更多样化体型之前的 preliminary efforts 初步努力。通过展示公司已经在 skin tones 肤色和 hair textures 发质方面做出的 changes 改变,段落建立了一个 progressive narrative 渐进叙事:diversity 多样性不是一蹴而就的,而是 gradual 逐步的。'flat foot' 平底脚这个 detail 尤其 relevant 相关,因为它 foreshadows 预示着更 fundamental 根本性的 body 身体改变,与主旨中的 'body shapes' 体型直接 connect 连接。

    区分并列例证与过渡细节
  3. P3

    The Main Event: New Body Shapes Unveiled

    Mattel is now introducing Barbies with three new body shapes while keeping the original design in production.

    这个 paragraph 是整篇文章的 核心新闻段 news核心,直接 deliver 传递文章主旨中最重要的 element 要素:'new Barbies with more diverse body shapes'。它的 strategic placement 战略位置(在 background context 背景语境之后、official statement 官方声明之前)是 典型的 classic 新闻报道结构,先 establish problem 建立问题(第1段),展示 preliminary efforts 初步努力(第2段),然后 announce 宣布 main solution 主要解决方案(第3段)。注意段落的 brevity 简洁性:仅一句话就 convey 传达了核心信息,这与主旨中的 multi-faceted nature 多面性相呼应——既有 innovation 创新(new shapes)又有 continuity 延续性(original still sold)。

    锁定简洁段落中的核心新闻点
  4. P4

    Official Justification: Realism and Imagination

    Mattel officially states the changes aim to make Barbies more realistic and provide girls with more imaginative play possibilities.

    这个段落在文章中提供了 official perspective 官方视角,supplement 补充说明 第3段 中 announced changes 宣布的改变背后的 stated rationale 表面理由。它与文章主旨的 'better reflect real people' 直接 align 对齐,给读者提供了公司的 intentional narrative 意图叙事。然而,placement 位置很关键:它被放在 critics' response 批评者回应(第5段)和 sales data 销量数据(第6段)之间,这种 sandwich structure 三明治结构 allow 允许读者 juxtapose 并置公司的 idealistic claims 理想化声明与 practical realities 实际现实(批评和销量下滑),体现了 balanced reporting 平衡报道的原则。

    解读引用内容的双重信息
  5. P5

    Critical Response: Progress, But Not Enough

    While many view the new Barbies as progress, critics argue the body shape changes are still too modest.

    这个段落在文章 architecture 架构中提供了 critical counterpoint 批评性对位,直接 correspond 对应文章主旨末尾的 'though critics argue the changes don't go far enough'。它被 strategically placed 战略性地放置在公司 official statement 官方声明(第4段)之后,形成 claim-counterclaim pattern 主张-反驳模式,这是 balanced journalism 平衡新闻的 hallmark 标志。段落的 dual structure 双重结构(acknowledging progress + voicing criticism)让读者 appreciate 理解这个 issue 议题的 contested nature 争议性,避免将 Mattel 的 changes 改变 present 呈现为 unqualified success 无条件的成功,这与主旨的 nuanced portrayal 细致刻画保持一致。

    追踪评价语言的褒贬光谱
  6. P6

    Business Reality: Continuous Sales Decline

    Barbie doll sales have been consistently declining since 2012, providing business context for the changes.

    这个简短但 impactful 有影响力的段落为整篇文章提供了 crucial economic context 关键经济语境,直接 support 支持文章主旨中的 'boost declining sales'。它的 placement 位置非常 strategic 战略性:在 company's idealistic statement 公司理想化声明(第4段)和 critics' response 批评者回应(第5段)之后,这个 sales data 销量数据 implicitly suggest 隐含暗示公司的 diversity initiative 多样性举措可能 driven by 受驱动于 business necessity 商业必需而非纯粹 social conscience 社会良知。这种 implicit questioning 隐含质疑体现了 quality journalism 优质新闻:不直接 accuse 指责,但通过 strategic information placement 战略性信息放置让读者自己 draw connections 建立联系。

    利用数据段落重新解读动机
  7. P7

    Practical Details: Availability and Pricing

    The new Barbie dolls will be available for online purchase starting this week at $9.99.

