了解美国系列阅读

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了解美国系列阅读(一)
Food 美式食物

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　　\"You are what you eat.\" Nutrition experts often use this saying to promote better eating habits. What we put in our mouths does become a part of us. But we can look at this statement another way. What we eat reflects who we are--as people and as a culture. Do you want to understand another culture? Then you ought to find out about its food. Learning about American food can give us a real taste of American culture.

　　\"你吃什么就成为什么样子\"营养专家经常使用这句话来倡导更好的饮食习惯，入嘴的东西确实成为我们的一部分．但我们也可以从另一个角度来看这句话，我们所吃的反映出我们自己－－不论就人或文化而言．你想了解另一种文化吗？那么你应该去认识他们的食物．认识美国食物可以让我们得知美国文化的精髓。


　　What is \"American food\"? At first you might think the answer is easy as pie. To many people, American food means hamburgers, hot dogs, fried chicken and pizza. If you have a \"sweet tooth,\" you might even think of apple pie or chocolate chip cookies. It's true that Americans do eat those things. But are those the only kind of vittles you can find in America?

　　何谓「美式食物」？乍听之下你可能认为答案容易得很。对许多人而言，美式食物就是汉堡、热狗、炸鸡和披萨。如果你是好吃甜食的人，你可能会想到苹果派或巧克力片饼干。美国人确实吃这些东西，但这些就是你在美国唯一找得到的食物吗？


　　Except for Thanksgiving turkey, it's hard to find a typically \"American\" food. The United States is a land of immigrants. So Americans eat food from many different countries. When people move to America, they bring their cooking styles with them. That's why you can find almost every kind of ethnic food in America. In some cases, Americans have adopted foods from other countries as favorites. Americans love Italian pizza, Mexican tacos and Chinese egg rolls. But the American version doesn't taste quite like the original!

　　除了感恩节火鸡以外，挺难找到典型的美国食物。美国是个移民之地，所以美国人吃的食物来自许多不同的国家，当人们移居美国，他们也将自己的烹调带了进来。那也就是为什么在美国你几乎可以看到所有不同民族的食物。在某些情况中，美国人把外国的食物视为最爱。美国人喜爱意大利的披萨，墨西哥的玉米饼和中国的春卷，但是这些东西的美国版味道却不很道地！


　　As with any large country, the U.S.A has several distinct regions. Each region boasts its own special style of food. Visit the South and enjoy country-style cooking. Journey through Louisiana for some spicy Cajun cuisine. Take a trip to New England and sample savory seafood dishes. Travel through the Midwest, \"the breadbasket of the nation,\" for delicious baked goods. Cruise over to the Southwest and try some tasty Tex-Mex treats. Finish your food tour in the Pacific Northwest with some gourmet coffee.

　　和许多大国一样，美国有数个截然不同的地区，每个地区都以自己特有的食物夸口。走访美国南部享受乡村式的烹调；到路易斯安纳州品尝辛辣的凯郡式料理；走一趟新英格兰试尝它美味的海鲜；再到中西部「美国的面包之乡」品尝可口的烘培食品；乘船游览至西南部尝试一些好吃的墨式德州小吃，最后到太平洋西北岸，啜饮美食家的咖啡，作为美食之旅的句点。


　　Americans living at a fast pace often just \"grab a quick bite.\" Fast food restaurants offer people on the run everything from fried chicken to fried rice. Microwave dinners and instant foods make cooking at home a snap. Of course, one of the most common quick American meals is a sandwich. If it can fit between two slices of bread, Americans probably make a sandwich out of it. Peanut butter and jelly is an all-time American favorite.

　　生活在快速步调之下的美国人通常只能「很快地吃几口」。快餐店提供赶时间的人各种食物，从炸鸡到炒饭，应有尽有。微波炉晚餐和实时餐点使得在家烧饭省事又快速。当然，最平常的美式速餐之一就是三明治。任何能夹在两片土司中间的东西，美国人就可以把它作成一份三明治，花生酱和果酱更是一直都深受美国人的喜爱。


　　Americans on the go also tend to eat a lot of \"junk food.\" Potato chips, candy bars, soft drinks and other goodies are popular treats. Many people eat too many of these unhealthy snacks. But others opt for more healthy eating habits. Some even go \"all natural.\" They refuse to eat any food prepared with chemicals or additives.

　　忙碌的美国人也趋向于吃一大堆「垃圾食物」。洋芋片、糖果、汽水和其它好吃的东西都颇受欢迎。许多人吃了太多这类不健康的零嘴，但是其它人则选择较健康的饮食习惯，有些人甚至选择「全天然」的食物，他们拒绝吃任何有化学制品或添加物的食物。


　　American culture is a good illustration of the saying \"you are what you eat.\" Americans represent a wide range of backgrounds and ways of thinking. The variety of foods enjoyed in the U.S. reflects the diversity of personal tastes. The food may be international or regional. Sometimes it's fast, and sometimes it's not so fast. It might be junk food, or maybe it's natural food. In any case, the style is all-American.

　　美国文化是「你吃什么就成为什么样子」这句话的好写照。美国人代表了范围广泛的背景和想法。在美国可享受到的各式食物正反映出个人品味的多样化。这食物可能是国际性也可能是地区性的；有时是快餐，有时也不见得；它可能是垃圾食物，也可能是天然食品。然而无论如何，它们都是美式的。

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了解美国系列阅读


了解美国系列阅读(二)
Home 美国人的家

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　　Home. Few words in the English language have such a special meaning. Home is a place where you can relax, kick back and just be yourself. Just about everyone has a strong opinion of what makes a house a home. And for most people in America, home should be, above all, comfortable.

　　家，在英文中没有几个字有这样特别的意义。家是一个你可以放松、只要做你自己的地方。大概每个人对于如何把一间屋子变成一个家都非常有主见。对大多数的美国人来说，家最重要的应该是舒适。


　　Americans like their homes to reflect their personal tastes. Many do-it-yourselfers enjoy fixing up their house and making it more "livable." They often try to create a cozy atmosphere so that when they're at home, they'll really feel "at home." Sofas and lounge chairs may be heavily padded and arranged in groupings conducive to relaxed conversation. The bathroom even receives special attention. Carpeted floors, scented soaps, colorful wallpaper and decorative curtains adorn the "comfort room" in many homes. And on average, Americans have more bathrooms than any other people in the world.

　　美国人喜欢让家反映出他们个人的品味。许多喜欢自己动手做的人沉醉于修补他们的房子并让它更「适于居住」。他们常试着营造一个温暖而舒适的气氛，这样当他们待在家时，会真的感觉到「毫无拘束」。沙发及安乐椅可能会被铺上厚厚的垫子，并运用不同空间组合的摆设，让坐的人可以轻松的谈话。甚至连浴室也颇费心思：铺有地毯的地板、香气四溢的肥皂、彩色的壁纸及装饰窗帘，如此就打扮出了许多家庭的「舒服之地」。平均来说，美国人拥有的浴室比世界上其它的人都多。


　　Lisa Marie Odegard, an interior designer in Bozeman, Montana, comments that "a home is a haven. People want an open, easy feeling to make their homes comfortable." For that reason, many new homes now have big, open kitchens and vaulted ceilings.

　　蒙大拿州柏斯曼的一位室内设计师丽莎?区迪嘉谈到：「家是一个避难所。人们想要一个开放、轻松的感觉来让他们的家变得很舒适。」因为这个原因，现在许多新房子都有大而开放的厨房以及拱形的屋顶。


　　Americans try to make the most of their space, too. The majority of homes have built-in closets and shelves, and people spare no pains to add dressers, filing cabinets and closet organizers to maximize their storage space. Although keeping the house neat is often a constant battle, Americans feel it's a battle worth fighting.

　　美国人也试着将空间做最佳的利用。大多数的家庭都有壁橱以及架子，人们也不辞辛劳的添加橱柜、文件柜以及壁柜分隔架来加大储藏空间。虽然让房子维持整洁像是一场永无止尽的长期战役，美国人觉得这是一个值得打下去的战役。


　　People in America keep an eye on the latest trends in interior design. In the 80s, the "country" look dominated the home decorating scene. Rustic furniture and shelves full of old-fashioned knick-knacks created a homey atmosphere reminiscent of rural America several generations back. The 90s have brought in another longing for the past: the retro 50s and 60s look--plain and simple furniture with square backs and arms and block-style legs.

　　美国人也会注意室内设计的最新时尚。八○年代，「乡村」风貌主导了家庭装潢；摆满旧式风格的小摆设的质朴家俱及架子，创造出一种会令人想起几世代以前以农业为主的美国之家庭气氛。九○年代又带入另一个怀旧情愫：回溯到五○及六○年代风貌--有四方形靠背、把手以及有方正桌脚的朴素、简单的家俱。


　　Some parts of the country have their own regional preferences. In the western United States, homeowners favor the Navajo Indian style of the Southwest or the cowboy look. In contrast, Easterners prefer French Country or more "fussy" styles.

　　国内某些地方的人们有他们自己地区性的偏好。在美国西部，屋主们喜欢西南部印地安拿佛和族或是牛仔式的风格。相对的，东部人喜欢法国乡村或是更漂亮的形式。


　　With all this attention to their homes, you would think Americans place a high premium on housekeeping. In fact, however, keeping house doesn't receive as much attention as it used to. Why? The fast-paced lifestyles of the 90s allow little spare time for dusting, vacuuming and scrubbing the tub. Ironically, however, even though more and more women work outside the home, women still do twice as much house work as men. Modern conve-niences like the washing machine, the vacuum cleaner, and the dishwasher have taken some of the drudgery out of household chores. But in general, Americans these days take their cue from books like How to Avoid Housework.

　　花了这么多心思在他们的家，你大概会认为美国人非常重视家庭的打理与清洁，但是事实上，整理家务已不像以前一样受重视。为什么？九○年代步调快速的生活方式几乎没有留什么时间撢灰尘、吸尘以及刷洗浴缸。然而，讽刺的是，即使越来越多的妇女在外工作，她们还是比男人多做两倍的家务。虽然像是洗衣机、吸尘器和洗碗机等现代家电已代为处理家事中一些乏味、辛苦的工作。但一般而言，美国人今天已会向「如何避免家务」这类的书来求救。


　　As a result, you might think American homes of the 90s are less than spotless. Witness the fact that sales of household cleaning products have declined in recent years. Besides that, Americans seem to be less persnickety about their housecleaning--especially in areas that nobody sees. Vacuum under the sofa? Dust the baseboards? Are you kidding? Ironically, though, American women seem quite satisfied with their housekeeping, according to a national survey conducted in 1995-96. Besides that, people are designing their homes with low-maintenance features--tile in bathrooms and kitchens as well as marble on countertops--to cut down on the need for frequent cleaning. Even so, more and more people are hiring outside help to clean their houses. A Roper poll found that one in six Americans hired cleaning help last year, up from one in 10 in 1986. One professional housecleaning service, Merry Maids, has grown to over 800 franchises in recent years.

