(2025届辽宁省丹东市高三下学期总复习质量测试(二)英语试题)Isabel Crook, a Canadian educator and anthropologist (人类学家), spent over 90 years in China, making significant contributions to both English education and cultural understanding. Born in Chengdu in 1915 to Canadian churchman parents, Crook returned to China after completing her master’s degree in anthropology at the University of Toronto. Her life was deeply connected with China’s history and development.
Crook is best known for her pioneering work in English language education in China. In 1948, she accepted an invitation from the Chinese Communist Party to teach at the Central Foreign Affairs School, which later became Beijing Foreign Studies University. She spent over six decades there, contributing to forming China’s first university English curriculum and training generations of English teachers. Her efforts helped lay the foundation for modern English education in China, earning her the title of “Lifetime Honorary Professor” from the university.
Beyond education, Crook was also a devoted anthropologist. She conducted extensive field research in rural China, including in Xinglongchang in Sichuan and Shilidian in Hebei. Her books, such as Revolution in a Chinese Village, Ten Mile Inn and Xinglongchang, Field Notes of a Village Called Prosperity, offer detailed and intimate portraits of Chinese rural life during the revolutionary period. These works have provided valuable insights into China’s social transformation and have been influential in shaping Western understanding of China.
Crook’s commitment to China extended beyond her professional life. She and her husband, David Crook, supported various social projects, including setting up clinics, schools, and scholarships for poor students. Even after retiring at the age of 66, she continued to contribute by returning to rural areas to support education and development initiatives.
In recognition of her contributions, Isabel Crook received numerous honors, including the “Friendship Medal” from the Chinese government in 2019. Her life and work show the profound impact that a foreigner can have through devotion and service. Isabel Crook passed away in August 2023 at the age of 108, leaving behind a legacy of cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
189.What is Crook best known for in China?
A.Writing books on China’s rural life.
B.Founding rural clinics and schools.
C.Paving the way for English education.
D.Helping foreigners understand China.
190.What is the main focus of Crook’s anthropological works?
A.Criticizing Western views on China.
B.Rural life during China’s revolutions.
C.English education initiatives in China.
D.Promoting prosperity in Chinese villages.
191.Which word can best describe Crook?
A.Ambitious. B.Determined. C.Adventurous. D.Devoted.
192.What can be a suitable title for the text?
A.Isabel Crook: A lifelong contributor to China
B.Isabel Crook: A Pioneer of China’s education
C.Isabel Crook: An expert in Sino-Canadian culture
D.Isabel Crook: An innovator shaping China’s future
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