    这个 concluding paragraph 结尾段落完成了新闻报道的 standard structure 标准结构:从 problem 问题(第1段)到 solution 解决方案(第2段-3)到 reaction 反应(第4段-5)到 context 语境(第6段)最后到 practical information 实用信息(第7段)。它与文章主旨的 connection 联系较弱,因为主旨 focus on 聚焦于 rationale and reception 理由和接受度,而这个段落纯粹 logistical 后勤性的。然而,'online' 线上和 'this week' 本周这些 details 细节 underscore 强调了改变的 immediacy 即时性和 accessibility 可及性,subtle地 suggest 暗示公司 confident 自信这些 changes 改变会 resonate with 与消费者产生共鸣,尽管有 第5段-6 提到的 criticisms 批评和 sales challenges 销量挑战。

    提取结尾段的行动指向信息
SELF CHECK · 段落自检题

7 道逐段细节自检题

针对2017年12月英语六级真题第1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 over the years unchanged

    What has remained largely unchanged about Barbie over the years?

    • A The number of careers available to Barbie.
    • B Her height and long legs have become more realistic.
    • C Her body shape has changed very little.
    • D Her role as a football coach.
    • E The realism of her facial expressions.
    • F The range of her ambassador duties.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:C

    原文以 hasn't changed much 直接回答长期不变的对象,正确项将其改写为 changed very little,语义强度完全对应。障碍在于前面列出多个 careers,考生若只做名词匹配,容易误选职业相关选项。

    转折句截取 时间极紧时,直接抓题干的 remained largely unchanged 和 over the years,回扫 第1段 中唯一带长期回顾的转折句。不要逐项翻译六个选项;先给每项贴上“职业、外形、无据”标签,保留与 body shape 同域且表达不变的正确项。

  2. 第 2 段 定位词 last year footwear

    What change did Mattel make to Barbie's footwear last year?

    • A It made high heels available in seven skin tones.
    • B It removed shoes from all original Barbies.
    • C It created 24 new styles of high-heeled shoes.
    • D It introduced a Barbie with flat feet instead of permanent high heels.
    • E It required every Barbie to wear lower heels.
    • F It replaced flat feet with different hair textures.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:D

    选项准确改写 gave Barbie a flat foot 和 rather than forcing her to be in heels all the time。instead of 保留了原文的替代关系,permanent 对应 all the time。

    部位反查 先以 footwear 反向联想 foot、heels,再在 第2段 进行视觉扫读,last year 只作确认。答案判断不必逐句精译,只核验“flat 对 heels”的替代结构;完整保留该结构的正确项即成立。

  3. 第 3 段 定位词 original tall and thin will happen

    What will happen to the original tall and thin Barbie dolls?

    • A They will be withdrawn from sale immediately.
    • B They will be redesigned into three body shapes.
    • C They will only be sold through the Barbie website.
    • D They will be offered in 22 eye colours.
    • E They will continue to be sold alongside the new versions.
    • F They will be sold at a lower price than the new dolls.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:E

    will continue to be sold 是原文直接信息,alongside the new versions 合理呈现 while 所表达的并存关系。障碍是许多考生看到 new 就推断 old 被替代。

    句尾截答 锁定 第3段 后,直接跳到 original tall and thin 之后读到句末。用“旧款处置”四字过滤选项,凡在谈新款属性或价格的立即排除,剩下完整复现 continue to be sold 的正确项。

  4. 第 4 段 定位词 Mattel say Why

    Why does Mattel say it is expanding the range of Barbie dolls?

    • A To stop the original tall and thin dolls from being sold.
    • B To respond to a legal requirement about body shapes.
    • C To make every doll identical to a real human being.
    • D To offer girls more professional careers to choose from.
    • E To raise the online price of the dolls.
    • F To make Barbie look more like real people and broaden girls' imaginative play.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:F

    该项对应 look more like real people 与 give girls infinitely more ways to spark their imagination and play out their stories 两层目的。broaden 是对 infinitely more ways 的概括,未改变因果方向。

    声明双目的 题干出现 Mattel say 时,直接定位 第4段 的 statement on its website,随后只扫描 wants to 后的两个不定式。把正确项视为“官方目的的双核心同义压缩”,而非寻找最全面的背景说明。

  5. 第 5 段 定位词 some people reservation

    What reservation do some people have about the new Barbies?

    • A The new body shapes are still not different enough from the original model.
    • B The new dolls have no body-shape differences at all.
    • C The original dolls are no longer available.
    • D The dolls should have fewer skin tones and hair styles.
    • E The company has lowered the dolls' quality.
    • F The dolls are too different from real people.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:A

    选项完整保留 don't go far enough 与 even more different from the original 的批评核心。still 和 not enough 准确体现“进步存在但幅度不足”的保留态度。

    程度双筛 先在 第5段 把 many people 和 some people 画成两栏,只读取 some people 后面的两个 say。答案判断采用程度词筛选:正确项必须同时保留“已有改变”和“不够大”的双层含义。

  6. 第 6 段 定位词 CBC News since 2012

    According to CBC News, how have Barbie doll sales performed since 2012?

