Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-162

(35) __________ the 1990s, before smartphones were common, teenagers primarily communicated over long distances using landline telephones and the relatively new system of email. While email was a major step forward, it lacked immediacy. A person would write a message, send it, and then have to wait, sometimes for hours or even a day, for a response. Communication was not in real-time.

Then, a new technology called Instant Messaging, or IM, began to appear. Programs like ICQ and AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) became popular. The (36) __________ was profound, as these services allowed for text-based conversations that happened in the moment. This new form of communication quickly (37) __________ how young people interacted, making it faster and easier to chat with friends after school.

One of the most revolutionary features of IM was the 'buddy list,' a feature (38) __________ allowed users to see when their friends were online and available to talk. Unlike email, you knew if the person was there to reply immediately. This made conversations feel more (39) __________ and alive. Users could type short messages back and forth, creating a flowing dialogue similar to a real-life conversation.

The impact on social life was significant. Instead of waiting for an email, a person could (40) __________ a message and receive a reply within seconds. It changed the pace of friendship and planning. While not everyone had internet access at home, (41) __________ teenagers used school or library computers to chat with friends, making IM a central part of their daily social routines.

(42) __________, this new speed came with new social pressures. The expectation to reply instantly grew, and seeing a friend online who was not responding could cause anxiety. Despite this, IM paved the way for the modern messaging apps we use today, fundamentally changing our expectations for digital communication forever.

Have you ever felt like you were the only person in your school who was passionate about a niche hobby, like collecting vintage stamps or writing poetry? In the past, finding friends who shared your specific interests often depended on luck and location. Today, the internet has changed everything. The concept of a ‘tribe’ – a group of people you connect with deeply – is no longer limited by geography. Online groups, especially popular on platforms like Facebook in Vietnam, allow us to find our tribe from all corners of the world.

The primary benefit of these digital communities is the powerful sense of belonging they provide. For teenagers, this can be crucial for self-esteem. Whether it’s a group for fans of a particular V-pop artist or a ‘Hội Thích Trồng Cây’ (Plant Lovers Association), these spaces allow members to share their passion without fear of judgment. They are environments where knowledge is exchanged freely, and members can help each other to learn and nurture their skills. This supportive atmosphere can be incredibly encouraging for personal growth.

Furthermore, online groups break down geographical barriers, connecting you with people from different cultures and backgrounds. A Vietnamese gamer can strategize with a teammate in Brazil, while a student practicing English can find conversation partners in the UK. Many of these groups function as informal learning environments. Through discussions and collaborative projects, they help members develop valuable skills like teamwork, digital communication, and critical negotiation. These are abilities that are highly beneficial both in school and in future careers.

However, these online tribes are not without their potential downsides. One significant risk is the creation of 'echo chambers'. This happens when a group is so focused on a single viewpoint that it filters out all opposing ideas. Being inside such a bubble reinforces existing beliefs and makes it difficult to consider different perspectives, potentially leading to narrow-mindedness. Additionally, misinformation can spread like wildfire within these closed networks, as members may be quick to trust information shared by people they consider part of their tribe, without verifying it first.

In conclusion, online groups are a double-edged sword. They offer incredible opportunities for connection, support, and learning that were once unimaginable. Yet, they also carry risks like echo chambers and the rapid spread of false information. The key for any young person navigating this digital world is to participate with awareness. By engaging critically and seeking diverse viewpoints, you can enjoy the immense benefits of your online tribe while skillfully avoiding its potential pitfalls.