　　因此，你可能会认为九○年代的美国家庭大概不是一尘不染。由家用清洁产品的销售量在近几年下降便可见一般。此外，美国人似乎对于家庭的清洁比较不那么吹毛求疵了--特别是对那些没有人看到的地方。吸沙发下的灰尘？撢踢脚板？你开玩笑？但可笑的是，根据一九九五／六年做的一项全国性调查，美国妇女似乎对他们的家务整理挺满意。除此之外，人们以较不需要时时清洁的材料来设计他们的家--在浴室及厨房贴磁砖以及做大理石的台面--减少打扫的次数。即使如此，越来越多的人雇用外人协助清理屋子。一项洛普民意调查发现，去年有六分之一的美国雇用清洁服务，较一九八六年的十分之一比率上升许多。一个专业性的家务清理服务「快乐女佣公司」在最近几年已成长到有八百多家的连锁店。


　　In a pre-Revolutionary War speech in 1761, James Otis made the famous remark that "a man's home is his castle." Americans like their castle to be as comfortable as possible. They would like to have a home they can be proud of, a place they can call their own. Not everyone's home looks like a castle, but "be it ever so humble, there's no place like home."

　　在一七六一年独立战争前的一次演说中，詹姆士。欧提斯留下了一句名言--「男人的家是他的城堡」。美国人喜欢他们的城堡能够尽可能的舒适，他们都想要有一个引以为荣的家，一个可以属于他们自己的地方。并不是每个人的家都看起来像是一座城堡，但是「即使是非常简陋，但没有一个地方可以比得上家。」

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了解美国系列阅读 (三)


Driving 美国人的开车习惯

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　　Meet Mitsuaki. He recently arrived in the United States to enter university. He wants to do well in his studies and adjust to the new culture. But Mitsuaki has a problem. It's not his roommates. It's not his school fees. It's not even his English ability. Mitsuaki's problem is that he doesn't have a car. And in America, that really makes him a foreigner. Mitsuaki has already discovered a basic fact of American culture: Driving is a way of life.
　　介绍你认识三和木，他最近刚到美国上大学。他的目标是想把书读好并且让自己能够适应这个新的文化。但三和木却遇到了一个问题。问题不是室友，不是学费，甚至不是他的英文能力，三和木的问题是没有车。在美国，没有车真的会让他成了一个十足的外国人。三和木已经发现了美国文化中一个很基本的事实：开车是一种生活方式。


　　It's not that there's no public transportation in America. Many cities have taxis, buses and subways to help commuters get to and from work. Some large universities even have buses to take students to classes across campus. But most people find it much more convenient to drive, even if they do have to deal with traffic. Nowadays busy families often have more than one vehicle. Many people view their car as a status symbol. But no matter their social status, people without wheels feel tied down.

　　美国不是没有大众运输工具，很多都市都有出租车、公车和地下铁帮助通车族上下班。有些规模大的大学甚至有公车在校园里载送学生到各个教室上课。不过大部份的人还是觉得开车更方便，即使他们得面对交通拥挤的问题。现今忙碌的家庭通常拥有一辆以上的车。很多人把车子视为地位的象征，但是不管他们的社会地位如何，没有车的人往往觉得很受束缚。.


　　When Mitsuaki first arrived, he was amazed at how young many American drivers there were. Young people in America often get their driver's license around age 16 by passing a written test and a driving test. In many cases, before they can get their license, they have to take a driver education course. This course gives students hands-on practice with driving. It also helps to reduce the high cost of insurance. For teenagers, being able to drive--and in some cases, have their own car--is a big deal. It gives them a sense of power and freedom. Many young Americans consider a driver's license a right, not a privilege. It's rare to find an American teenager without one.

　　当三和木刚抵达美国时，他很惊讶美国许多开车的人年纪实在很轻。美国的年轻人通常在16岁左右就会通过笔试和路考，取得驾照。很多时候在他们取得驾照之前，他们必须上一个驾驶人教育课程，这个课程提供给学生们实际的驾驶练习，它也有助于降低高额的保险费。对青少年来说，能够开车，甚至拥有一辆自己的车是一件了不起的事，因为它带给他们一种权力与自由的感觉。很多美国的年轻人把驾照视为一种权利，而不是一项特权。在美国要找到一个没有驾照的青少年是很不容易的。


　　Mitsuaki finally decides that he needs a car. His host family helps him find a good used car to buy. But before he gets his license and starts driving, he has to understand that the American style of driving is defensive, not offensive. He also needs to learn some of the basic rules of the road that good drivers follow.

10 Commandments of Good Driving in America:
1. Yield to vehicles who have the right of way.
2. Don't cut in front of other vehicles.
3. Drive within the speed limit.
4. Obey all road signs and police officers.
5. Pull over to the side of the road when you hear a siren.
6. Stop completely at red lights and stop signs.
7. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
8. Park only in a designated parking space.
9. Use your turn signals when turning or changing lanes.
10. Don't drink and drive.

　　三和木最后终于决定他需要一辆车，他的寄宿家庭帮助他找到了一辆好的二手车。但是在他拿到驾照并且开始开车之前，他必须先了解，美国人的开车方式是属于防守型，而不是进攻型。他也需要学习一些好的驾驶人应该遵守的基本道路规则。

在美国优良驾驶的十大诫命：
1. 礼让有先行权的车子。
2. 不超车。
3. 行车不超速。
4. 遵守所有的路标和交通警察的指挥。
5. 听到警笛声时，立即靠边停车。
6. 遇到红灯和停止标志时要完全停下来。
7. 在行人穿越道上要礼让行人。
8. 只能在指定的停车地区内停车。
9. 转弯或换车道时要打方向灯。
10. 不要酒后驾车。


　　As a car owner, Mitsuaki has the responsibility of maintaining his car. He knows that regular maintenance checkups can help to prevent many serious problems. But no matter how careful the maintenance, all vehicles need to be repaired sometimes. Many Americans take their cars to a garage for maintenance and repairs. Others like to work on their own vehicles. Not Mitsuaki. He decides that being a student is enough work for him.

　　身为一个车主，三和木必须负责维修他的车子，他知道定期作保养检查可以预防许多严重的问题发生。不过，不管多么小心地保养，所有的车子有时候都必须修理。很多美国人把他们的车子送到车厂保养和修理；有些人则喜欢自己动手修车。但三和木可不这么做。他觉得当一个学生已经够他忙的了。


　　Driving is to Americans what flying is to birds. It's almost part of their nature. For many Americans, being behind the wheel is like their natural habitat. But if they don't drive carefully, they can become an endangered species.

　　开车对美国人的必要性，就像鸟儿需要飞翔一样，几乎就是他们天性的一部份。对许多美国人而言，「坐在方向盘后面」就像是他们自然栖息之处。不过，如果他们不小心开车的话，他们可就会变成濒临危险的动物了。

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了解美国系列阅读 (四)


Driving 美国人的开车习惯

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　　Meet Mitsuaki. He recently arrived in the United States to enter university. He wants to do well in his studies and adjust to the new culture. But Mitsuaki has a problem. It's not his roommates. It's not his school fees. It's not even his English ability. Mitsuaki's problem is that he doesn't have a car. And in America, that really makes him a foreigner. Mitsuaki has already discovered a basic fact of American culture: Driving is a way of life.
　　介绍你认识三和木，他最近刚到美国上大学。他的目标是想把书读好并且让自己能够适应这个新的文化。但三和木却遇到了一个问题。问题不是室友，不是学费，甚至不是他的英文能力，三和木的问题是没有车。在美国，没有车真的会让他成了一个十足的外国人。三和木已经发现了美国文化中一个很基本的事实：开车是一种生活方式。


　　It's not that there's no public transportation in America. Many cities have taxis, buses and subways to help commuters get to and from work. Some large universities even have buses to take students to classes across campus. But most people find it much more convenient to drive, even if they do have to deal with traffic. Nowadays busy families often have more than one vehicle. Many people view their car as a status symbol. But no matter their social status, people without wheels feel tied down.

　　美国不是没有大众运输工具，很多都市都有出租车、公车和地下铁帮助通车族上下班。有些规模大的大学甚至有公车在校园里载送学生到各个教室上课。不过大部份的人还是觉得开车更方便，即使他们得面对交通拥挤的问题。现今忙碌的家庭通常拥有一辆以上的车。很多人把车子视为地位的象征，但是不管他们的社会地位如何，没有车的人往往觉得很受束缚。.


　　When Mitsuaki first arrived, he was amazed at how young many American drivers there were. Young people in America often get their driver's license around age 16 by passing a written test and a driving test. In many cases, before they can get their license, they have to take a driver education course. This course gives students hands-on practice with driving. It also helps to reduce the high cost of insurance. For teenagers, being able to drive--and in some cases, have their own car--is a big deal. It gives them a sense of power and freedom. Many young Americans consider a driver's license a right, not a privilege. It's rare to find an American teenager without one.

　　当三和木刚抵达美国时，他很惊讶美国许多开车的人年纪实在很轻。美国的年轻人通常在16岁左右就会通过笔试和路考，取得驾照。很多时候在他们取得驾照之前，他们必须上一个驾驶人教育课程，这个课程提供给学生们实际的驾驶练习，它也有助于降低高额的保险费。对青少年来说，能够开车，甚至拥有一辆自己的车是一件了不起的事，因为它带给他们一种权力与自由的感觉。很多美国的年轻人把驾照视为一种权利，而不是一项特权。在美国要找到一个没有驾照的青少年是很不容易的。


　　Mitsuaki finally decides that he needs a car. His host family helps him find a good used car to buy. But before he gets his license and starts driving, he has to understand that the American style of driving is defensive, not offensive. He also needs to learn some of the basic rules of the road that good drivers follow.

10 Commandments of Good Driving in America:
1. Yield to vehicles who have the right of way.
2. Don't cut in front of other vehicles.
3. Drive within the speed limit.
4. Obey all road signs and police officers.
5. Pull over to the side of the road when you hear a siren.
6. Stop completely at red lights and stop signs.
7. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
8. Park only in a designated parking space.
9. Use your turn signals when turning or changing lanes.
10. Don't drink and drive.