    • A They have risen steadily every year since 2012.
    • B They have declined every year since 2012.
    • C They fell only in 2012 and then recovered.
    • D They have remained unchanged since 2012.
    • E They declined after the new dolls reached stores.
    • F They have declined by $9.99 each year.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:B

    declined every year 准确改写 have been falling every year since 2012,既保留下降方向,也保留逐年持续性。

    三词核验 无需通读,凭 CBC News 直达 第6段,执行“三词核验”:Sales、falling、every year。正确项是唯一同时保留趋势方向与连续频率的选项;带价格、原因或恢复过程的选项一律跳过。

  7. 第 7 段 定位词 available for purchase Where and when

    Where and when will the new toys first be available for purchase?

    • A They are already available in stores this week.
    • B They will be sold only in physical stores for $9.99.
    • C They will go on sale online at the Barbie website starting this week.
    • D They will be available online after all stores receive them.
    • E They will be launched on the company website next year.
    • F They can be ordered from any retailer beginning at $9.99.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案:C

    online at the Barbie website 与 starting this week 分别完整回答地点和时间。go on sale 是 will be sold 的自然改写,未加入原文没有给出的实体店时间。

    双空填答 直达 第7段 后,不按句序翻译,先用题干建立“地点/时间”两个空格:online at the Barbie website 与 starting this week。正确项必须一次填满两格;价格只是多余信息,不能替代任一空格。

STRUCTURE · 篇章结构

7 个意群的新闻报道骨架

按新闻报道 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. Barbie形象的固有特征与职业多样性的对比

    这个 opening paragraph 通过 describing Barbie's unchanging physical appearance 来 establish 一个 central tension:尽管 Barbie 拥有 180 多种 careers,但她的 body shape 几乎没有 changed,这种 contrast 为后文的 product changes 埋下 foreshadowing。

    作为 news lead 的 background information,这个意群 establishes 为什么 Mattel 需要 introduce new designs,通过 highlighting Barbie's unrealistic body standards 来 justify 后续报道的 newsworthiness。

    点出改革对象的固有问题
  2. Mattel的初步改革措施

    这个 paragraph 报道了 Mattel 去年的 initial changes,包括 adding different skin tones, hair textures, eye colours, hair styles,以及 giving Barbie a flat foot。这些 modifications represent the company's first steps toward diversity。

    作为 news context 的延续,这个意群 provides background on previous changes,为 introducing the main news(new body shapes)做 chronological setup,展示 Mattel's progressive approach to diversity。

    列举已实施的部分改革
  3. 本次新闻的核心内容

    这个 short but crucial paragraph 用 Now 引出 the main news event:Mattel is introducing Barbies with three different body shapes,同时 clarify 原版 Barbies will continue to be sold。这是整篇 article 的 news peg。

    这是 news article 的 核心 nut graph,directly presents the main news。在 inverted pyramid structure 中,这个意群 delivers the most important new information,是读者最需要 know 的 what's happening now。

    宣布核心新品信息
  4. 公司官方解释与动机

    这个 paragraph quotes Mattel's official statement,explaining the company's rationale:让 Barbies look more like real people,并 give girls more ways to spark imagination and play out stories。这是 the official justification for changes。

    在 news reporting 中,这个意群 provides the 'why' behind the 'what',offering official perspective。它 balances the article by including the company's voice,并 explains their stated goals for the product changes。

    提供官方改革理由
  5. 外部评价与批评声音

    这个 paragraph 引入 external perspective,用 Although 表示让步,presenting mixed reactions:many people 认为是 a step in the right direction,但 some people 批评 don't go far enough,认为 new body shapes 还可以更 different。

    作为 balanced reporting 的体现,这个意群 introduces critical perspective,showing that the changes are controversial。它 adds depth by presenting opposing viewpoints,demonstrating the article's objectivity。

    呈现外界褒贬评价
  6. 销售数据背景

    这个 brief paragraph 提供 a crucial piece of context:Barbie sales have been falling every year since 2012,citing CBC News as source。这个 data point explains the business pressure behind the changes。

    在 news analysis 中,这个意群 provides economic context,suggesting that the changes aren't purely altruistic but driven by declining sales。它 adds a business angle to the diversity narrative。

    揭示改革商业动因
  7. 产品发售具体信息

    这个 closing paragraph 提供 practical purchasing details:the toys aren't in stores yet but will be sold online this week for $9.99。这是 actionable information for potential buyers。

