Trắc nghiệm tổng hợp ôn thi tốt nghiệp THPT môn Tiếng Anh Chuyên đề VII. Đọc hiểu có đáp án

Glass fibers have a long history. By 1600 B.C., the Egyptians were producing coarse fibers, and as early as 1375 B.C., fibers were used as ornaments on Egyptian pottery. Glassmakers in Venice employed glass fibers to adorn the exterior of simple glass vessels throughout the Renaissance, which took place in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries A.D. But glassmakers were so secretive about their trade that no one wrote about the creation of glass fiber until the early seventeenth century.

     During the seventeenth century, "spun glass" fibers were created. French physicist Rene-Antoine de Reaumur attempted to create glass feather substitutes. By spinning a wheel into a puddle of molten glass and plucking glass threads where the hot, viscous liquid adhered to the wheel, he created fibers. Despite the short and delicate nature of his fibers, he anticipated that spun glass threads as thin as spider silk would be flexible enough to be woven into textiles. Glassmakers discovered at the beginning of the nineteenth century that using a hot glass tube to extract fibers from molten glass produced longer, stronger fibers. The creators wrapped a yarn reel with the cooling end of the thread and quickly spun it to extract additional fiber from the molten glass. At fairs, it was the custom of itinerant craftsmen to spin glass fibers into decorations and ornaments for collectors. However, this material proved to be unsuitable for most purposes, as the tattered, brittle threads could only extend up to ten feet, which was the circle of the largest reels.

     But by the middle of the 1870s, the finest glass fibers were finer than silk, and they could be combined to create faux ostrich feathers that could be used to adorn hats or woven into garments. Spun glass cloth in white had a silvery appearance, whereas fibers extracted from yellow-orange glass had a golden hue. Before their thermal and electrical insulating qualities were recognised and techniques for creating continuous filaments were discovered, glass fibers were essentially a novelty in the 1930s. Glass is supplied directly from a glass-melting furnace into a bushing, a container punctured with hundreds of tiny nozzles, where it emerges in fine streams, as part of the modern manufacturing process. The streams of glass are collected into a single strand and wrapped onto a reel as they solidify.

     The most thoroughly studied cases of deception strategies employed by ground-nesting birds involve plovers, small birds that typically nest on beaches or in open fields, their nests merely scrape in the sand or earth. Plovers also have an effective repertoire of tricks for distracting potential nest predators from their exposed and defenseless eggs or chicks.

     The ever-watchful plover can detect a possible threat at a considerable distance. When she does, the nesting bird moves inconspicuously off the nest to a spot well away from eggs or chicks. At this point, she may use one of several ploys. One technique involves first moving quietly toward an approaching animal and then setting off noisily through the grass or brush in a low, crouching run away from the nest, while emitting rodent like squeaks. The effect mimics a scurrying mouse or vole, and the behaviour rivets the attention of the type of predators that would also be interested in eggs and chicks.

     Another deception begins with quiet movement to an exposed and visible location well away from the nest. Once there, the bird pretends to incubate a brood. When the predator approaches, the parent flees, leaving the false nest to be searched. The direction in which the plover "escapes" is such that if the predator chooses to follow, it will be led still further away from the true nest.

     The plover's most famous stratagem is the broken-wing display, actually a continuum of injury-mimicking behaviours spanning the range from slight disability to near-complete helplessness. One or both wings are held in an abnormal position, suggesting injury. The bird appears to be attempting to escape along an irregular route that indicates panic. In the most extreme version of the display, the bird flaps one wing in an apparent attempt to take to the air, flops over helplessly, struggles back to its feet, runs away a short distance, seemingly attempts once more to take off, flops over again as the "useless" wing fails to provide any lift, and so on. Few predators fail to pursue such obviously vulnerable prey.

     Needless to say, each short run between "flight attempts" is directed away from the nest.

     TikTok is a social media platform that has exploded in popularity among teenagers and young adults. While it can be a fun way to share videos and connect with friends, there are some negative effects that users should be aware of.

     One of the main concerns about TikTok is its addictive nature. The app uses an algorithm to show users a constant stream of short videos, which makes it easy to spend hours scrolling through content. This can lead to a significant amount of time being wasted and can also interfere with other important activities, such as schoolwork or spending time with family and friends.