　　三和木最后终于决定他需要一辆车，他的寄宿家庭帮助他找到了一辆好的二手车。但是在他拿到驾照并且开始开车之前，他必须先了解，美国人的开车方式是属于防守型，而不是进攻型。他也需要学习一些好的驾驶人应该遵守的基本道路规则。

在美国优良驾驶的十大诫命：
1. 礼让有先行权的车子。
2. 不超车。
3. 行车不超速。
4. 遵守所有的路标和交通警察的指挥。
5. 听到警笛声时，立即靠边停车。
6. 遇到红灯和停止标志时要完全停下来。
7. 在行人穿越道上要礼让行人。
8. 只能在指定的停车地区内停车。
9. 转弯或换车道时要打方向灯。
10. 不要酒后驾车。


　　As a car owner, Mitsuaki has the responsibility of maintaining his car. He knows that regular maintenance checkups can help to prevent many serious problems. But no matter how careful the maintenance, all vehicles need to be repaired sometimes. Many Americans take their cars to a garage for maintenance and repairs. Others like to work on their own vehicles. Not Mitsuaki. He decides that being a student is enough work for him.

　　身为一个车主，三和木必须负责维修他的车子，他知道定期作保养检查可以预防许多严重的问题发生。不过，不管多么小心地保养，所有的车子有时候都必须修理。很多美国人把他们的车子送到车厂保养和修理；有些人则喜欢自己动手修车。但三和木可不这么做。他觉得当一个学生已经够他忙的了。


　　Driving is to Americans what flying is to birds. It's almost part of their nature. For many Americans, being behind the wheel is like their natural habitat. But if they don't drive carefully, they can become an endangered species.

　　开车对美国人的必要性，就像鸟儿需要飞翔一样，几乎就是他们天性的一部份。对许多美国人而言，「坐在方向盘后面」就像是他们自然栖息之处。不过，如果他们不小心开车的话，他们可就会变成濒临危险的动物了。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (五)


Education　美式教育

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　　　On the first day of school, Johnny had a hard time getting out of bed. "Johnny, get up! You're going to be late for school!" warned his mother. "Aw, Mom, do I have to go to school?" Johnny complained. "Yes, son, summer is over, and the new school year is starting. You must go to school. And besides," reasoned Johnny's mother, "you're the teacher!"


　　This old American joke does have a ring of truth to it. American teachers and students alike enjoy their summer vacation. But don't let the humor fool you: Education is a major part of American culture. Schools do more than just fill students' heads with knowledge. They pass on culture, traditions and values.


　　American children start their education in elementary school. Most youngsters enter first grade at around six years of age. Children can prepare for this step by attending preschool and kindergarten from ages three to five. Young learners finish elementary school in fifth or sixth grade. From there, students go on to junior high school until eighth or ninth grade. Americans complete their required education in high school. They graduate and receive a diploma after twelfth grade.


　　Beyond high school, Americans have many chances for further education. In contrast to other countries, the U.S. has no national college entrance exam. Instead, private companies give exams to students. Universities decide which tests students must take. In addition to test scores, university officials also consider applicants' high school grades and other activities. Universities give scholarships and financial aid to help many who cannot afford the high tuition costs. Students with less academic goals may enroll in vocational schools or community colleges.


　　The American style of education, compared to that of other countries, is quite informal. In fact, the casual class atmosphere often amazes international students. American teachers encourage students to think for themselves. Instead of grading students only on test scores, teachers evaluate papers, group projects and class participation, as well. Students often have to think creatively to solve problems-not just memorize facts. Students also learn how to do research by using resource materials to find their own answers. In this way, classrooms illustrate the American emphasis on individual responsibility.


　　Freedom of choice is another American value not absent from school life. In addition to their required courses, high school and college students may choose elective courses. These electives allow students to study subjects that interest them. The menu of choices might include typing, band and home economics, as well as special academic classes. Other activities occupy students' time after school hours. Most schools have sports teams, clubs and publications that give students valuable experience.


　　The American system of education is far from perfect. Teachers in America fight to control cheating and plagiarism. Drugs, violence, sex and peer pressure interfere with students' education. Test scores are declining. In light of these issues, American teachers have an important and challenging job. They must instill cultural and moral values, as well as knowledge, in young American citizens. Wake up, Johnny! You've got work to do!

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (六)


Love of American Style 美式爱情

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　　An old song says that "love makes the world go around." If you watch Americans on Valentine's Day, you can believe it. The whole country breaks out with little red hearts. Love-struck people give cards, flowers and candy to their sweethearts. You might call it an annual celebration of love.
　　有首老歌是这么唱的「爱让世界旋转」。如果你在情人节观察美国人，你就会相信，因为全国突然出现许多小红心，恋爱的人会送卡片、花和糖果给他们的情人，也许我们可以称这是个爱的节日。

　　Americans are romantic all year long, but especially on February 14. Valentine's Day gives people an excuse to ask someone they admire to "be their valentine."
　　美国人全年都是罗曼蒂克的，尤其是在二月十四日。情人节给了人们借口请他们所欣赏的人做他们的情人。

Conversation I 会话一

Stan: Hey, Angela! I've been looking all over for you!
史丹：安琪拉！我到处找妳！

Angela: Well, hi, Stan! Happy Valentine's Day!
安琪拉：嗨！史丹！情人节快乐！

Stan: Thanks! Happy Valentine's Day to you, too! Uh, Angela..
史丹：谢谢！我也祝你情人节快乐！嗯，安琪拉……

Angela: Yes?
安琪拉：什么事？

Stan: Well, I...uh...got you a little something for Valentine's Day. Would you be my valentine?
史丹：我…，嗯，我有一样小东西送给你当情人节的礼物，你愿意做我的情人吗？

Angela: How sweet! The flowers are beautiful! And you know how much I love chocolate! Sure, I'd be honored to.
安琪拉：多美啊！这花好漂亮！而且你知道我有多喜欢巧克力！我觉得很荣幸能够成为你的情人。

Stan: Would you like to go to the school party with me this Saturday?
史丹：这星期六你要和我一起参加学校的舞会吗？

Angela: Yes, I would. I'll look forward to it.
安琪拉：好啊！我会去，并且满心期待地！

　　The American concept of love and romance begins with dating. Young people date in several ways. At first they might have group dates with several boys and girls together. Later, they start going on single dates-just one boy and one girl. Sometimes a boy and a girl will go to a movie. Maybe they will go to a party at a friend's house. Or they might go out to eat.
　　美国人的观念认为爱情和罗曼史是从约会开始的。年轻人约会有几种情况。刚开始，他会有群体式的约会，就是几个男生几个女生一起约会出去。之后，他们才开始单独的约会，就是一男一女。有时他们会去看电影，也可能去朋友家聚餐，或者到外面吃饭。

　　When two couples go out together, we call it double dating. A friend might even arrange a blind date for you with someone you don't know. That doesn't mean you keep your eyes closed the whole evening! You just don't know who your partner will be until the time for the date. If someone asks you for any kind of date, and you don't want to go, you may politely say, "No, thanks."
　　当有两对一起出去时，我们称之为「两对式约会」，甚至朋友也会安排你不认识的人帮你相亲。所谓相亲（blind date）并不是指让你整晚都把眼睛蒙起来，而是一直要等到约会那天你才知道对象是谁。如果有人以任何一种方式约你，但你不想去，你只管礼貌地说：「谢谢你，我不去。」

Conversation II
会话二

Jeff: Hi, Tanya! Boy, it's freezing today, isn't it?
杰夫：嗨！田雅，老天！今天真冷啊！

Tanya: You're not kidding! I'm glad I'm wearing a hat and gloves!
田雅：你说得沒错，我真庆幸戴了帽子和手套！

Jeff: Yeah, you look warm all bundled up like that. Say, I was wondering, would you like to go to the Valentine's banquet with me next week?
杰夫：是啊！你裹得那样看起来很暖和。我在想你下星期要不要和我去参加情人节的宴会？

Tanya: Well, I really don't think I can. I have other plans. Thanks for asking, though.
田雅：我想我真得沒办法去，我有另外的计划，不过还是谢谢你的邀请。

Jeff: That's O.K. Maybe some other time.
杰夫：沒关系，以后还有机会！

Tanya: Yeah. Well, here comes my bus. See you later!
田雅：啊！我的車来了，再见！

　　Americans view dating differently from people in other cultures. American young people see a date as a time just to have fun. They don't always have a romantic interest in mind. Someone may go out with one person this week, and another person the next. After a while, a boy and a girl may decide they want to "go steady." This means they think of each other as "boyfriend and girlfriend." It also means they don't want to date anyone else. Romance is beginning to bloom.
　　美国人看「约会」的角度与其他文化不同。美国的年轻人只是把约会当做享乐的时刻，并不都是有感情牵涉在內，有的人也许这星期和这个人出去，下星期和另一个人。过一阵子之后，一男一女可能决定他们要「稳定下来」，就是他们将彼此视为男女朋友，也就是说他们不再和其他人约会。爱情之花将开始绽放。

　　Romantic love is very much a part of American culture. Movies, TV shows and books in America all picture people falling in love. Americans know that no romance is perfect, but still they try to find the ideal person. Actually, love is a part of every culture, not just American culture. People all over the world search for happiness in a loving relationship.
　　爱情是美国文化的一大部分，美国的电影、电视和书都刻划人们坠入情网的事，美国人知道沒有一个爱情是完美的，但他们仍旧试图寻找理想伴侶。事实上，爱情是每一种文化的一部分而非仅是美国文化的。我们可以看出全世界的人都想在爱情里寻求快乐。

　　Maybe love does make the world go around.
　　也许爱情确实让世界旋转吧！

jsphsz

解美国系列阅读 (七)


Marriage of American Style 美式婚姻

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　　"I do." To Americans those two words carry great meaning. They can even change your life. Especially if you say them at your own wedding. Making wedding vows is like signing a contract. Now Americans don't really think marriage is a business deal. But marriage is serious business.
　　「我愿意」这句话对美国人而言具有重大意义，它甚至可以改变你的生命，特別是当你在自己的婚礼上说出这句话时，在婚礼中所发的誓言就如同签订契约一样，美国人并不是真把婚姻当作商业交易，但是，结婚确实是件严肃的事情。