    作为 news article 的 practical conclusion,这个意群 provides readers with how and when they can access the product,completing the story with concrete details。

    告知购买渠道和价格
MAIN IDEA · 速判主旨

6 步定位这篇文章的主旨

不读完全篇也能锁定主旨——以下 6 步按2017年12月英语六级真题第1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六级文章。

  1. 首段锁定讨论对象 P1

    新闻报道的 first paragraph 通常会直接点明 the topic or subject matter,这里明确提到了 Barbie dolls 及其 particular look,establish 了文章的讨论对象

  2. 识别公司行动变化 P2 P3

    第二、三段出现了 added, gave, introducing 等 action verbs,配合 last year, now 等 time markers,表明文章在报道 Mattel 公司正在进行的 changes 和 innovations

  3. 公司意图表述 P4

    第四段的 company statement 明确说明了 wants Barbies to look more like real people 和 give girls infinitely more ways,这 reveals the intended purpose 是增加 diversity 和 representation

  4. 争议与批评声音 P5

    第五段用 Although...some people say 和 don't go far enough 等 contrastive language,表明存在 criticism 和 debate,这是文章主旨的 important dimension

  5. 业绩压力背景 P6

    第六段提到 sales have been falling every year since 2012,这个 business context 解释了为什么 Mattel 要 make these changes,是理解完整主旨的 crucial piece

  6. News report 的主旨不是单一信息点,而是 multiple elements 的 integration。这篇文章的主旨包含了 Mattel's action(introducing diverse Barbies),stated purpose(reflect real people),critical response(doesn't go far enough),和 business context(declining sales),这四个 dimensions 构成了 complete picture

主旨信号词 introducing P3 different P2 don't go far enough P5 falling P6 wants P4

MAIN IDEA · 主旨

这篇文章在说什么

美泰公司推出了具有更多样化体型、肤色和特征的新芭比娃娃,以更好地反映真实人群并提振下滑的销量,但批评者认为这些改变在摆脱原有瘦高设计方面还不够彻底。
Mattel is introducing new Barbie dolls with more diverse body shapes, skin tones, and features to better reflect real people and boost declining sales, though critics argue the changes don't go far enough in moving away from the original thin, tall design.
WORD INFERENCE · 生词推断

3 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。已收录进英语六级高频真题词集的单词可点击进入词条页。

  • texture 质地、纹理(指头发的物理特性如粗细、卷直等)

    我们把三条 clues 整合起来。首先,从 parallel structure 看,hair textures 和 skin tones 是 comparable features,一个描述 skin,一个描述 hair。其次,对比 hair styles(发型)这个概念,textures 应该是指 hair 本身的 inherent property 而非 external arrangement。最后,-ure suffix 确认了这是描述某种 quality or state。综合这些 clues,textures 在这里指的应该是 hair 的 physical characteristics,即头发的质地,比如粗细、卷直等 tactile and structural properties。

    并列对比加构词三步定位属性词
  • spark 激发、引发、触发

    整合所有 clues:首先,spark 作为 transitive verb 后接 imagination,说明它对 imagination 产生某种 action。其次,整个 context 是 very positive,用了 infinitely more ways 这样的 language,说明 spark 的 effect 是 beneficial and desirable。最后,spark imagination 和 play out stories 是 sequential actions,前者应该是 initiate 后者的 prerequisite。综合来看,spark 在这里应该是 trigger, ignite, or set off 的意思,即激发、引发想象力。

    动宾关系加情感色彩加逻辑顺序
  • ambassador 大使、使节(代表国家进行外交活动的高级官员)

    综合三条 clues:首先,ambassador 出现在 career list 中,确定了它是一种 profession。其次,它与 president 这样的 high-level political position 并列,说明它也是 prestigious governmental role。最后,-ador suffix 表示这是 a person who performs a specific function,结合 high-level governmental context,应该是 someone who officially represents 某个 entity。综合判断,ambassador 应该是指外交使节、大使,即代表国家进行外交活动的官员。

    列举归类加相对定位加构词验证
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。

  • 数据引用

    P1 P2 P6 P7

    文章通过 precise numbers 来增强说服力,比如提到 Barbie 有超过 180 different careers,现在有 7 种 skin tones、22 种 eye colours 和 24 种 hair styles 可选。这些 specific statistics 不仅 demonstrate Mattel 的改变努力,也让读者对 diversity 的程度有 concrete understanding。特别是引用 'every year since 2012' 的 sales decline data,directly reveals 公司做出改变的 business motivation,支撑了文章关于 Mattel 试图通过 diversification 来 boost sales 的主旨。