     There are also privacy concerns associated with TikTok. The app collects a large amount of personal data from its users, including their location, IP address, and browsing history. This information can be used for targeted advertising, but it can also be sold to third parties without the user's consent. In fact, TikTok was recently fined $5.7 million by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission for illegally collecting data from children under the age of 13.

     Finally, TikTok can have a negative impact on body image and self-esteem. Many of the most popular videos on the app feature attractive, thin, and seemingly perfect individuals. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and can perpetuate harmful beauty standards. It's important for users to remember that the images they see on TikTok are often heavily edited and do not reflect reality.

     In conclusion, while TikTok can be a fun and entertaining app, it's important to be aware of its negative effects. Users should be mindful of how much time they spend on the app, and parents should have open conversations with their children about online safety and privacy.

     Kangaroos are marsupials, which means that their young are born at a very early stage of development and continue to develop outside the mother's body, usually in a pouch on the mother's belly. Kangaroos have large, powerful hind legs and a long, strong tail. They use their tails for balance while jumping. Kangaroos can travel at speeds up to 30 miles per hour and can leap some 30 feet in a single bound. Kangaroos use their small front legs to grasp objects.

     There are four different kangaroo species: the red kangaroo, eastern grey kangaroo, western grey kangaroo, and antilopine kangaroo. The red kangaroo is the largest marsupial, and males can grow up to six feet tall. Red kangaroos live in groups called mobs. Eastern grey kangaroos also live in mobs and can be found in forests and woodlands along the eastern coast of Australia. Western grey kangaroos live in the southern part of Western Australia and can be found in large numbers in the area around Perth. Antilopine kangaroos are found in northern Australia and New Guinea.

     Kangaroos are herbivores, which means that they eat plants. They mainly eat grass, but they will also eat shrubs and trees if food is scarce. Kangaroos are nocturnal animals, which means that they are most active during the night. During the day, kangaroos rest in the shade or in caves. The average lifespan of a kangaroo is six years.

     Modern art is a term used to describe the artworks produced in the period from around 1860 to the 1970 s. It is a time of great change and development in society, and this is reflected in the art of the period.

     One of the key characteristics of modern art is its focus on experimentation and innovation. Artists were no longer interested in simply representing the world as it appeared, but instead they wanted to explore new ways of seeing and understanding it. This led to the development of a wide range of new artistic styles and movements, including Impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism.

     Another important feature of modern art is its engagement with contemporary social and political issues. Many artists during this period felt a strong sense of social responsibility and believed that art had the power to bring about social change. They used their work to challenge traditional ideas and values, and to comment on the major events and conflicts of the time. For example, Pablo Picasso's painting Guernica (1937) is a powerful protest to the horrors of war.

     In addition to these changes in style and subject matter, modern art also saw a shift in the way artworks were made and presented. Artists began to experiment with new materials and techniques, such as collage, assemblage, and readymade. They also started to question the idea of the artwork as a unique, precious object, and instead embraced the use of mass production and new media, such as photography and film.

     Today, the legacy of modern art can be seen in almost every aspect of our visual culture. Its influence can be seen in everything from advertising and fashion to design and architecture.

     Bullying and body-shaming are two major social issues among teenagers today. However, thanks to social media, young people are now more aware of these problems than ever before.

     Bullying has always been a problem in schools, but it used to be limited to the schoolyard. Today, with the rise of smartphones and social media, bullying can happen 24 / 7 and reach a much wider audience. Such cyberbullying can have serious consequences for its victims, including depression and even suicide. Fortunately, better awareness of the negative effects of bullying has resulted in many schools' implementation of anti-bullying programs to help protect their students.

     Body-shaming is another issue that has become more prevalent with the rise of social media. Young people, especially girls, are under constant pressure to look a certain way. They are bombarded with images of perfect bodies on platforms like Instagram, which can lead to low self-esteem and unhealthy behaviours such as eating disorders. However, there is also a growing movement promoting body positivity and acceptance. Many influencers and celebrities are using their platforms to challenge traditional beauty standards and encourage young people to love themselves as they are.

     While bullying and body-shaming continue to be social issues among teenagers, there is now greater awareness and efforts being made by schools, famous people and others to address these problems.