　　It all begins with engagement. Traditionally, a young man asks the father of his sweetheart for permission to marry her. If the father agrees, the man later proposes to her. Often he tries to surprise her by "popping the question" in a romantic way.
　　结婚是从订婚开始，在传统上，年轻人会请求他的女朋友的父亲允许他娶她，如果女方的父亲答应，之后方可向女方求婚。通常男方会试着以罗曼蒂克的方式「提出这个问题」以带给女方惊喜。

　　Sometimes the couple just decides together that the time is right to get married. The man usually gives his fiancee a diamond ring as a symbol of their engagement. They may be engaged for weeks, months or even years. As the big day approaches, bridal showers and bachelor's parties provide many useful gifts. Today many couples also receive counseling during engagement. This prepares them for the challenges of married life.
　　有时候双方会觉得现在结婚正是时候，于是男方通常会送女方钻戒做为互订终身的象征。他们可能订婚几个星期、几个月，甚至几年，当大喜的日子接近时，贺礼赠送会和单身汉俱乐部都会赠送许多实用的礼物。今天有许多订婚的男女在订婚期间接受咨询服务，这是为了让他们有准备接受婚姻生活的挑战。

　　At last it's time for the wedding. Although most weddings follow long-held traditions, there's still room for American individualism. For example, the usual place for a wedding is in a church. But some people get married outdoors in a scenic spot. A few even have the ceremony while skydiving or riding on horseback! The couple may invite hundreds of people or just a few close friends. They choose their own style of colors, decorations and music during the ceremony. But some things rarely change. The bride usually wears a beautiful, long white wedding dress. She traditionally wears "something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue." The groom wears a formal suit or tuxedo. Several close friends participate in the ceremony as attendants, including the best man and the maid of honor.
　　最后就是婚礼了，虽然大多的婚礼仍沿袭长久以来的传统，但是美国人的个人主义仍有其空间，例如，通常婚礼的地点是在教堂，但是有些人却是到戶外的风景区结婚，有些人甚至是跳伞或骑马结婚！双方可能邀请上百人或者只是一些熟朋友，婚礼的顏色风格，布置和音乐都由他们自己决定，但有些事是不太会变的；新娘通常都穿著美丽的白色结婚礼服，按照传统她必须穿的衣服上包括了：一些旧的，一些新的，一些借来的，及一些蓝色的东西。新郎则穿着正式的西装或燕尾晚礼服，几位熟朋友参加婚礼并协助帮忙，包括了伴郎和伴娘。

　　As the ceremony begins, the groom and his attendants stand with the minister, facing the audience. Music signals the entrance of the bride's attendants, followed by the beautiful bride. Nervously, the young couple repeats their vows. Traditionally, they promise to love each other "for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health." But sometimes the couple has composed their own vows. They give each other a gold ring to symbolize their marriage commitment. Finally the minister announces the big moment: "I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your bride!"
　　当典礼开始时，新郎和伴郎和牧师站在一起，面对观众，音乐一起，表示伴娘入场，后面就跟着美丽的新娘。年轻的男女双方紧张地跟着说出他们的誓言，传统上而言，他们会承诺要彼此相爱，「不论好、坏、贫、富、生病时或健康时」，但是有时候，他们也可能自己编一套自己的誓言，他们互赠金戒指以此表示结婚的承诺，最后牧师宣布这重大的时刻：「我现在宣布你们成为夫妻，你可以亲吻你的新娘！」

　　At the wedding reception, the bride and groom greet their guests. Then they cut the wedding cake and feed each other a bite. Guests mingle while enjoying cake, punch and other treats. Later the bride throws her bouquet of flowers to a group of single girls. Tradition says that the one who catches the bouquet will be the next to marry. During the reception, playful friends "decorate" the couple's car with tissue paper, tin cans and a "Just Married" sign. When the reception is over, the newlyweds run to their "decorated" car and speed off. Many couples take a honeymoon, a one- to two-week vacation trip, to celebrate their new marriage.
　　在结婚宴会上，新娘新郎向宾客问候．然后切结婚蛋糕并互相喂对方一口。宾客们在享受蛋糕、饮料及其他的食物时就混在一起交谈。之后新娘将捧花投向一群单身女孩，传统说接到捧花的女孩会成为下一位新娘。在婚宴上，爱闹的朋友用面纸、铝罐和「新婚」标志「装饰」礼车，宴会结束后，新婚的小俩口就跑向他们「装饰完成」的礼车，迅速地离开，许多夫妻会去渡蜜月，就是一至二星期的假期以庆祝他们的新婚。

　　Almost every culture has rituals to signal a change in one's life. Marriage is one of the most basic life changes for people of all cultures. So it's no surprise to find many traditions about getting married . . . even in America. Yet each couple follows the traditions in a way that is uniquely their own.
　　几乎每一种文化都有仪式来表示一个人生命中的改变。结婚对于所有文化的人而言是一生中最重要的大事之一，所以会有这么多婚礼的习俗就不足为奇了，美国也不例外。然而每对新人都以自己认为独特的方式来跟随传统。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (八)


Pets 美国宠物

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　　Americans love pets. And it's not just puppy love, either. Many pet owners treat their furry friends as part of the family. Sometimes they spice up their pets' lives with entertaining videos and amusing toys. If they have an eye for fashion, pet owners can dress their pets in stylish clothes. For special occasions, they can use canine perfume to make their dogs smell, well, less beastly. You might say Americans treat their pets like they treat their children-sometimes even better.

　　美国人很爱宠物，而且这不只是一种不成熟、短暂的爱。很多宠物的主人把这些毛茸茸的朋友当作家庭的一部分，有时候还为宠物准备娱乐用的录像带和玩具来增添牠们生活的乐趣，如果宠物的主人具有流行的眼光，还会让他们的宠物穿上时髦的衣服，在特殊的场合里，甚至为宠物喷上狗儿专用的香水，让牠们味道好闻一点，减少一些动物身上的味道。你也可以说，美国人待他们的宠物如同待他们的孩子一样--有时甚至更好。


　　In America, there are more households with pets than those with children. At least 43 percent of U.S. homes have pets of some sort. Exotic creatures, such as monkeys, snakes and even wolves, find a home with some Americans. More common pets include tropical fish, mice and birds. But the all-time favorites are cats and dogs, even at the White House. The Clintons' cat, Socks, has replaced the Bushes' dog, Millie, as reigning First Pet. Americans sometimes have strong feelings about whether dogs or cats make better pets. "Dog people" and "cat people" often enjoy friendly rivalries.

　　在美国，有宠物的家庭比有孩子的家庭还多。至少百分之四十三的美国家庭有宠物，有些美国家庭养一些外国品种的动物，例如猴子、蛇、甚至狼；比较常见的宠物有热带鱼、老鼠、和鸟。不过，一直广受欢迎的是猫和狗，连白宫也不例外。柯林顿总统的猫--袜子，已经取代了布什的狗--米利，成为神气的「第一宠物」。美国人有时候很在乎到底最好的宠物是猫还是狗，「爱狗的人」和「爱猫的人」喜欢开玩笑地彼此争辩。


　　Leading a dog's life in America isn't such a bad thing. Many grocery stores sell gourmet pet foods to owners eager to please their pets. In Houston, Texas, dogs can have their dinner delivered to their homes, just like pizza. Well-to-do canines can attend doggy daycare centers while their owners work. Pets can even accompany their owners on vacation. Fancy hotels are beginning to accommodate both man and beast. Furry guests at Four Seasons Hotels can enjoy gourmet meals served on fine china and sleep in soft beds.

　　在美国，狗所过的生活并不坏，很多杂货店都卖有宠物美食，让主人可以讨好他们的宠物。在德州的休斯敦市，狗儿还能享用专程送到家的晚餐，就跟披萨一样。家境富裕的狗儿在主人上班的时候可以去狗儿托育中心。宠物甚至可以和牠们的主人一同去度假，高级饭店已经开始可以同时留宿人和宠物，这些毛茸茸的客人在四季饭店可以享用以精致瓷器盛装的美食，并在柔软的床上睡觉。


　　Beneath the fluffy luxuries, there lies a basic American belief: Pets have a right to be treated well. At least 75 animal welfare organizations exist in America. These provide care and adoption services for homeless and abused animals. Veterinarians can give animals an incredible level of medical careNfor an incredible price. To pay for the high-tech health care, people can buy health insurance for their pets. And when it's time to say good-bye, owners can bury their pets in a respectable pet cemetery.

　　在舒适奢华的享受之下，其实存在着美国人的一种基本信念：宠物有受到妥善对待的权利。美国至少有七十五个动物福利组织，他们为流浪动物及被虐待动物提供照顾与领养的服务。兽医能提供给动物极好的医疗照顾--价格也极昂贵，若为了负担更先进的健康医疗照顾，人们可以为他们的宠物买健康保险。如果和宠物道别的时机到了，主人们可以为宠物买一块体面的墓地。


　　The average American enjoys having pets around, and for good reason. Researchers have discovered that interacting with animals lowers a person's blood pressure. Dogs can offer protection from burglars and unwelcome visitors. Cats can help rid the home of unwanted pests. Little creatures of all shapes and sizes can provide companionship and love. In many cases, having a pet prepares a young couple for the responsibilities of parenthood. Pets even encourage social relationships: They give their owners an appearance of friendliness, and they provide a good topic of conversation.

　　美国人一般都喜欢有宠物为伴，这是有原因的。研究人员发现，与动物为伍能够降低人的血压。狗能防止小偷及不受欢迎的访客。猫能帮忙清除家里讨人厌的害虫和有害的小动物。任何种类及大小的小宠物都能带给人们相伴与爱的感觉。很多时候，拥有一只宠物能帮助年轻夫妻做为人父母责任的准备。宠物甚至有助于人际关系：它们使主人们看起来更友善，并且也带给人们一个交谈的好话题。


　　Pets are as basic to American culture as hot dogs or apple pie. To Americans, pets are not just property, but a part of the family. After all, pets are people, too.

　　宠物是美国文化中很基本的一部分，就如热狗和苹果派一样。对美国人而言，宠物不仅仅是他们所拥有的一样东西而已，它是家庭的一部分。毕竟，宠物也是「人」啊！

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (九)


Health & Fitness 美国人的健康与健美感

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　　Picture this: Two very fat men enter an ice cream shop. They sit down and order two giant sundaes. After enjoying their rich desserts, they go to a health club and have a good workout. They're trying to work off all those calories they ate. Who would be so silly? Some Americans would. When it comes to health and fitness, Americans have mixed emotions. On the one hand, they are concerned about their health. On the other, they have some very unhealthy habits.

