21世纪英语报412期1.docVIP

Chasing a dream WHAT makes a star? For Ben Xi, it was passion (激情) and hard work. Ben, 18, is both a singer and songwriter. She started her music career (生涯) three years ago. She was a middle school student and loved to sing. Her friends sang for fun, but Ben was very serious (严肃的) about her interest. She used her computer to record (录制) songs and then put them online. Soon, music companies called up and said they could make her a star. Ben was nervous (紧张的) but she wanted to give it a try. Her first hit is called Underage (《未成年》). It is about the lives of middle school students. “We hate homework, but love new and interesting things,” she said. A singer’s life is busy. Ben has no time for watching TV or shopping with friends. But she wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s great to be able to make a career out of your passion,” she said. 21ST About Ben Name: Ben Xi (Real name: Ma Xiaochen) Birthday: June 30, 1994 Birthplace: Kuitun, Xinjiang Height: 163cm Weight: 60kg Mini washing machine 世界最小的洗衣机。 THIS is the world’s smallest washing machine. It is 25cm long and 38cm tall. It’s about as small as your schoolbag. A company (公司) in China made it in 2011. Balls help dogs smile 跟着爱犬开怀大笑。 DOGS can smile, too! This toy ball has a picture of a big smile. There’s a hole in the ball. You can put your dog’s food into it. When your dog picks up the ball and runs to you, you’ll laugh a lot. 21ST Ways to beat hunger 世界各地的零食让你大饱口福。 DO you enjoy eating snacks? What’s your favorite? Early this month, an online list of favorite snacks in China became popular. The list says that peanuts (花生), walnuts (核桃) and chocolate are good for our health. It also says that jelly (果冻), potato chips and lollipop (棒棒糖) are bad for us. However, kids tend to love all snacks, both good and bad. Snacks give them energy and make them happy. What are some famous snacks around the world? Let’s have a look! US Potato chips and French fries are very popular here. They are cheap and tasty. But they are high