    信号词 180 7 22 24 every year since 2012 over more than according to $9.99 starting this week

    仿写: 写作时要 identify key points 需要 substantiation,然后寻找 relevant statistics。比如描述产品变化时,可以问自己:有多少 varieties?覆盖多少 demographics?销量变化如何?模版可以是:'The company now offers X options including [specific numbers], compared to Y in the past' 或 'Sales have been [trend] since [time period], according to [source]'。记住数据要 serve the narrative,不要 overwhelm readers。

  • 引语运用

    P4

    文章在 第4段 直接引用 Mattel 官方 website statement,使用 quotation marks 呈现公司的 official position。这段 direct quote 'girls everywhere … infinitely more ways to spark their imagination and play out their stories' 传达了公司的 marketing message 和 stated intention。通过 present 公司自己的话语,新闻报道 maintains objectivity while allowing readers 自行 judge 公司动机的 authenticity,这对于支撑文章关于 Mattel's motivations 的分析至关重要。

    信号词 says according to statement claims 在引号内的完整句子 quotation marks

    仿写: 使用引语时要 select statements that reveal intent or perspective。Structure 可以是:'In a statement on [platform], [source] says [quote]' 或 '[Organization] claims to want [quoted goal]'。引语应该 self-explanatory yet meaningful,避免 quote mundane facts。在引入前用 attribution phrase (says, according to, claims) 标明 source,引语后可以添加 brief context。记住 balance direct quotes 和 paraphrased information。

  • 客观描述

    P1 P2 P3 P7

    文章开篇用 factual description 呈现 Barbie 的 physical characteristics:'thin, tall, long-legged',然后 objectively state 'virtually unlike any real human being'。这种 neutral reporting style 贯穿全文,比如 'Last year Mattel added'、'Now they are introducing',都是 present facts without judgment。这种 objectivity 让文章在 controversial topic (身体形象) 上保持 journalistic balance,为后面 present different perspectives (支持者和批评者) 建立 credible foundation,最终支撑关于 Mattel's changes 和 public reception 的完整叙述。

    信号词 added introducing continue will be sold has had says 现在时态陈述 过去时态陈述

    仿写: Practice objective writing 要 distinguish facts from opinions。使用 descriptive verbs (add, introduce, continue) 而非 evaluative ones (improve, finally)。Structure: '[Subject] [neutral verb] [factual detail]'。比如 'The company added three body types' 优于 'The company finally added better body types'。Avoid loaded adjectives;如需 characterize,use comparative terms 或 attribute judgments to sources。Present timeline 和 actions without implying approval or criticism。

  • 背景交代

    P1 P6

    第1段 用 historical context 开篇:尽管 Barbie 有超过 180 种 careers,但 'her body shape hasn't changed much'。这个 background information 建立了 current changes 的 historical contrast,解释 why the new dolls 值得 news coverage。同样,第6段 提供 business context,指出 sales 的 consistent decline since 2012,这个 historical trend 揭示 Mattel's motivation,让读者理解改变不仅是 social response 也是 business necessity,完整支撑文章关于公司 motivation 和 market pressure 的主旨。

    信号词 over the years Since 2012 Last year Previously has had hasn't changed Now 将来时态的对比

    仿写: 提供背景时要 identify what readers need to know 来 understand the present。可以用 temporal markers:'Over the years'、'Since [date]'、'Previously'。Structure: 'Although [past situation], [current change]' 或 'For years [background], now [development]'。背景应该 brief yet informative,直接 relevant to the main story。Avoid excessive historical detail;只 include context that directly illuminates 当前 situation。可以用 contrast words (although, however) 来 bridge background and news。

  • 对比手法

    P1 P2 P3 P5

    文章通过 multiple contrasts 来 highlight changes 的 significance。第1段 对比 diverse careers 和 unchanged body;第2段 对比 original Barbie (forced in heels) 和 new version (flat foot);第3段 用 'while' 对比 new body shapes 和 continuing original dolls。最 striking 的对比在 第5段,juxtaposing supporters ('step in the right direction') 和 critics ('don't go far enough')。这些 contrasts 不仅 illustrate the extent of change,也 reveal ongoing controversies,完整呈现 Mattel's partial transformation 和 public's divided reception,perfectly supporting 文章关于 changes 和 criticism 的主旨。

    信号词 while Although but rather than however in contrast some...others step in...don't go far enough

