Writing(30 minutes)

　　Directions: For this part, you are allowed thirty　minutes to write a letter to your American friend　Lawrence, to introduce Spring Festival in China and　invite him to join you to spend this Spring Festival.　Suppose you are Yuan Chao. You should write at least　120 words following the suggestions given below in　Chinese:

　　1. 表达你对Lawrence的想念之情;

　　2. 介绍中国的春节;

　　3. 邀请Lawrence和你们一起过春节。

　　提示:在实考试卷中，该试题在答题卡1上。

　　A Letter to Lawrence

　　September 23, 2005

　　Dear Lawrence,

　　Yours,

　　Yuan Chao

　　参考答案：

　　Dear Lawrence,

　　It has been five years since we met each other　last time. How time flies! How are things with you?　The happy time we spent together is always on my mind　and I really hope to meet you again. As you know, Spring Festival, Lunar New Year, is　the most favorable holiday for us Chinese. With its colorful and　rich traditions, it is celebrated almost in every part　of China. Everyone is indulged in the dominant　atmosphere of joyous family reunion and with the fresh　and vigorous look people greet the New Year.

　　The celebrations vary from place to place, but　there are three traditions that have never differed　throughout the country. First, the New Year’s Eve dinner　is a symbol of family reunion, with all family members　sitting around the steaming table, tasting a variety　of delicious food and wishing each other health,　success and happiness. Second, people, during the　holidays, will visit each other to express their best　regards and wishes. And finally, we can enjoy the　marvelous lion and dragon dances symbolizing　happiness, good fortune and prosperity.

　　The day is drawing nearer, my families and I　sincerely invite you to join us for this year’s　Spring Festival. If you’d like to, we can make　further arrangements. Looking forward to your reply!

　　Yours,

　　Yuan Chao