Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-169

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 (21) __________ 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, transferring 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. In contrast, they do not carry any significant structural load. These walls are usually made up of 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 would collapse. A contractor once explained (22) __________ to install a steel beam before taking down such a wall. As (23) __________, 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 (24) __________ safety and longevity of any building, guaranteeing it stands strong for years to come.

Everywhere we look, from glossy magazines to social media, a blueprint for "beautiful" exists. Global media and the multi-billion-dollar beauty industry promote a narrow set of standards, creating immense pressure to conform. This constant barrage of images raises a fundamental question: are we all unconsciously chasing the same elusive look, feeling compelled to fit a mold rather than celebrating our unique selves? [I]

[II] For teenagers, this pressure can feel particularly intense. As you navigate forming your own identity and sense of style, you're constantly exposed to external messages from celebrities, influencers, and advertisements. This contributes to a powerful narrative about what’s desirable, leading to questions about your own appearance. The desire to fit in and be accepted by peers can heavily influence your choices, sometimes pushing you towards looks that might not genuinely reflect your authentic self, or even compromise your well-being. [III]

In Vietnam, this global trend has a particularly strong local flavor, significantly influenced by the immense popularity of Korean culture. K-pop idols and K-drama stars are significant trendsetters, establishing beauty ideals that resonate deeply with young Vietnamese people. Concepts like "glass skin"—a complexion so clear and radiant it appears translucent—are widely aspired to. Specific makeup styles, often natural yet meticulously applied, are replicated across the country, with brands like Innisfree becoming household names in pursuit of these desired looks.

[IV] The pursuit of these specific ideals isn't without consequences. Teenagers might find themselves spending significant time and money on products or treatments designed to achieve an externally imposed look. This constant striving for an "ideal" can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-worth if expectations aren't met. When everyone seems to be chasing the same poreless skin, perfect nose, or specific lip shape, it creates an exhausting cycle where individuality is overlooked, making true beauty feel like an unattainable standard.

It’s crucial to remember that beauty is diverse and personal, not a monolithic standard dictated by trends or industries. As you develop your own sense of self, take a moment to critically evaluate where your ideas about beauty truly come from. Challenge the notion that there's only one "perfect" way to look. Embrace your unique features and celebrate what makes you distinct. Ultimately, confidence and self-acceptance are the most powerful forms of beauty. What does "beautiful" truly mean to you, beyond external pressures?