Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHTN môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHTN-32

(23) __________. The journey tested my limits in every way imaginable, pushing me both physically and mentally. (24) __________

For many years, students (25) __________ that our solar system had nine planets, and Pluto was the smallest and farthest one. However, in 2006, this all changed. The International Astronomical Union (IAU), the group (26) __________ is responsible for naming astronomical objects, set a new definition for what makes a planet. According to the IAU, a celestial body must meet three criteria to be a full-sized planet: it must orbit the Sun, be large enough for its gravity to make it round, and have 'cleared its neighborhood' of other objects.

Pluto meets the first two rules, but it fails the third. (27) __________, it shares its orbital path with many other large objects in the Kuiper Belt. Because Pluto did not (28) __________ all three conditions, it (29) __________ from a planet to a 'dwarf planet'. This decision was quite controversial, but it helps scientists to better (30) __________ the objects in our vast solar system.

Have you ever looked up at the night sky from a city and wondered where the stars went? The answer is a modern problem: light pollution. This phenomenon, visible as a bright "sky glow" above urban areas, is caused by excessive artificial light. It obscures our view of the cosmos and has significant environmental impacts that we are only now beginning to fully understand.

Major cities worldwide, including developing ones like Ho Chi Minh City, are hotspots. The constant illumination from skyscrapers, streetlights, and giant digital billboards all contribute to the brightness. While intended for safety and commerce, this nonstop lighting creates a luminous blanket over the city, effectively erasing the natural darkness of night and changing the urban environment after sunset.

The consequences extend far beyond a starless sky. Nocturnal animals, from migratory birds to sea turtles, are severely affected. Their life cycles, which depend on natural patterns of light and dark, are disrupted. This artificial light can confuse their navigation, alter their hunting habits, and interfere with reproduction. It is a serious threat to urban ecosystems, showing that our light has a dark side.

Beyond ecological damage, light pollution is also a significant waste of energy and money. The problem, however, is not without solutions. Implementing smarter lighting designs, such as shielded fixtures that direct light downwards and using motion-sensor lights, can make a huge difference. By being more mindful, we can help reclaim the stars and protect the delicate balance of the nighttime world.

Many people believe that 'positive thinking' is the key to achieving goals. The idea is that if you only think happy thoughts, good things will happen. However, this approach can be dangerous because (37) __________.

A more effective strategy is 'realistic optimism'. This mindset combines a positive outlook with a clear understanding of reality. Instead of just hoping for the best, a realistic optimist actively plans for challenges, (38) __________. They acknowledge potential difficulties, (39) __________. Ultimately, this balanced approach is far more powerful, (40) __________.

A. allowing them to create practical solutions in advance

B. which makes them better prepared for setbacks

C. it often encourages us to ignore real problems and obstacles

D. because it grounds your dreams in actionable steps