     Shanghai is the largest city in China and one of the largest cities in the world. It has a population of over 24 million people. In the past 20 years, it has developed into a global financial centre and a major transport hub.

     The city's rapid growth can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons is its location. Situated on the east coast of China, it has easy access to international markets. The city's deep-water port is one of the busiest in the world, which makes it an attractive destination for foreign investors and businesses.

     Another reason for the city's growth is its infrastructure. Over the past two decades, Shanghai has invested heavily in building new roads, bridges, and tunnels. There is now an extensive metro system, making it easy for people to travel around. It also has two international airports, which connect it to major cities around the world.

     In addition, the government has introduced a number of policies to encourage growth. For example, special economic zones where foreign companies can set up their operations were founded in the city. These are given tax breaks and other incentives. As a result, many multinational corporations have established their headquarters or regional offices in Shanghai.

     The city has also invested in education and research. It is home to some of the top universities in China, such as Fudan University and Jiao Tong University. These institutions attract students and researchers from all over the country. The city's research institutes and technology parks have helped to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.

     However, the rapid growth of Shanghai has also brought about some issues such as traffic congestion, pollution, and a shortage of affordable housing. The government has implemented measures to reduce air pollution, and it is also investing in public transport and affordable housing.

     Teenagers face a variety of issues at school that can have a significant impact on their well-being and academic performance. One common challenge is dealing with stress and pressure. The demands of schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social obligations can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and burnout.

     Another issue is peer pressure. Teenagers often feel the need to fit in and may engage in risky behaviours or make poor choices in order to be accepted by their peers. This can include experimenting with drugs and alcohol, engaging in bullying or gossip, or taking part in dangerous activities.

     Bullying is another major concern for many teenagers. Whether it is physical, verbal, or cyberbullying, the effects can be devastating and long-lasting. Victims of bullying often experience low self-esteem, depression, and even thoughts of suicide.

     Academic challenges are also common among teenagers. Some may struggle with certain subjects or have difficulty managing their time and staying organized.

Others may feel bored or unchallenged by the material, leading to a lack of motivation.

     Finally, the pressure to succeed and plan for the future can cause a great deal of stress for teenagers. Many feel the need to excel academically, participate in numerous extracurricular activities, and maintain a flawless resume in order to get into a top college or university.

     It's important for parents, teachers, and other adults to be aware of these issues and provide the necessary support and resources for teenagers to navigate these challenges successfully.

     The Masai Mara is a wildlife reserve in southwestern Kenya. It is named after the Maasai people and the Mara River, which divides it. The Masai Mara National Reserve covers an area of 1,510 km² and is approximately 270 km from Nairobi. The terrain of the reserve is primarily grassland and forest with distinctive acacia trees. It is about 1,500-1,700 meters above sea level and receives a moderate amount of rainfall, making it a great habitat for wildlife.

     The Masai Mara is home to over 95 species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles and over 400 species of birds. Apart from the big five - lion, leopard, African elephant, cape buffalo, and rhinoceros, the reserve is also home to cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. The park has the largest population of lions in Kenya and is also an excellent place to spot the elusive leopard. Bird watching is also popular here, especially during the migratory season when thousands of birds' flock to the reserve.

     The best time to visit the Masai Mara is during the dry season from June to October when the weather is pleasant, and the animals are easy to spot. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and the park can get crowded. The wet season from November to May offers green landscapes and fewer tourists but spotting wildlife can be challenging due to the thick vegetation.

     A visit to the Masai Mara is an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. There are several ways to explore the Masai Mara including guided safari tours, hot air balloon rides, and self-drive safaris. The reserve has a wide range of accommodation options from luxury lodges to budget campsites.

     Generation gaps are often the source of misunderstandings and conflicts between different age groups. This is because each generation has its own set of values, beliefs, and ways of doing things which may not align with those of other generations.

     For example, older generations may value hard work, discipline, and respect for authority, while younger generations may prioritise work-life balance, creativity, and questioning authority. These differences can lead to clashes in the workplace, at home, and in society as a whole.

     One way to bridge the generation gap is through open and respectful communication. Instead of dismissing the ideas and perspectives of other generations, it is important to listen and try to understand where they are coming from. This can help foster empathy and build stronger relationships across generations.