    仿写: 构建对比要 identify two comparable elements with meaningful differences。使用 explicit contrast markers:'while', 'although', 'however', 'in contrast'。Parallel structure 增强效果:'Some say X, others say Y' 或 'Previously [A], now [B]'。可以对比 past/present、different stakeholders、stated goals/actual results。模版:'Although [element 1], [element 2]' 或 '[Group A] believes [view 1], but [Group B] argues [view 2]'。确保对比 serves your point,不是为对比而对比。

  • 设问引导

    P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6

    虽然文章没有 explicit questions,但它通过 implied questions 来 structure the narrative。第1段-3 回答 'What's changing?',第4段 回答 'Why is Mattel doing this?',第5段 回答 'Is this enough?',第6段 回答 'What's the business reason?'。这种 implicit question-answer structure 引导读者思考:What are the changes? Why now? Are they sufficient? 这个 logical progression 帮助读者 follow the story's development,从 describing changes 到 explaining motivations 到 evaluating adequacy,完整支撑文章对 Mattel's initiative 的 multi-dimensional analysis。

    信号词 段落主题的逻辑递进 因果连接词 解释性段落 评价性段落

    仿写: 运用设问引导要 think like your reader:What would they want to know? In what order? Structure paragraphs 来 answer implicit questions sequentially。可以用 explicit questions 作为 section headers 或 topic sentences,但更 subtle 的方式是 organize information 以 answer logical progression of questions。常见序列:What happened? → Why? → Who's affected? → What's the impact? → What's next? 每个 paragraph 应该 address one implied question,即使不 explicitly state it。

IMPLIED MEANING · 言外之意

4 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。

  • Barbie外形长期单一且不现实

    P1
    They're thin, tall, long-legged … and virtually unlike any real human being.

    对比类 virtually unlike any real human being unlike different from in contrast to whereas while as opposed to

    这个 implication 通过 virtual unlike 这个 strong contrastive phrase 暗示 Barbie 的 body image 长期 perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards。虽然表面上只是在 describe Barbie 的 physical features,但通过和 real human beings 的对比,作者 subtly criticizes Barbie 多年来一直 promote 一种 unattainable body type。这为文章后续讲述 Mattel 推出 more diverse Barbies 提供了 rationale——即需要 address 这个 long-standing problem。对 main thesis 的作用是建立 context,说明为什么 changes are necessary,也为 sales decline 和 criticism 埋下 foreshadowing。

  • 职业多样但外形单一的讽刺

    P1
    Although over the years Barbie has had more than 180 different careers … her body shape hasn't changed much.

    让步类 Although although though even though despite in spite of while

    这个 concession structure 通过 although 引导的让步,表面上 acknowledge Barbie 在 career representation 上的 diversity,但随即用 hasn't changed much 来 highlight 真正的 problem——physical appearance 的 uniformity。这个 implication 非常 critical:它暗示 Mattel 过去的 diversity efforts 是 tokenistic 或者 superficial 的,只改变了 accessories 和 roles,却回避了 most controversial aspect(body image)。这为文章主旨服务,因为它 establishes 为什么现在推出 different body shapes 是 significant——这才是 addressing the core issue,而不是之前那些 cosmetic changes。同时也 implies 公司之前可能是在 avoiding 这个 sensitive topic。

  • 新变化仍然有限且谨慎

    P3
    some people say they don't go far enough … the new body shapes could be even more different

    模糊限制语 some slightly somewhat a bit relatively fairly rather

    这个 hedging pattern 出现在两处:第3段 的 three slightly different 和 第5段 的 some people … don't go far enough。通过 slightly 和 some,作者 subtly conveys 这些 new Barbies 虽然是 step forward,但 change 是 incremental 和 cautious 的,远未达到 radical transformation。Implication 是 Mattel 可能还在 playing it safe,没有 fully commit to真正的 body diversity。这对 main thesis 的作用是 present a balanced view——承认 progress 的同时也 acknowledge limitations,这让 reporting 显得 objective,同时也 hints at 为什么 sales decline 可能 persists——因为 changes 可能 still not enough to satisfy consumers who want genuine representation。

  • 多样性变化或为挽救销量

    P6
    Although many people say the new Barbies are a step in the right direction … Sales of Barbie dolls have been falling 'every year since 2012'

    让步类 Although although while even though despite the fact that in spite of whereas

