辽宁省葫芦岛市第一高级中学2015届高三上学期周考（二十） 英语试题
第二部分：阅读理解
A
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “roses”? You would often assume that it is the red rose that is being referred to. Why is this so? Simply because there is no flower that has been respected and celebrated as much as the red rose.
In the 1800's, the modern red rose we are now familiar with was introduced to Europe from China. Evidence suggests that the red rose is nearly 35 million years old. The most commonly available roses belong to two broad categories: the Oriental species and their hybrids(杂交品种), and the European species and their hybrids. It is possible to grow a red rose anywhere in the world, if the species which it belongs to is selected according to climatic conditions.
The red rose is a universal symbol of romance, passion and most importantly true love. Red roses are most often used as a strong expression of love, especially on special occasions like Saint Valentine's Day. Back in the 18th century, during a time when speaking aloud about one's heartfelt feelings was not in line with social customs, a special rose language was developed. This secret language acted as a system of communication between lovers who were forced to hide their true emotions by the society. Since then, the red rose has come to symbolize true love that will overcome all difficulties and the test of time.
The red rose is also one of the most universal of all symbols. Apart from being the ultimate(最终的) symbol of love, red roses can also be used to celebrate courage, send out message of congratulations, and symbolize power. Scientific researches show that the red rose can be used to cure some diseases.
21．The second paragraph mainly talks about __________.
A. where the red rose can be planted
B. what message the red rose conveys
C. the origin and types of the red rose
D. how the red rose became universally popular
22．What does the underlined phrase “in line with” in Paragraph 3 most probably mean?
A. honored by B. forbidden by
C. needed by D. accepted by
