Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-65

Today, video games are a global industry, but it all started with one simple idea. In the late 1960s, a television engineer named Ralph Baer pioneered a new form of entertainment. He envisioned a device that could connect to a standard television set to play games. His prototype, famously known as the 'Brown Box,' was the first-ever home video game console. Baer, often called the 'Father of Video Games,' demonstrated a simple game of table tennis on his invention, changing entertainment forever.

The 'Brown Box' was a revolutionary concept. It used simple electronic circuits to create dots of light that players could control on the television screen. The system didn't have sound or complex graphics like modern consoles. However, it was the foundation for everything that followed. Baer's team worked hard to refine the prototype, hoping a company would see its potential and bring it to the public.

In 1971, the electronics company Magnavox saw the promise in Baer's invention and agreed to produce it. The following year, the Magnavox Odyssey was released as the first commercially available home video game console. It came with several simple games, and since it couldn't produce color, it included transparent plastic overlays that players placed on their TV screens to create colorful backgrounds. Users enjoyed (21) __________ these basic but innovative games, although the console's popularity didn't immediately take off.

A few years later, a competitor emerged that truly popularized home gaming: Atari. After seeing a demonstration of the Odyssey's table tennis game, Atari created its own version called Pong. A reporter from a popular magazine was very impressed. He later wrote in his article that the new game (22) __________ a huge hit with teenagers. With its iconic sound effects and addictive gameplay, Pong (23) __________ and became a massive success, both in arcades and as a home console.

Despite being overshadowed by Atari, the Magnavox Odyssey holds a critical place in history. It was the machine that proved home video gaming was possible and created a market where none existed before. If Ralph Baer (24) __________ the 'Brown Box' in his workshop, the multi-billion dollar video game industry we know today might have developed very differently, or perhaps much later. His work laid the essential groundwork for all future consoles.

In a world valuing productivity, hobbies are often dismissed as mere pastimes. Yet, psychologists and mental health experts emphasize a vital truth: engaging in "play" or pursuing hobbies is essential, not just for children. For teenagers and adults, these activities are fundamental pillars of good mental health, fostering creativity and providing crucial stress relief. Far from trivial, dedicating time to what you love significantly impacts your overall well-being, helping you navigate daily life with greater resilience. [I]

For students navigating demanding high school schedules, setting aside time for a hobby might seem counterintuitive. However, your brain, like your body, needs active rest and stimulation beyond structured learning. Whether sketching, playing guitar, coding, or exploring board games, these activities offer a vital escape. They allow your mind to decompress, reducing anxiety and preventing burnout, helping you return to studies with renewed focus and energy. [II]

This concept holds particular relevance in Vietnam, with its intense academic focus often leaving little room for non-scholastic endeavors. Yet, a noticeable shift is occurring, especially in urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. A growing appreciation for diverse hobbies is evident in the rise of specialized spaces, from vibrant board game cafes to painting studios. These emerging hubs provide teenagers opportunities to unwind, express themselves, and connect with others outside traditional academic environments. [III]

[IV] They are powerful tools for personal growth, enabling you to develop new skills, hone talents, and discover hidden passions. Creating, solving, or mastering a technique instills a profound sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem. Furthermore, hobbies foster social connections via clubs or online communities, allowing you to meet like-minded individuals and build networks beyond school. These experiences contribute to a well-rounded, fulfilling life.

So, if your schedule feels overwhelming and you're contemplating dropping that art class or musical instrument, reconsider. Making time for a hobby you genuinely love isn't a luxury; it’s a non-negotiable investment in your mental well-being and success. It's a vital way to nourish your spirit, rest your brain, and cultivate a sense of joy and purpose that extends beyond the classroom. Embrace the power of play, for it is through these cherished activities that you not only unwind but also discover more about yourself and thrive.