    这个 implication 通过 juxtaposing 第5段 的 positive reception 和 第6段 的 sales decline 来暗示 Mattel 推出 diverse Barbies 的 true motivation 可能不只是 social responsibility,而是 driven by commercial pressure。虽然 第4段 引用公司 statement 说是为了让 girls spark imagination,但紧接着提到 sales have been falling every year since 2012 这个 fact 就 casts doubt on 这个 official narrative。这个 implicit message 是:diversity initiative 可能是 desperate attempt to reverse declining sales,而非 genuine commitment to representation。对 main thesis 的价值在于它 reveals complexity——change 是 happening,但 underlying motives 可能是 mixed,这让 readers 形成 more nuanced understanding of corporate behavior。

AUTHOR ATTITUDE · 作者态度

作者态度:客观中立

结论先行:本文作者态度为客观中立( Cautiously optimistic with balanced reporting)。下面是按步骤还原的判断过程与文中的态度信号词。

  1. 开篇用词中性 P1

    在 news reporting 中,opening tone 往往 reveal 作者的 basic stance。如果开头就用 judgmental words,说明作者有 strong opinion;如果只是 present information,通常意味着作者想保持 objectivity。这里作者用 'particular look'、'virtually unlike' 这些 descriptive phrases,而非 'unrealistic' 或 'problematic' 这类 loaded terms,显示出 neutral reporting 的倾向。

  2. 多方观点并陈 P4 P5

    News reports 如果要保持 objectivity,必须 present various viewpoints。这里作者不仅 report Mattel's official statement(第4段),还 acknowledge both positive reactions('step in the right direction')和 critical voices('don't go far enough'),这种 multi-perspective presentation 是 neutral reporting 的 hallmark。如果作者只 emphasize 一方 opinion,就会 reveal bias。

  3. 连接词保持中性 P2 P3 P5

    Transition words 能 reveal 作者的 underlying attitude。像 'However' 和 'Although' 这样的 contrasting connectors 在 neutral reporting 中用来 present different angles,而 'Obviously'、'Surprisingly' 这类词则 inject personal interpretation。这篇文章的 transitions 主要是 chronological('Last year', 'Now')和 additive('also'),保持了 factual sequencing 而非 argumentative flow。

  4. 结尾信息性收尾 P6 P7

    News articles 的 conclusion 往往 reveal 作者的 true intention。Opinionated pieces 通常会在结尾 circle back to their main argument,用 strong closing statement 来 leave lasting impression。而这篇文章的 ending 只是 provide practical details('$9.99', 'starting this week'),没有 editorial comment,说明作者的 goal 是 inform 而非 persuade。

  5. 这种 comprehensive neutrality 在 modern news reporting 中代表了 gold standard。作者 successfully presents a potentially controversial topic(body diversity in toys)without 让 personal bias leak through。通过 systematic application 前面的 four methods(opening tone, perspective balance, transition analysis, ending function),我们能 conclusively determine 这是一篇 objective news report,作者的 attitude 是 'cautiously optimistic with balanced reporting'——既 acknowledge positive changes 又 present criticisms,保持 journalistic distance。

文中的态度信号词

  • virtually unlike P1

    这个 phrase 用 factual comparison 来 describe Barbie 和 real humans 的 difference,而不是用 'unrealistically thin' 或 'harmfully distorted' 这类 loaded language。'Virtually' 这个 qualifier 保持了 descriptive neutrality,让 readers 自己 judge 这个 difference 的 significance。

    同类词 hardly resembles barely matches scarcely similar to nearly impossible to find

  • added P2

    这个 neutral verb 只是 report Mattel's action,没有用 'finally added'(暗示 long overdue)或 'proudly added'(表示 approval)。Simple past tense 'added' 保持了 factual reporting tone,让 action speak for itself。

    同类词 introduced included incorporated launched

  • step in the right direction P5

    注意作者这里用了 'many people say',把这个 positive phrase 归属给 external sources 而非自己。通过 attribution(归因),作者 maintain objectivity——是 reporting others' opinions,不是 expressing own judgment。这种 quoting technique 让作者能 present positive views 而不 endorse them personally。

    同类词 positive move welcome change progress improvement

  • don't go far enough P5

    作者同样用 'some people say' 来 attribute 这个 negative assessment。关键是作者在 same paragraph 中 present both positive('step in the right direction')和 negative('don't go far enough')views,而且用 similar attribution structure,体现了 balanced reporting。没有 favor either side,只是 showing the debate exists。

    同类词 fall short insufficient limited impact could be more

  • according to P6

    这个 attribution phrase 把 sales decline information 归到 'CBC News',说明作者在 cite external source 而非 making unsupported claim。用 'according to' 是 professional journalism 的标志,显示作者 verify information 和 give credit to sources,保持 reporting credibility。

    同类词 as reported by sources indicate data shows research suggests

GENRE · 速判体裁

30 秒判定这是一篇新闻报道

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六级 真题文章。

如何快速判断这是一篇新闻报道?

