Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-177

Hibernation is a remarkable survival strategy that some animals use to get through the harsh winter months. It's often described as a deep sleep, but it's a much more complex biological process. Animals like bears, groundhogs, and some bats enter this state to avoid periods of cold weather and food shortages. This dormant state allows them to survive until conditions improve.

The main reason for hibernation is the lack of available food during winter, a period when plants die back and insects disappear. To survive, animals must find a way to make their energy reserves last. They do this through hibernation, a special process that helps them (21) __________ energy. So, instead of searching for food that isn't there, they find a safe place, like a cave or a burrow, to rest.

During hibernation, an animal's body undergoes incredible changes. Its metabolism, the process that converts food into energy, slows down dramatically. The heart rate and breathing become very slow and shallow. Body temperature also drops significantly. Because of these changes, very little energy is needed to keep the animal alive. All the necessary power (22) __________ from the body fat the animal stored during the autumn.

This state of deep inactivity can last for several weeks or even months. Hibernating animals don't usually sleep continuously (23) __________ the spring. They often wake up for short periods to eat stored food or to excrete waste before going back to sleep. The main effect of this process is to minimize energy use, which is crucial for survival when external resources are unavailable.

(24) __________, not all animals that are inactive in winter are true hibernators. Some, like squirrels, enter a lighter state of sleep called torpor and wake up frequently. True hibernation is a profound physiological change that is different from normal sleep. It is a powerful adaptation that shows how resilient wildlife can be in the face of environmental challenges.

Many students, especially around 14 or 15, often feel overwhelmed by schoolwork and wonder if there's even time for anything else. The thought of joining a club or a sports team might seem like a burden on precious study hours. However, extracurricular activities are far more than just leisure pursuits; they are powerful tools for personal growth, skill development, and even future success. While academics remain crucial, what you do outside the classroom can be just as significant in shaping who you become and where you're headed. [I]

In today's competitive world, universities and future employers increasingly seek candidates offering more than just impressive grades. They look for well-rounded individuals with commitment, initiative, and diverse skills. Participating in clubs, sports, or artistic groups hones essential qualities like teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication. [II] Whether collaborating on a science project, strategizing on a sports field, or organizing a school event, these experiences build practical skills highly valued in any academic or professional environment.

[III] In Vietnam, there's a strong tradition of student-led initiatives that exemplify this, such as the well-known "Mùa Hè Xanh" (Green Summer) volunteer campaigns. These large-scale programs, where students dedicate their summer to community service in rural areas, showcase how involvement beyond the classroom can foster social responsibility, empathy, and a deep understanding of societal needs. They enrich participants and contribute positively to national development.

You might be thinking that dedicating time to a club means sacrificing study hours, but surprisingly, the opposite can be true. Managing your time between studies and extracurriculars actually strengthens organizational skills and can lead to better focus during study sessions. Furthermore, these activities offer a vital outlet for stress relief and creativity, preventing burnout. Beyond skill development, joining a club is an excellent way to meet new people, build lasting friendships with shared interests, and expand your social network, creating a supportive community. [IV]

Ultimately, embracing extracurricular activities is an investment in yourself and your future. They provide unique experiences that can significantly boost your university applications, helping you stand out. More importantly, they help you discover passions, build confidence, and develop a comprehensive skill set that prepares you for higher education, a career, and life itself. So, don't view them as distractions; instead, see them as opportunities to explore, grow, and build a foundation for a successful journey.