Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-136

The Baobab, often called Africa’s “Tree of Life,” is one of the continent's (35) __________ iconic and unusual trees. Found in the hot, dry savannas, its unique silhouette stands out against the horizon. For centuries, it has been a vital resource for both humans and animals, earning its special nickname because of the essential support it offers in a challenging environment. Its appearance is so distinct that ancient legends often describe it as a tree planted upside-down.

The most noticeable feature of the Baobab is its enormous, swollen trunk. Unlike the trunks of many other trees, the Baobab's is made of a soft, fibrous wood that (36) __________ store up to 120,000 liters of water. This incredible water storage adaptation is (37) __________ for surviving the long periods of drought common to its habitat. This stored water is a lifeline, not just for the tree, but for elephants that sometimes chew the bark to get moisture.

The ability to retain so much water means the tree can flourish for months even when there is no rain. (38) __________ makes the Baobab a powerful symbol of life and endurance in the African landscape. Since rainfall can be unpredictable, this survival mechanism is the primary reason the tree can live for so long. During the dry season, it sheds its leaves to reduce water loss, further conserving its precious resources.

The tree's (39) __________ is remarkable, with some specimens living for more than 2,000 years, making them among the oldest living things on the continent. (40) __________ do these ancient trees grow to a great size, but as they age, their center often becomes naturally hollow. This creates a cavern-like space inside the massive trunk. These hollows are not a sign of sickness but a natural part of the Baobab’s life cycle.

These hollow spaces often (41) __________ shelter for a wide variety of animals, from insects and birds to larger mammals. Humans have also used these hollows for centuries as homes, storage spaces, and even community meeting points. (42) __________, the Baobab is far more than just a strange-looking plant; it is a central pillar of its ecosystem, supporting life in ways that justify its legendary status as the 'Tree of Life'.

In cities across Vietnam, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, the glow of modern shopping centers like Aeon Mall is hard to ignore. For many teenagers, these places represent a world of possibility, filled with the latest smartphones, fashionable clothes, and branded sneakers. Influenced by social media and advertising, the message seems clear: owning more new things is a key to happiness and social status. This powerful force, known as consumerism, encourages the constant acquisition of goods, suggesting that our satisfaction is just one purchase away.

However, a quiet but growing counter-movement offers a different path. This philosophy is called minimalism. It's not about living in an empty room or giving up all modern conveniences. Instead, minimalism is the practice of identifying what is truly essential in one's life and removing everything else. This process of 'decluttering' isn't just for physical objects; it also applies to digital distractions and stressful commitments. Minimalists deliberately choose to live with less, not because they can't afford more, but because they seek a life of purpose and clarity, free from the pressure to always want the next new thing.

The benefits of adopting a minimalist mindset can be significant. By spending less money on non-essential items, individuals can achieve greater financial freedom, allowing them to save for more meaningful goals, like education or travel. With fewer possessions to manage, clean, and organize, people often find they have more time and mental energy for hobbies, relationships, and self-improvement. The minimalist lifestyle, therefore, shifts the focus from material wealth to experiential richness. Proponents argue that it leads to reduced stress and a greater sense of control over one's life.

Of course, embracing minimalism doesn't have to be an extreme, all-or-nothing decision. For a teenager, it might not mean selling all their belongings. It could be as simple as thinking twice before making an impulse purchase, repairing a favorite item instead of replacing it, or unfollowing social media accounts that create feelings of envy. It’s about making conscious choices that align with personal values, rather than following trends. The goal is to curate a life that feels authentic and fulfilling, whether that involves owning ten things or a hundred.

Ultimately, the choice between a consumer-driven life and a minimalist one is personal. One path promises immediate gratification through possessions, while the other offers long-term contentment through simplicity and intention. As young people navigate this complex world, understanding both philosophies is crucial for defining what a 'good life' truly means to them.