Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-160

In any building, from a small house to a huge skyscraper, walls do more than just divide rooms. Some walls are essential for the building's stability and are a key part of its (35) __________ skeleton. These are known as load-bearing walls. Their main job is to support the weight from the structure above, including the roof and upper floors.

If a wall is load-bearing, it actively works to hold up the building. It carries the heavy load from the floors and roof, (36) __________ this weight safely down to the foundation. This continuous path of support is crucial for preventing the building from collapsing. Therefore, these walls are often thicker and made from stronger materials than other walls in the house.

Non-load-bearing walls, also known as partition walls, serve a different purpose. They are primarily used to separate spaces and create individual rooms. (37) __________, they do not carry any significant structural load. These walls are usually (38) __________ lighter materials like drywall and can often be removed without affecting the building's overall integrity.

Understanding the difference is critical during renovations. If you removed a load-bearing wall without adding proper support, the structure above it (39) __________. A contractor once explained (40) __________ to install a steel beam before taking down such a wall. As (41) __________, it is always best to consult a professional engineer before making any changes. They can identify which walls are which and ensure any modifications are done safely.

To identify a load-bearing wall, you might look for clues like its position relative to the floors above it or its thickness. Ultimately, knowing which walls carry weight is fundamental knowledge in architecture and construction. It ensures (42) __________ safety and longevity of any building, guaranteeing it stands strong for years to come.

Imagine this: your teacher hands back an essay you worked hard on, and it's covered in red ink. Your first feeling might be disappointment or even anger. This reaction is completely normal. Receiving criticism, whether from a teacher, a parent, or a friend, can feel like a personal attack. However, learning to manage our emotional response to feedback is one of the most important skills for personal growth. The challenge isn't the feedback itself, but how we choose to interpret and use it.

So, why does criticism sting so much? The answer lies in our psychology. Our brain is wired to protect our sense of self. When someone points out a mistake, our ego can perceive it as a threat, triggering a 'fight-or-flight' response similar to when we face physical danger. This emotional reaction can make it difficult to listen objectively. The goal is to learn to appreciate constructive criticism—feedback that is specific, helpful, and aimed at helping you improve, rather than just pointing out faults without guidance.

The first and most crucial step in handling feedback is to pause. Instead of reacting immediately with defensiveness, take a deep breath and just listen. Try to separate the message from the messenger. Even if the feedback is delivered poorly, there might be a valuable lesson hidden within it. In many cultures, including in Vietnam, people may avoid direct confrontation to maintain harmony, so feedback can sometimes be given in an indirect or awkward way. Understanding this cultural context can help you focus on the substance of the comment, not the style of its delivery.

Once you have listened, the next step is to engage with the feedback. A great strategy is to ask clarifying questions. Saying something like, “Could you give me an example of what you mean?” or “What would you suggest I do differently next time?” shows that you are taking the feedback seriously and are open to improvement. This approach transforms the situation from a confrontation into a collaboration. You begin to see the feedback not as a judgment of your worth, but as a valuable tool that provides a roadmap for your development.

Ultimately, mastering the art of receiving criticism builds resilience and accelerates personal growth. It allows you to learn faster, improve your skills, and build stronger, more honest relationships. Viewing feedback as a gift, rather than an insult, is a powerful mindset shift. It's a journey that requires practice, but by controlling your initial reactions and focusing on the opportunity to learn, you turn every piece of advice into a stepping stone towards becoming a better version of yourself.