　　想象一下这个景象：两个大胖子进入一家冰淇淋店，他们坐下来点了两客大圣代。吃完高热量的甜点后，再去一家健身俱乐部好好地运动一番，想把吃进去的热量消耗掉。谁会这幺傻呢？有些美国人就是这幺傻。谈到健康与健美，美国人有矛盾的情结，他们一方面关心自己的健康，另一方面又有一些很不健康的习惯。


　　Americans know the benefits of having a healthy diet. In school, children learn to eat a variety of healthy foods. People grow up aware of the value of counting calories. They hear about the health dangers of chemicals added to packaged food. They realize they shouldn't eat too many sweets or fats. Many American consumers read labels carefully for nutrition information. That way they can compare products and eat the best foods.

　　美国人知道健康饮食的好处。孩子们在学校里学着吃各种健康食物。人们从小到大也非常注意计算食物的热量。他们听说了现成食品中所添加的化学物质会损害健康；也了解不该吃太多的甜食或富含油脂的食物。很多美国消费者仔细地研读卷标上的营养成份，以便能够比较产品而吃到最好的食物。


　　Keeping fit--or maybe getting in shape--is often high on the list of New Year's resolutions for Americans. In the past two decades, fitness has become a fad. Many Americans have joined health clubs to work out with professional equipment. Sports stores sell athletic shoes and clothing for every possible exercise situation. People can even buy weights and equipment and set up their own exercise center at home!

　　保持健美——或者保持匀称的身材——通常是美国人新年新计划中高居前面的一项。过去20年来，健美已蔚为风尚。很多美国人加入健身俱乐部，使用专业的设备做运动。运动商品店里售有各种运动项目所需的运动鞋和服装。人们甚至买哑铃和训练的设备，在家里设置专属的运动中心！


　　Statistics give health experts good reason to be disappointed. Americans exercise less than they used to. The number of people taking part in fitness activities dropped from 41.7 million in 1991 to only 32 million in 1993. Among high school students, only 37 percent exercise three times per week. However, 70 percent of teenagers watch at least an hour of TV every day, and 38 percent watch over three hours. As a result, the average American gained eight pounds during the 1980's. At least one-third of Americans weigh 20 percent more than their ideal weight.

　　统计资料令健康专家们感到失望，美国人已不再像从前那么常运动了。参与健身活动的人数，从一九九一年的4，170万人到一九九三年已降为3，200万人；在高中生当中，只有37%的学生一星期运动三次，然而，却有70%的青少年每天至少看一个小时的电视，有38%则看超过三个小时。结果在1980年代，美国人的平均体重增加了八磅，至少有三分之一的美国人比理想体重超重20%。


　　Still, by many standards, Americans enjoy good health. Medical care in the United States, while expensive, is among the best in the world. The U.S. Government requires strict food inspections to ensure that food is of the highest quality. Food producers must label products accurately. Many resources, such as magazines, TV programs and even the Internet, allow people to find out how to improve their health. Americans know how to make themselves more healthy. They just need to do it.

　　不过从很多的标准来看，美国人仍然拥有健康。美国的医疗照顾虽然昂贵，但却是全世界最好的。美国政府要求严格的食品检验，以确保最佳的食物品质。食品制造者必须在产品上贴上精确的卷标。很多信息来源如杂志、电视节目、甚至网际网络都提供人们增进健康的方法。美国人知道如何让自己更健康，然而他们只需要实际行动。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十)


Hospitality　美式待客之道

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　　An American friend has invited you to visit his family. You've never been to an American's home before, and you're not sure what to do. Should you take a gift? How should you dress? What time should you arrive? What should you do when you get there? Glad you asked. When you're the guest, you should just make yourself at home. That's what hospitality is all about: making people feel at home when they're not.

　　一位美国朋友邀请你去他家。你以前从未去过美国人的家，你不确定该怎么做。该带一个礼物吗？该怎么穿？该几点到？到了那里该做什么？很高兴你发问。你若是客人，只要使自己感到自在就好了。待客之道就是这样：虽然不是在家里，却使客人有实至如归之感。


　　The question of whether or not to bring a gift often makes guests squirm. Giving your host a gift is not just a social nicety in some cultures-it's expected. But in American culture, a guest is not obligated to bring a present. Of course, some people do bring a small token of appreciation to their host. Appropriate gifts for general occasions might be flowers, candy or-if the family has small children-toys. If you choose not to bring a gift, don't worry. No one will even notice.

　　是否带礼物的问题常使客人不安。在某些文化中，送主人礼物不只是社交礼节——还是必要的。但是在美国文化中，客人并不一定要带礼物。当然，有些人的确会带个表示感谢的小礼物给他们的主人。在一般情況下，带花或是糖果，如果这家人有小孩，玩具应当是恰当的礼物。如果你选择不带礼物，別担心，甚至沒有人会注意到的。


　　American hospitality begins at home-especially when it involves food. Most Americans agree that good home cooking beats restaurant food any day. When invited for a meal, you might ask, "Can I bring anything?" Unless it's a potluck, where everyone brings a dish, the host will probably respond, "No, just yourself." For most informal dinners, you should wear comfortable, casual clothes. Plan to arrive on time, or else call to inform your hosts of the delay. During the dinner conversation, it's customary to compliment the hostess on the wonderful meal. Of course, the biggest compliment is to eat lots of food!

　　美国人的待客之道从家里开始——尤其是和食物有关。大多数美国人都同意，无论如何，好的家常菜胜过餐馆的菜。受邀吃饭时，你或许可以问：「我可以带些什么吗？」除非是每人带一道菜的聚餐，否则主人很可能会回答：「不用，你来就可以了。」大多数非正式的聚餐，你应该穿舒适、轻便的衣服。设法准时到，否则打电话告诉主人你会晚点到。用餐时，习惯上，人们会称赞女主人烹调的美食。当然，最大的赞美是多吃！


　　When you've had plenty, you might offer to clear the table or wash the dishes. But since you're the guest, your hosts may not let you. Instead, they may invite everyone to move to the living room for dessert with tea or coffee. After an hour or so of general chit-chat, it's probably time to head for the door. You don't want to wear out your welcome. And above all, don't go snooping around the house. It's more polite to wait for the host to offer you a guided tour. But except for housewarmings, guests often don't get past the living room.

　　当你吃得差不多时，或许可以主动表示要帮忙清理桌子或洗碗盘，但你既是客人，你的主人可能不会让你这样做。他们或许会邀请大家到客厅吃点心、喝茶或咖啡。聊个大约一小时或许就该离去了，你可不希望变得不受欢迎吧。还有最重要的是不要在屋子里四处窥探，等主人邀请你参观才较有礼貌。可是除了乔迁喜宴之外，客人通常都只待在客厅里。


　　Americans usually like to have advance notice when people come to see them. Only very close friends drop by unannounced. This is especially true if the guests want to stay for a few days. Here's a good rule of thumb for house guests: Short stays are best. As one 19th century French writer put it, "The first day a man is a guest, the second a burden, the third a pest." Even relatives don't usually stay for several weeks at a time. While you're staying with an American family, try to keep your living area neat and tidy. Your host family will appreciate your consideration. And they may even invite you back!

　　美国人通常喜欢访客事先通知他们，只有非常亲密的朋友才可能不请自来，尤其在客人要待好几天时更是如此。最好不要久留——这是给访客的经验之谈。如同十九世纪一位法国作家所写的：「第一天是客人，第二天是负担，第三天就是讨厌鬼了。」即使是亲戚通常也不会一次待上几个星期。当你住在美国人家里时，设法使你住的地方保持整齐清洁。你的主人一家都会感谢你这么体贴，他们甚至会再邀请你！


　　Most Americans consider themselves hospitable people. Folks in the southern United States, in particular, take pride in entertaining guests. In fact, "southern hospitality" has become legendary. But in all parts of America, people welcome their guests with open arms. So don't be surprised to find the welcome mat out for you. Just don't forget to wipe your feet.

　　大多数美国人都认为他们是好客之人。尤其是美国的南方人更以款待客人自豪，事实上，「南方的款待」是人们所津津乐道口口相传的。不过在美国各地，人们都展开双臂欢迎他们的客人，所以当你发现有WELCOME字样的鞋垫为你而时，別惊讶，只是別忘了把你的脚擦干净就是了。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十一)
Racial Issues 美国种族问题

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　　Once a man had a dream. He dreamed of a land of peace and harmony. He dreamed of a place where people were not judged by their skin color. He dreamed of a country where children of different races could play together. He dreamed of a nation where all people were equal. Some people didn't like his dream. They said it would never happen. Some people applauded his dream. They wanted to make it happen. This noble vision has come true for some. For others, it's still just a fantasy.

　　从前有一个人, 他有一个梦。他梦到一块和平与和谐的土地。他梦到一个人们不因肤色而被论断的地方。他梦到一个国家不同肤色的小子们玩在一起。他梦到一个国家, 在其中所有的人都是平等的。有些人不喜欢他的梦。他们说这个梦永远不会实现。有些人则对他的梦喝采。他们想实现这个梦。这个崇高的理想对某些人而言, 它还只是一个幻想。


　　In 1963, this man, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., expressed his vision in the famous speech, "I Have a Dream." But the dream-rooted in the American Dream-wasn't really new. From the beginning, this nation of immigrants welcomed people desiring freedom and a new start. However, the coming together of different races and ethnic groups created some tensions. The early Americans (except for the native "Indians") were almost all white Europeans. As more immigrants arrived, European groups fit into society easily. Others found it more difficult.

　　这个人, 马丁路德. 金恩博士, 在一九六三年的一篇有名的演讲"我有一个梦"当中表达了他的理想. 其实这个根植于"美国梦"的理想, 并不是个完全新潮的主意. 从一开始, 这个由移民所组成的国家, 便欢迎渴望自由和新开始的人来到. 但是, 不同种族的到来亦带来了紧张的气氛. 早期的美国人(除了印地安原住民之外)几乎全是来自欧洲的白人. 当更多的移民抵达时, 欧洲团体较容易适应这个社会, 其它团体则较感困难.


　　Black people were the only "immigrants" who didn't choose to come to America. For hundreds of years, Africans were taken from their homes to be slaves in the New World. Even George Washington and Thomas Jefferson had slaves. The phrase "all men are created equal" didn't apply to blacks in their day. The end of the Civil War finally brought freedom to the slaves in 1865, but blacks still had a lower position in society. Many Southern states practiced segregation to "keep blacks in their place." Blacks and whites went to different schools, ate at different restaurants, even drank from different water fountains.

