Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-19

Have you ever noticed small, rough bumps suddenly appear on your skin when you feel cold or scared? This is (21) __________ common reaction known as goosebumps. The medical term for this phenomenon is piloerection. It happens involuntarily, meaning you can't consciously control it. When it occurs, the skin on your arms and legs can look similar to that of a plucked goose, which is where the unusual name comes from. This is why we often experience this strange but completely normal bodily process.

The physical mechanism behind goosebumps is fascinating. At the base of each hair follicle are tiny muscles called arrector pili muscles. When the body signals them, these muscles contract or tighten. This action pulls the hair follicle, causing the connected hair to stand up. The contracting muscle also creates a small mound on the skin's surface, which is the 'bump' that we see and feel. This process happens across many hair follicles at the same time, creating the distinct appearance of goosebumps.

One of the primary triggers for goosebumps is cold temperature. When your body detects a drop in temperature, it tries to preserve heat. The arrector pili muscles contract and make the hairs stand on end. For our furry ancestors, this was very effective. The raised hairs would trap a layer of air close to the skin (22) __________ provide insulation against the cold. While humans don't have enough body hair for this to make a big difference anymore, the reflex remains a key part of our biology.

Goosebumps don't just appear because of the cold; strong emotions are another major cause. Feelings like fear, excitement, or even awe can trigger the same response. This is an evolutionary 'fight or flight' reaction. By making their hair stand up, our ancestors appeared larger and more intimidating to potential predators. This explains why you might finish watching a scary movie covered in goosebumps. One researcher explained that our bodies (23) __________ the same way to intense emotions as they did to ancient threats.

So, while this reaction may not serve a critical survival purpose for modern humans, it's a direct link to our evolutionary past. Getting goosebumps is not something that happens (24) __________; it is a predictable response to specific physical and emotional stimuli. If humans still had thick fur like our distant ancestors, this reaction would be much more useful for staying warm and looking fearsome. It’s a small, visible reminder of our ancient biological heritage.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated across many East and Southeast Asian cultures, is deeply rooted in ancient harvest traditions. Falling on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, it marks a time of thanksgiving for bountiful harvests and family reunions under the brightest full moon. [I] These autumnal celebrations reflect humanity's age-old connection to agricultural cycles. [II]

In Vietnam, this beloved occasion is known as Tết Trung Thu, or the Children's Festival. Traditionally, it's been a magical night dedicated to youngsters. Children parade through streets holding colorful star-shaped lanterns, their laughter echoing alongside lion dances. Families gather to share simple, traditional mooncakes – Bánh Trung Thu – and seasonal fruits, while adults tell tales of the Moon Lady. It was a time of innocence, community spirit, and pure delight for the youngest, fostering a sense of wonder and belonging under the moonlit sky. [III]

However, like many ancient traditions globally, Tết Trung Thu has undergone significant transformations. This child-centric celebration has noticeably expanded into a major commercial event, exemplified by the mooncake's evolution. From humble, home-baked treats, mooncakes have become elaborate, exquisitely packaged luxury items, often featuring expensive ingredients and artistic designs. These high-end mooncakes are now widely marketed as corporate gifts and tokens of appreciation among adults, often commanding premium prices that reflect their newfound status. [IV]

This commercialization presents a fascinating duality. On one hand, it has boosted economic activity, creating new opportunities for businesses and artisans, and increasing the festival's visibility. Yet, questions arise about what might be lost in this transition. The focus can shift from simple joy and communal spirit, especially for children, towards a more consumerist approach. The original charm of handmade lanterns and shared, modest treats sometimes gets overshadowed by lavish gifts, potentially making the festival less accessible or authentic for some families.

For teenagers celebrating Tết Trung Thu, these changes might feel particularly noticeable. The festival remembered from childhood – with simple lanterns and playful lion dances – now seems different, perhaps more about elegant packaging and adult exchanges. This evolution prompts reflection on how traditions adapt. While festivals must evolve to remain relevant, it encourages considering the balance between embracing new facets and preserving the cherished cultural essence that made these celebrations so special, ensuring future generations experience their original magic.