  1. 时间标记配动作动词 P1 P2

    新闻报道的 lead paragraph 通常会 present factual information about something that happened,比如这里 Mattel added new Barbies;而 argumentative essays 会在开头 state a claim 或 thesis,说明文则会 define or explain a concept。这篇文章开头虽然描述 Barbie's appearance,但紧接着就引出 recent changes,是典型的 news angle。

  2. 外部信源引用 P2 P4 P6

    这篇文章明确提到 'Mattel, the company that makes Barbie' 和 'a statement on its website',还引用了 'CBC News' 的 data。新闻报道必须 attribute information to sources 来 establish credibility;议论文主要 present author's reasoning,说明文则 explain from an omniscient perspective 而不需要 cite external sources。

  3. 多元观点并置 P5

    第5段 明确呈现了 two different reactions:'many people say... a step in the right direction' vs 'some people say they don't go far enough'。新闻报道追求 balanced coverage,会 present different angles;议论文会 primarily defend one viewpoint(虽然可能 acknowledge counterarguments),说明文则 focus on explanation 而非 presenting debates。

  4. 具体数据密度 P1 P2 P6 P7

    文章提供了 very specific data:'180 different careers', 'seven skin tones', '22 eye colours', '24 hair styles', 'every year since 2012', '$9.99'。新闻报道 pack in concrete facts and figures;议论文可能 use some statistics 来 support arguments 但更注重 logical reasoning;说明文会 include details 但通常是 to explain mechanisms 而非 report specific developments。

  5. 当这四个 signals 同时出现 - event-focused narrative, attributed sources, balanced perspectives, concrete specifics - 就可以 confidently identify 这是 news reporting。议论文会 lack balance 且 emphasize author's stance;说明文会 lack timeliness 且 focus on general explanation。这篇文章的 structure 明确遵循 inverted pyramid:most newsworthy info first (new Barbies), followed by context (company statement), reactions (public opinions), and additional details (pricing, availability)。

哪些词暴露了新闻报道体裁?

  • Last year P2 即时性时间词 Now this week starting this week
  • Mattel P2 新闻来源与引用词 the company according to CBC News
  • added P2 核心事实概括词 gave are introducing will continue to be sold will be sold have been falling
  • have been falling P6 核心事实概括词 aren't in stores yet will be sold online for $9.99
  • Now P3 即时性时间词 Last year this week starting this week
  • according to CBC News P6 新闻来源与引用词 the company says many people say some people say
SENTENCE INSIGHTS · 句子精讲

4 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 2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 的常见问题

2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 文章的主旨是什么?
美泰公司推出了具有更多样化体型、肤色和特征的新芭比娃娃,以更好地反映真实人群并提振下滑的销量,但批评者认为这些改变在摆脱原有瘦高设计方面还不够彻底。(英文表述:Mattel is introducing new Barbie dolls with more diverse body shapes, skin tones, and features to better reflect real people and boost declining sales, though critics argue the changes don't go far enough in moving away from the original thin, tall design.)
2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 文章是什么体裁?难度如何?
体裁为新闻报道,作者立场是客观中立(Cautiously optimistic with balanced reporting)。CEFR 难度 B1,全文 250 词、7 段;在英语六级全部 593 篇真题文章中,B1 级共 17 篇(占 3%)。
2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 文章的篇章结构是怎样的?
全文 7 段按新闻报道骨架分为 7 个意群:第1段——Barbie形象的固有特征与职业多样性的对比;第2段——Mattel的初步改革措施;第3段——本次新闻的核心内容;第4段——公司官方解释与动机;第5段——外部评价与批评声音;第6段——销售数据背景;第7段——产品发售具体信息。
2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 文章的作者态度是什么?
作者态度是客观中立(Cautiously optimistic with balanced reporting)。判断路径:开篇用词中性 → 多方观点并陈 → 连接词保持中性 → 结尾信息性收尾 → 系统性中立报道;文中的态度信号词包括 virtually unlike(第1段)、added(第2段)、step in the right direction(第5段)、don't go far enough(第5段)、according to(第6段)。
2017年12月英语六级真题第1套 Part II Section B (1) 文章中有哪些值得积累的生词?
按文中出现顺序共 3 个:texture(质地、纹理(指头发的物理特性如粗细、卷直等))、spark(激发、引发、触发)、ambassador(大使、使节(代表国家进行外交活动的高级官员)),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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