　　黑人是唯一非出于自愿而到美国来的"移民". 几百年以来, 非洲人自其家园被迫带到新世界为奴. 即使乔治. 华盛顿和汤玛士. 杰弗逊也曾蓄奴. 那句"人类生而平等"的话, 在他们的时代并不适用于黑人. 一八六五年, 南北战争的结束终于为黑奴带来自由, 但是黑人的社会地位仍然较低. 许多南方的州实行种族隔离政策以使"黑人不会跨越界限". 黑人和白人上不同的学校, 在不同的餐馆吃饭, 甚至连喝水都用不同的饮水机.


　　The Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s helped black people secure many of the rights promised in the Constitution. A 1954 Supreme Court decision ruled that segregation had no place in public schools. Gradually, American education became more fair. In 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus for a white man. Her courage sparked a bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama, that ended segregation on city buses. Martin Luther King Jr. encouraged black people to use nonviolent means to achieve their goals of equal treatment. Finally, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to stop discrimination in all public places.

　　一九五Ｏ与一九六Ｏ年代的人权运动, 帮助黑人得到许多宪法中所保障的权利. 一九五四年最高法院的一个判决, 决定了在公立学校里不准实行种族隔离政策. 渐渐地, 美国的教育制度越来越公平了. 一九五五年, 罗莎. 帕克拒绝在公车上让位给一个白人. 她的勇气激起了阿接巴马州的蒙哥马利市对公车的抵制, 结束了市区公车上的种族隔离制度. 马丁路得. 金恩博士鼓励黑人, 使用非暴力方式达到他们追求平等待遇的目标. 最后, 国会在一九六四年通过民权法案, 禁止所有在公共场合的歧视.


　　In spite of the gains of the Civil Rights Movement, racial problems still exist. The laws have changed, but some people-on all sides of the color spectrum-remain prejudiced. Ten-sions sometimes erupt in violence. The 1992 Los Angeles riots sprang from the verdict of a racially-charged court case. Moreover, blacks and whites are not the only racial groups struggling to get along. Multicultural America has numerous minority groups that argue for equal treatment. Some contend that current immigration laws unfairly discriminate against certain racial groups.

　　虽然民权运动带来进步, 但是种族问题仍然存在. 法律已经改变了, 但是有些人--各种肤色的人--仍然保有歧视的态度. 紧张情形有时会引发暴力. 一九九二年的洛杉矶动乃是因一件因种族问题而起诉法院判决而引发的. 此外, 黑人和白人并不是为和平相处而挣扎的唯一种族团体. 多元文化的美国拥有无数为平等待遇而争论的少数团体. 有些人争论现行的移民法不公平地歧视某些种族团体.


　　Even so, in the past 40 years, race relations in America have greatly improved. Minority groups now have equal opportunities in many areas of education, employment and housing. Interracial marriages are becoming more accepted. Children of different races-and their parents-are learning to play together and work together. Maybe Dr. King's dream will come true after all.

　　即使如此, 在过去四十年间, 美国种族之间的关系已经大有进步. 少数团体现在在教育, 就业及住屋许多方面已有公平的机会. 异族的通婚已越来越被接受. 不同种族的小孩以及他们的父母亲, 也在学习与其它种族一起游戏和一起工作, 或许金恩博士的梦终会实现.

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十二)


Law and Order 美国的法律与秩序

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　　　What does it mean to obey the law? That depends on where you are. Different cultures have very different views of obeying the law. In some cultures, law-abiding citizens try to keep the letter of the law. That is, whatever the law says, they do. In other cultures, good citizens live by the spirit of the law. They see the law only as a general guideline. Often they obey the law only when someone official is looking. The situation in America fits into the first category. That doesn't mean all Americans keep the law. But American culture teaches people to respect the law--even to the smallest detail.

　　守法的定义是什么? 那要视你身处何地而定, 不同的文化对守法有不同的看法. 在一些文化中, 守法的公民会试着完全遵守法律的字面规定, 也就是说, 不管法律怎么规定, 他们都会照着去做. 而在其它文化中, 好公民则按着法律的精神来做, 他们视法律为一般的准则, 通常只有在执法人员会看到的情况下才守法. 美国的情况是属于第一种, 但这并不表示所有的美国人守法. 但是美国的文化教导人民要尊重法律--即使是在很小的细节上.


　　Driving habits illustrate American respect for the law. A driver will usually stop for a red light, even when there are no other cars around. People treat the lines marking streets and roads as definite boundaries, not just decora-tions. Vehicles yield to those with the right of way-particularly pedestrians. Actually, though, drivers don't always keep traffic rules. For example, many drivers ignore freeway speed limits. But Americans generally drive with careful attention to the rules.

　　美国人的开车习惯说明了他们对法律的尊重态度. 开车的人通常会在红灯前停下来, 即使四周没有其它的车也是如此. 人们视街道上的标线为绝对的界线, 而不只是装饰而已. 车辆会让路给有权先行者 - 尤其是行人. 然而, 事实上, 开车的人并没有遵守所有的交通规则, 举例来说, 很多开车的人根本不理会高速公路上的速限. 但是美国人在开车时通常会小心地留意交通规则.


　　History gives several clues to explain American attitudes toward the law. The U.S. Constitution, the basis for all laws in America, reflects many historical influences. The Magna Carta, or "Great Charter," was one. King John of England was forced to sign this document in 1215. It placed the king under the authority of the law. No longer was the king law; rather, the law was king. America's Christian heritage has also shaped how people view the law. For one thing, the Bible reveals God's unchanging laws which people must obey. It also teaches people to respect human authority as established by God.

　　过去的历史可以提供点线索来解释今天美国人对法律的态度. 美国宪法是美国所有法律的基础, 由它反映出很多历史性的影响. "Magna Carta"或称为"英国大宪章"就是一例, 英王约翰在一二一五年被迫签署这份文件, 它把国王置于法律的权威之下. 国王的命令不再成为法律, 相反的, 法律才是最高的权威. 美国的基督教传统也影响了美国人对法律的看法. 首先, 圣经显示了上帝不改变的律法, 这是人们必须遵守的, 它也教导人们尊重上帝所设立的执政掌权者.


　　Of course, not everyone in America abides by the law. Crime is a growing problem. For that reason, law enforce-ment officials will never be out of a job. Police officers have their hands full trying to arrest lawbreakers. Detective agencies spend countless hours trying to figure out unsolved crimes. Nevertheless, most Americans still like to believe that the "long arm of the law" will eventually nab the bad guys.

　　当然, 并非每个美国人都守法, 犯罪是一个日益严重的问题. 正因这个原因, 执法人员永远都不会失业, 警察手上堆满了逮捕罪犯的工作, 侦探社花上数不清的时间想办法解决尚未侦破的案件. 尽管如此, 大部份美国人仍相信"法律的长胳臂"终究会逮到坏人的.


　　But even bad guys in America have the right to a fair trial. When a person is brought to an American court, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Many ancient Eastern systems, in contrast, viewed an accused person as guilty until proven innocent. They used torture and other extreme measures to find out the truth. The American system tries to protect the rights of the accused. Still, the system is far from perfect. Court cases involving celebrities like O.J. Simpson can become media circuses. Skilled lawyers sometimes use minor issues to get their clients set free. And prison inmates may live even better than many poor citizens.

　　可是, 即使是坏人, 在美国仍享有接受公平审判的权利. 当一个人被带到美国的法庭时, 在证明有罪之前, 会先假设他是无罪的. 相反的, 在很多古老的东方体系中, 在证明被起诉者为无辜之前,都视他为有罪, 他们用严刑拷打其它严厉的方法来找出事实的真相.美国的司法系统试着要保护被起诉人的权利, 但是这个系统离完美尚有一截. 像辛普森这种知名人物的法庭案例, 反而成了媒体的马戏; 有技巧的律师有时会用不重要的论点帮客户脱罪; 而监狱里囚犯的生活甚至可能比很多穷人还要好.


　　No one believes a perfect legal system is possible. Yet every society has laws. Whether people follow the letter of the law or just the spirit of the law, they recognize the need for laws to keep order in society. Without them, chaos would result. If every man were a law unto himself, no man would be free.

　　大家都认为完美的法律系统是不可能的. 但是, 每个社会都订有法律. 不管人们是完全守法还是只遵守法律的精神, 他们认同以法律来维持社会秩序的需要. 没有法律, 社会就会变得杂乱无章, 如果每个人都有自己的一套法律, 就没有人能享有自由.

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十三)


Sports 美式运动

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　　In many parts of the world, there are four seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter. In the U.S., there are only three: football, basketball and baseball. That's not completely true, but almost. In every season, Americans have a ball. If you want to know what season it is, just look at what people are playing. For many Americans, sports do not just occupy the sidelines. They take center court.

　　世界上的许多地方，一年有四季：春、夏、秋、冬。美国，却只有三季：足球、篮球和棒球季。这并非完全正确，但也差得不远了。每一个季节，美国人都有乐趣。若你想知道此季为何，看看人们正在打什么球就行了。对于多数美国人而言，运动并非只是一旁站的小消遣，它是生活中很重要的一环。


　　Besides "the big three" sports, Americans play a variety of other sports. In warm weather, people enjoy water sports. Lovers of surfing, sailing and scuba diving flock to the ocean. Swimmers and water skiers also revel in the wet stuff. Fishermen try their luck in ponds, lakes and rivers. In winter sportsmen delight in freezing fun. From the first snowfall, skiers hit the slopes. Frozen ponds and ice rinks become playgrounds for skating and hockey. People play indoor sports whatever the weather. Racquetball, weightlifting and bowling are year-round activities.

　　除了这「三大运动」，美国人还做许多其它的运动。天热时，他们喜欢水上运动。冲浪、驾帆船和潜水的爱好者群集于海中。游泳和滑水者，也纵情于水中。渔夫在池塘、湖泊和河川里试他们的运气。冬季，运动员在冰天雪地里也玩得很开心。从下雪的头一天起，滑雪者便登上雪坡。结了冰的池塘和溜冰场成了溜冰和冰上曲棍球的场地。不论气候如何，人们都从事户内运动。回力球、举重和保龄球都是全年性的活动。


　　For many people in the U.S., sports are not just for fun. They're almost a religion. Thousands of sports fans buy expensive tickets to watch their favorite teams and athletes play in person. Other fans watch the games at home, glued to their TV sets. The most devoted sports buffs never miss a game. Many a wife becomes a "sports widow" during her husband's favorite season. America's devotion to athletics has created a new class of wealthy people: professional athletes. Sports stars often receive million-dollar salaries. Some even make big money appearing in advertisements for soft drinks, shoes and even toiletries.

