Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-58

Before modern electricity, people used to find clever ways to use nature's power. In many parts of the world, especially in Europe, windmills were an (35) __________ part of daily life. These structures were not just beautiful landmarks; they were functional machines. They were typically built on hills or in open fields where the wind was strong and reliable, ensuring they could operate effectively.

A traditional windmill worked using a simple but effective principle. The wind pushed against large sails, causing them to rotate. This rotation turned a main shaft inside the windmill. This shaft was connected to different kinds of machinery, allowing the windmill to (36) __________ a specific task. The design was often passed down through generations of builders.

The most common job for a windmill was grinding grain. Farmers used to bring sacks of wheat or corn to the local mill. Inside, the windmill's power turned two large, heavy stones that crushed the grain into flour. (37) __________ was a vital service that provided the basic ingredient for bread, a key food source for many communities.

Besides grinding grain, windmills were used for other important jobs. In countries like the Netherlands, they (38) __________ be used to pump water out of low-lying land. This process, known as land reclamation, was perhaps the (39) __________ famous use of Dutch windmills. It allowed people to turn marshland into (40) __________ farmland, protecting their homes from floods.

The use of windmills started to decline with the arrival of steam and electric power during the Industrial Revolution. (41) __________ had people seen such a rapid change in technology. (42) __________, many old windmills are preserved today as historical monuments, reminding us of a time when humanity worked in close partnership with nature.

When you see someone dressed as your favorite anime hero or video game character at a festival, you are witnessing cosplay. Short for 'costume play,' this hobby has exploded in popularity worldwide, becoming a vibrant part of youth culture in many countries, including Vietnam. Events at venues like the Youth Cultural House in Ho Chi Minh City draw large crowds, eager to see impressive creations. However, cosplay is far more than simply putting on a costume; it is a complex and demanding performance art that requires a deep blend of creativity, skill, and passion.

At the heart of great cosplay is craftsmanship. Bringing a fictional character to life involves a wide array of skills. Many cosplayers spend hundreds of hours designing and creating their outfits from scratch. This process can involve sewing complex garments, crafting armor from materials like foam and plastic, and even using 3D printing for detailed props. Beyond the costume itself, achieving a character's look requires meticulous makeup and hairstyling, which can take hours to apply. This dedication to accuracy and detail is what separates a simple costume from a true cosplay masterpiece.

Furthermore, cosplay extends beyond the visual. It is also about performance. A successful cosplayer doesn't just look like the character; they act like them, adopting their poses, mannerisms, and personality. This theatrical element is crucial for truly embodying the character and making them believable to an audience. The global cosplay community, especially at major conventions like Comic-Con, celebrates this performance aspect. In this supportive environment, it provides a space for individuals to share techniques, offer encouragement, and build friendships based on a shared passion for their chosen characters.

The rise of social media has significantly amplified cosplay's reach and influence. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok allow cosplayers to share their work with a global audience, gaining recognition and inspiring others. This digital stage has created a new cause-and-effect dynamic: the more high-quality cosplay is shared online, the more newcomers are drawn to the hobby, which in turn pushes the standards of creativity and craftsmanship even higher. This cycle has helped transform cosplay from a niche hobby into a mainstream cultural phenomenon.

In conclusion, cosplay is not merely about wearing a costume. It is a multifaceted art form that demands technical skill in craftsmanship, artistic talent in performance, and a strong sense of community. For teenagers, it offers a powerful avenue for self-expression, allowing them to connect with their favorite stories and characters in a uniquely creative and personal way. It celebrates dedication and transforms imagination into a tangible reality.