     Another approach is to find common ground and shared experiences. While there may be many differences between generations, there are also likely to be some similarities. By focusing on these similarities, it becomes easier to find areas of agreement and work together towards common goals.

     Finally, it is important to recognise that every generation has something unique to offer. Each generation brings its own strengths, skills, and insights to the table. By embracing these differences and learning from one another, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious society for people of all ages.

     Green living is an ethos that champions the preservation of our planet through sustainable lifestyle choices. It is a conscious decision to tread lightly on the Earth, ensuring that our actions today do not compromise the well-being of future generations.

     At the core of this philosophy is the practice of reducing, reusing, and recycling. By minimising waste, we can significantly lessen our environmental impact. Reducing consumption, reusing items, and recycling materials are simple, yet effective strategies that contribute to a healthier planet.

     Energy efficiency is another critical component of green living. Utilizing energy-saving appliances, switching to LED bulbs, and harnessing renewable energy sources like solar panels are ways to decrease our carbon footprint. These measures not only conserve energy but also promote cleaner air and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

     Water conservation is equally imperative. Installing low-flow showerheads, fixing leaks promptly, and using drought-resistant plants in landscaping are all ways to use water more judiciously. They safeguard our precious water resources and help maintain the natural balance of ecosystems.

     Sustainable transportation is also a vital aspect of green living. Choosing to walk, bike, or use public transport over driving can significantly cut down on pollution and fossil fuel consumption. For those who must drive, opting for electric or hybrid vehicles is a greener alternative.

     Supporting local and organic agriculture is another way to live green. It reduces the carbon emissions associated with long-distance food transport and supports farming practices that are kinder to the Earth.

     In essence, green living is about making choices that are ecologically responsible. It is about being mindful of our consumption and its effects on the environment. By embracing these principles, we can contribute to a sustainable future and a healthier planet for all.

     Denmark is one of the most bicycle-friendly countries in the world. Approximately 40 percent of the people in its capital, Copenhagen, commute to school or work by bicycle.

     Why are bikes so popular in Denmark? First of all, the government is worried about pollution. Cars pollute the air, and the number of cars is growing. Denmark imposes a very high tax on cars because the government wants more people to ride bikes instead. Another reason for the popularity of bicycles is that Denmark is a very flat country. The highest place in the country is only 557 feet (170 m), so it is a very easy place to ride a bike. Moreover, in Copenhagen, there are also special lanes just for cyclists. Cars must stop when a bike is crossing the road. Some places have special traffic lights to tell drivers that bikes are going to cross the road.

     About 20 percent of people in nearby towns commute to Copenhagen on their bikes. But Denmark wants to double this number. The government is planning to build bicycle "superhighways." These roads will only be for cyclists. Cyclists will have special places on these highways to stop and rest or put air in their tires. With these bicycle superhighways, Copenhagen may become the most bicycle-friendly city in the world. Many other cities, such as New York, London, and Guangzhou are thinking about copying this plan. In fact, there is a new word for making a city more bicycle-friendly - "Copenhagenization."

(Source: Select readings)

     The word ecotourism is a combination of ecology and tourism. The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of the local people." This means that walking through a rain forest isn't really ecotourism unless it benefits the area, perhaps by providing jobs to the local residents or by conserving the wildlife. Countries are slowly recognising that it is possible to make money while preserving their natural resources.

     Unfortunately, people in the industry sometimes exploit the "ecotourism" label in their drive for profit. This brand of ecotourism isn't always conducted in the most responsible way, and may damage the environment it seeks to protect. One concern is that the overwhelming number of visitors to these natural places (especially in the high season) has a negative effect on the ecosystem. Ecotourists tend to seek out places with the rarest animals and plants; even if they take care not to disturb the environment, their presence could put pressure on the frailest of living things. Another problem is the interaction between animals and humans. At one national park in Costa Rica, wild monkeys feed on garbage left by the visitors and even aggressively steal food from tourists.

     While tourists can have a negative impact on ecosystems, the same areas might have been totally destroyed by industries such as farming, logging, or mining if the ecotourism industry did not exist. Tour guides can also be educators who train people to love and care for the environment. By visiting these beautiful rain forests and seeing rare animals, visitors get a sense of their value and will hopefully take these lessons back with them to their home countries.

(Source: Active skills for reading)