　　对许多的美国人而言，运动不只是为了好玩。它几乎成了一种宗教崇拜，数以千计的运动迷会为了能亲眼目睹他们喜爱的球队或运动员比赛而出高价购买门票。其它的球迷则守在家里寸步不离地收看电视转播。那些最热衷的运动迷 ，从不错过任何一场比赛。而当先生们最热衷的运动季节到了的时候，他们的太太们都变成了「运动寡妇」。美国人对于运动的投入形成了一个新的富有阶级：职业运动员。运动明星通常会收到上百万元的薪水。其中有些人甚至是因为替饮料、鞋，甚至个人化妆用品拍广告而赚了一大笔钱。


　　Not all Americans worship sports, but athletics are an important part of their culture. Throughout their school life, Americans learn to play many sports. All students take physical education classes in school. Some try out for the school teams, while others join intramural sports leagues. Athletic events at universities attract scores of fans and benefit the whole community. Many people also enjoy non-competitive activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping or hunting. To communicate with American sports nuts, it helps if you can talk sports.

　　并非所有的美国人都崇拜运动，但运动的确是他们文化当中极为重要的一部份。在他们的学校生活当中，美国人学习许多运动。所有的学生都必须在学校修体育课。有些人参加校队的选拔；有的则加入校内的运动联盟。在大学中举办的运动比赛通常吸引众多的运动迷，并且造福整个社区。许多人也喜欢从事一些非竞争性的活动像健行、骑单车、骑马、露营或打猎。要和美国运动迷沟通，最好是能畅谈运动。


　　Sports in America represent the international heritage of the people who play. Many sports were imported from other countries. European immigrants brought tennis, golf, bowling and boxing to America. Football and baseball came from other Old World games. Only basketball has a truly American origin. Even today some formerly "foreign" sports like soccer are gaining American fans. In 1994 the U.S. hosted the World Cup for the first time ever.

　　美国的运动代表着从事这些运动的人的国际遗产。许多的运动是从外国引 进来的。欧洲移民把网球、高尔夫、保龄球和拳击带进了美国。足球和棒球则源自其它的欧洲传统比赛。只有篮球是唯一真正源自美国本土，即使在今日，一些原本是外来的运动例如英式足球也吸引了许多的美国运动迷。在一九九四年，美国首次负责举办世界杯足球赛。


　　Not only do Americans import sports, but they export sports fever, as well. Satellites broadcast games to sports fans around the globe. The World Series, the U.S. professional baseball championship, has begun to live up to its name. The names of American superstars like basketball great Michael Jordan have become household words the world over. Who knows? Sports seasons may even change world weather patterns.

　　美国人不只是「进口」运动，他们同样地也「出口」运动狂热。他们对全球的运动迷作卫星转播。世界系列的美国职业棒球锦标赛，也已渐趋名符其实。一些美国的超级明星，像是篮球巨人麦可乔登已经成了全世界家喻户晓的人了。谁知道呢？运动季节甚至可能会改变全世界的气象型态呢。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十四)


Time 美国人的时间观

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　　What is time? Is it a thing to be saved or spent or wasted, like money? Or is it something we have no control over, like the weather? Is time the same all over the world? That's an easy question, you say. Wherever you go, a minute is 60 seconds, an hour is 60 minutes, a day is 24 hours, and so forth. Well, maybe. But in America, time is more than that. Americans see time as a valuable resource. Maybe that's why they are fond of the expression, "Time is money."

　　时间是什么？是一种像金钱一样可以节省、花用或浪费的东西吗？或者它像天气那样，是一种我们无法掌握的东西？全世界的时间是不是都一样呢？你会说，那是一个简单的问题，不管你去那里，一分钟都是60秒，一小时是60分钟，一天是24个小时，以此类推。嗯，也许是这样吧。但是在美国，时间的意义不只是如此而已。美国人视时间为一项重要的资源，也许这就是为什么他们喜欢说「时间就是金钱」的缘故。


　　Because Americans believe time is a limited resource, they try to conserve and manage it. People in the U.S. often attend seminars or read books on time management. It seems they all want to organize their time better. Professionals carry around pocket planners-some in electronic form-to keep track of appointments and deadlines. People do all they can to squeeze more life out of their time. The early American hero Benjamin Franklin expressed this view best: "Do you love life? Then do not waste time, for that is the stuff life is made of."

　　美国人认为时间是一项有限的资源，所以他们试着去爱惜时间且加以管理。美国人经常参加有关时间管理的研习会或阅读这方面的书籍，他们似乎都希望能把自己的时间安排得更好。专业人士随身带着口袋型记事本，有些甚至是电子的记事本，好随时留意所订的约会与工作截止日期。人们想尽办法要在有限的时间内挤出更多的时间来。早期的美国英雄班哲明?富兰克林将这种想法表达得最淋漓尽致：「你爱生命吗？如果爱就不要浪费时间，因为生命即是由时间组成的。」


　　To Americans, punctuality is a way of showing respect for other people's time. Being more than 10 minutes late to an appointment usually calls for an apology, and maybe an explanation. People who are running late often call ahead to let others know of the delay. Of course, the less formal the situation, the less important it is to be exactly on time. At informal get-togethers, for example, people often arrive as much as 30 minutes past the appointed time. But they usually don't try that at work.

　　对美国人来说，守时是一种尊重他人时间的表现。通常若约会迟到超过10分钟，就应该向对方道歉或解释原因。知道自己会迟到的人往往会先打个电话，让对方知道自己会晚一点到。当然，会面场合愈不正式，精确准时的重要性就愈小。举例来说，在非正式的聚会中，人们往往会在约定时间过后30分钟才到，不过，他们上班通常就不会这样做。


　　American lifestyles show how much people respect the time of others. When people plan an event, they often set the time days or weeks in advance. Once the time is fixed, it takes almost an emergency to change it. If people want to come to your house for a friendly visit, they will usually call first to make sure it is convenient. Only very close friends will just "drop by" unannounced. Also, people hesitate to call others late at night for fear they might be in bed. The time may vary, but most folks think twice about calling after 10:00 p.m.

　　美国人的生活型态表现出他们对别人的时间有多尊重。当人们在计划一项活动时，通常会在几天或几个星期前把时间定好。时间一旦决定，除非情况紧急，否则不会轻易改变。如果有人想到家里拜访你，他们通常会先打电话过来，以确定你是否方便，只有很熟的朋友才会未经通知就突然造访。同时，人们也不太喜欢太晚打电话给别人，因为怕对方已经上床睡觉了。何时才算太晚并不一定，不过，大部分的人若想在晚上10点钟以后打电话，都会再三考虑。


　　To outsiders, Americans seem tied to the clock. People in other cultures value relationships more than schedules. In these societies, people don't try to control time, but to experience it. Many Eastern cultures, for example, view time as a cycle. The rhythm of nature-from the passing of the seasons to the monthly cycle of the moon-shapes their view of events. People learn to respond to their environment. As a result, they find it easier to "go with the flow" than Americans, who like plans to be fixed and unchangeable.

　　对外人而言，美国人似乎很依赖时钟；其它文化背景出身的人则看重人际关系甚于时间表。在那些社会型态中，人们不会设法去控制时间，而是去经历享受它。举例来说，很多东方文化把时间视为一个周期。从季节的更替到每个月亮圆缺变化的周期，这些大自然的节奏塑造了他们对事情的看法。人们学习去因应环境的变化，因此他们比美国人更容易视情境而作弹性的应变；而美国人则喜欢将计划固定好不要更动。


　　Even Americans would admit that no one can master time. Time-like money-slips all too easily through our fingers. And time-like the weather-is very hard to predict. Nevertheless, time is one of life's most precious gifts. And unwrapping it is half the fun.

　　不过连美国人都承认，没有人能够完全掌握时间。时间就像金钱一样，很容易就从我们的指间溜走；时间也像天气一样，是很难预测的。然而，时间是生命中最宝贵的礼物之一，而拆开（这项难以掌握和预料的）礼物本身就已经是一种乐趣了。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十五)


Travel 美国旅游风尚

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　　It's summertime, and the livin' is easy. For many Americans, this is the season to travel. Why? Because school is out. Because the weather is great. And most of all, because we all deserve a break. When Americans take a break, they often head for their favorite vacation spot.

　　夏天到了，生活很惬意。对很多美国人来说，这是个旅游的季节，为什么？因为学校放假，因为天气很好，但最重要的是，休个假是我们所应得的。美国人休假时经常会去他们最喜欢的渡假地点。

　　Throughout their history, Americans have been people on the move. The early immigrants had to travel to get to the New World. Once they arrived, they settled along the East Coast. But they weren't content to stay there. Explorers and traders journeyed to the unknown western territories. Later, settlers moved west to develop these new areas. As a result of this westward migration, Americans eventually occupied the whole continent-from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Even today, Americans seem unable to stay put. Research says that the average American moves every five years.

　　纵观整个历史，美国人一直是个迁移的民族。早期的移民者必须长途跋涉才能抵达新大陆，他们一到达就沿着东岸定居，但却不满于长居那地，冒险家和商人旅行至未知的西部地区。稍后，移民者也向西迁移去开发这些新地区。由于向西迁移，美国人最后占据了整块新大陆--从大西洋到太平洋。即使到今天，美国人似乎仍然无法在一地久居。根据研究，美国人平均每五年要搬一次家。


　　Besides their habit of changing addresses, Americans are used to traveling. Some people make long-distance commutes to work daily. Their jobs may even require them to take frequent business trips. Most companies provide an annual vacation for their employees, and people often use that time to travel. Some people just visit friends or relatives in distant states. Others go on low-budget weekend excursions and stay in economy motels. Those with more expensive tastes choose luxurious resorts and hotels. Camping out in the great outdoors appeals to adventurous types. Some travel in recreational vehicles (RVs) to camp out in comfort, while others "rough it" by sleeping in tents.

　　除了搬家的习惯以外，美国人也很习惯旅行。有些人每天上下班得做长距离的通勤，工作上甚至经常需要因公旅行。大部分的公司每年会提供年假给员工，人们通常会利用这段时间去旅行。有些人去远一点的别州拜访朋友或亲戚，有些则在周末有个经济的小假期，并住在花费不高的旅馆里。品味较昂贵的人选择豪华的渡假地点和饭店；绝佳的户外露营则吸引冒险型的人。有些人开着旅行车出游，以舒适的方式露营；有些人则睡帐篷尝试野外生活。


　　Most Americans prefer to travel within their nation's borders. Why? For one thing, it's cheaper than traveling abroad, and there's no language problem. But besides that, the vast American territory offers numerous tourist attractions. Nature lovers can enjoy beaches, mountains, canyons, lakes and a wealth of natural wonders. Major cities offer visitors a multitude of urban delights. The convenience of modern freeways, railways and airplanes makes travel in America as easy as pie.

　　大部分美国人比较喜欢在国内旅游，为什么呢？其中一个原因是，国内旅游比国外旅游便宜，也没有语言不通的问题。但除此原因以外，占地极广的美国国土提供了许多能吸引游客的地点。爱好大自然的人可以到海滩、山上、峡谷、湖泊和很多大自然奇景地区游览。大城市也提供给游客们很多都市型态的娱乐。现代高速公路、铁路和飞机使得在美国旅行很容易。


　　Many American vacations are as unique as the people who take them. Families often plan their trips with the kids in mind. More and more "family friendly" vacation resorts offer special programs for children. History buffs seek out famous historical sites and museums. Environmentalists prefer "green vacations." These trips allow them to observe flora and fauna up-close without disturbing the sensitive balance of nature. Some people find sea cruises relaxing and refreshing. Others hit the water to go fishing, skiing or white-water rafting. Daring souls get the thrill of a lifetime on trekking expeditions and safaris in remote places from Africa to Asia.

　　很多美国假期非常特别，和参与此种假期的人一样特别。全家出游时通常会将孩子考虑在内，有愈来愈多「适合全家出游」的渡假地点为孩子提供特别的活动。对历史有兴趣的人会找一些著名的历史据点和博物馆。有环保意识的人喜欢「环保假期」，这样的旅行使他们能近距离观察动植物，并且不会扰乱了大自然敏感的生态平衡。有些人觉得海上旅游能使心情放松并感到清爽，有些人则到水边钓鱼、滑水或泛舟。胆子大的人到亚洲和非洲去探险狩猎作长途旅行，享受一辈子难得一次的刺激。


　　Americans aren't the only people in the world who travel. International business, mass communication and jet airplanes have created a world of globetrotters. People all over the world enjoy going abroad to travel. And no matter where they live, people enjoy visiting scenic spots in their own country. But being on the go makes Americans what they are: people on the move. In America, almost every-body is a tourist sometime.

　　美国人不是世上唯一爱旅行的人。国际企业、大众传播与喷射机创造了一个环游世界者的世纪。全世界的人都喜欢到海外旅游，不管住在那里，人们都喜欢去造访自己国家内风景优美的地区。不过好动的本性使美国人变成今天的模样：成为爱迁移的人。在美国，几乎每个人都有旅游的经验。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十六)


美国的州名从何而来？

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How Did the States Get Their Names?

　　People who visit the United States sometimes wonder how the states got their names. Some of the most interesting names came from American Indian (印第安人) languages.

　　访问美国的人们常常想知道各个州的名称是从何而来的。一些最有趣的名字来源于(美州)印第安人的语言。


　　For example, Illinois was named for the Indians who used to (过去常常) live in that part of the country. In their language, Illinois means "Brave (勇敢的) Men". Connecticut means "At the Long River Mouth" in the language of the Indians who used to live there.

　　例如伊利诺州是因过去住在这一带的印第安人而得名的。在他们的语言中伊利诺是"勇士"的意思。康乃狄格(州)在过去住在那里的印第安人的语言中,表示"在长河的河口"。


　　Twenty-five of the states have Indian names, but other names were taken from different languages. Georgia and Pennsylvania have names which were taken from the Latin (拉丁语的) language. Florida and Colorado were named by Spanish (西班牙) people. States like New Hampshire and New Jersey were named after (以…命名) places in England.

　　有25个州用印第安人的名称命名,另外一些州的名字则从没的语言中得来。乔治亚和宾夕法尼亚洲的名字源于拉丁文。佛罗里达和科罗拉多是由西班牙人命名的。像新罕布什尔和新泽西这样的州名是按英国的地名命名的。


　　The two newest states have names which did not come from any of those languages. Hawaii got its name from a word in the Hawaiian language which means "homeland" (家乡). Alaska was named by the Russians, from whom Alaska was bought in 1867.

　　最新的两个州的名字不是来自于那些语言。夏威夷是按夏威夷语中的一个词命名的,意思是"家乡"。阿拉斯加州是1867年从俄国人手里买来的,而它的名字也是由俄国人命名的。

jsphsz

了解美国系列阅读 (十七)


Helping Others 美国方式：帮助他人

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　　Christmas in America means different things to different people. To some people, Christmas means brightly wrapped packages under a decorated tree. To others, it means family reunions and a wonderful meal together. To Christians, it means Jesus' birthday. Christmas also means lending a helping hand to people in need. Along with all the hubbub of shopping for presents and sending Christmas cards, many people in America take time to help others.

　　在美国，圣诞节对不同的人代表了不同的意义。对某些人而言，圣诞节的意义是在布置好的圣诞树底下那些包装得色彩鲜艳的礼物。对另外一些人而言，它的意义则是家人团圆以及共享美好的一餐。对基督徒来说，它代表了耶稣的诞生。圣诞节的意义也是向需要帮助的人伸出援手。在采购礼物及寄送圣诞卡片的一阵忙乱当中，很多美国人仍会拨出时间去帮助别人。


　　In America and around the world, Christmas offers many opportunities to spread "peace on earth, good will toward men." For example, Salvation Army bell ringers are a familiar sight to most Christmas shoppers. They stand outside malls and stores collecting money for the needy. Many churches and other organizations collect toys and clothes as Christmas gifts for poor families. Going caroling is another traditional way to bring cheer to neighbors--especially the elderly and people who can't get out much. The Christmas spirit encourages people to help each other in many large and small ways.

　　在美国及全世界各地，圣诞节提供了很多传扬「平安与世，善意与人」的机会。例如，救世军的摇铃者对大多数为圣诞节购物的人们而言，是一个熟悉的景象。他们通常会站在购物中心和商店外面，为有需要的人募钱。很多教会和其它的机构会收集玩具和衣服，作为穷苦家庭的圣诞礼物。报佳音是另外一种能够将欢乐带给邻舍的传统方式，尤其是针对那些老人和无法常出门的人。圣诞节的精神鼓励人们在许多大大小小的事情上互相帮助。


　　The spirit of helping others isn't limited to Christmas, however. Americans help others year-round. Civic clubs such as the Lion's Club, the Elk's Club and the Rotary Club take part in local community projects. Many organizations exist just to help others. The Make a Wish Foundation gives terminally ill children a chance to have their dream come true. Habitat for Humanity helps poor people build their own houses. And besides supporting worthy causes with their money, thousands of Americans donate their time by serving as volunteers in hospitals, homeless shelters and schools.

　　然而，助人的精神并不只有在圣诞节才能发挥。美国人一年到头都在帮助他人。像狮子会(Lion's Club)、角鹿社(Elk's Club)、扶轮社(Rotary Club)这样的市民会社，都参与了地方社区的计划活动。很多机构的设立就是为了要助人。许愿基金会(Make a Wish Foundation)给罹患末期疾病的孩童们一个美梦成真的机会；仁爱之家(Habitat for Humanity)则帮助穷苦的人们建盖属于他们自己的房子。成千上万的美国人除了以金钱支持一些有意义的事情之外，他们也献出自己的时间在医院、流浪者之家和学校作义工服务。


　　Christmas in America means different things to different people. To some people, Christmas means brightly wrapped packages under a decorated tree. To others, it means family reunions and a wonderful meal together. To Christians, it means Jesus' birthday. Christmas also means lending a helping hand to people in need. Along with all the hubbub of shopping for presents and sending Christmas cards, many people in America take time to help others.

　　在美国，圣诞节对不同的人代表了不同的意义。对某些人而言，圣诞节的意义是在布置好的圣诞树底下那些包装得色彩鲜艳的礼物。对另外一些人而言，它的意义则是家人团圆以及共享美好的一餐。对基督徒来说，它代表了耶稣的诞生。圣诞节的意义也是向需要帮助的人伸出援手。在采购礼物及寄送圣诞卡片的一阵忙乱当中，很多美国人仍会拨出时间去帮助别人。


　　In America and around the world, Christmas offers many opportunities to spread "peace on earth, good will toward men." For example, Salvation Army bell ringers are a familiar sight to most Christmas shoppers. They stand outside malls and stores collecting money for the needy. Many churches and other organizations collect toys and clothes as Christmas gifts for poor families. Going caroling is another traditional way to bring cheer to neighbors--especially the elderly and people who can't get out much. The Christmas spirit encourages people to help each other in many large and small ways.

　　在美国及全世界各地，圣诞节提供了很多传扬「平安与世，善意与人」的机会。例如，救世军的摇铃者对大多数为圣诞节购物的人们而言，是一个熟悉的景象。他们通常会站在购物中心和商店外面，为有需要的人募钱。很多教会和其它的机构会收集玩具和衣服，作为穷苦家庭的圣诞礼物。报佳音是另外一种能够将欢乐带给邻舍的传统方式，尤其是针对那些老人和无法常出门的人。圣诞节的精神鼓励人们在许多大大小小的事情上互相帮助。


　　The spirit of helping others isn't limited to Christmas, however. Americans help others year-round. Civic clubs such as the Lion's Club, the Elk's Club and the Rotary Club take part in local community projects. Many organizations exist just to help others. The Make a Wish Foundation gives terminally ill children a chance to have their dream come true. Habitat for Humanity helps poor people build their own houses. And besides supporting worthy causes with their money, thousands of Americans donate their time by serving as volunteers in hospitals, homeless shelters and schools.

　　然而，助人的精神并不只有在圣诞节才能发挥。美国人一年到头都在帮助他人。像狮子会(Lion's Club)、角鹿社(Elk's Club)、扶轮社(Rotary Club)这样的市民会社，都参与了地方社区的计划活动。很多机构的设立就是为了要助人。许愿基金会(Make a Wish Foundation)给罹患末期疾病的孩童们一个美梦成真的机会；仁爱之家(Habitat for Humanity)则帮助穷苦的人们建盖属于他们自己的房子。成千上万的美国人除了以金钱支持一些有意义的事情之外，他们也献出自己的时间在医院、流浪者之家和学校作义工服务。

sunny_life

very good materials ,thanks for sharing.