The Secrets of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are among the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth,
often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea." They host an incredible
array of marine life, including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and more. Despite
their beauty and importance, these fragile ecosystems face numerous
threats, many of which are caused by human activities.

Corals are actually tiny animals called polyps that belong to the phylum
Cnidaria. These polyps form colonies, building massive calcium carbonate
structures over time. What many people find extraordinary is that coral reefs
cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support around 25% of all marine
species.

Coral reefs not only provide habitat for marine creatures but also offer vital
benefits to humans. They protect coastlines from erosion by acting as
natural barriers against storm surges and waves. Additionally, they
contribute to the global economy through tourism and fishing. Coral reefs
also hold great potential for medical advancements, as scientists
study their organisms to develop treatments for diseases such as cancer
and arthritis.

However, coral reefs are under threat from phenomena like coral bleaching.
This occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae that live in their tissues,
causing them to turn white. Algae provide corals with much of their energy
through photosynthesis, so bleaching often results in coral death. Rising sea
temperatures, pollution, and overfishing are some of the primary causes of
this distressing phenomenon.

Another significant issue is ocean acidification, which occurs when excess

carbon dioxide dissolves into seawater. This process lowers the pH of the
water, making it harder for corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons.
Without urgent intervention, coral reefs could face extinction within decades.

Just as forests on land require careful management to prevent deforestation,

coral reefs need conservation efforts to survive. Governments, scientists,
and local communities must work together to reduce carbon emissions,
establish marine protected areas, and promote sustainable fishing
practices, as well as establish marine protected areas. Public awareness
campaigns can also encourage responsible tourism, ensuring that future
generations will have the chance to marvel at the wonders of these
underwater ecosystems.

Questions 11-20

11. The word "host" in the first paragraph is closest in meaning to _________.
A. produce
B. accommodate
C. threaten
D. remove

12. The author’s main point is _________.

A. to describe the ecological importance and threats to coral reefs.

B. to explain how coral reefs protect human populations.
C. to outline the process of coral bleaching in detail.
D. to emphasize the role of coral reefs in scientific research.

13. The author implies that coral reefs are unique in that _________.

A. they are made entirely of algae.

B. they cover a vast portion of the ocean floor.
C. they support a disproportionate amount of marine biodiversity.
D. they can recover quickly from environmental damage.

14. The word "barriers" in the third paragraph is closest in meaning to

_________.

A. obstacles chướng ngại

B. shelters
C. divisions
D. filters

15. The word "their" in the third paragraph refers to _________.

A. humans'
B. corals'
C. coastlines'
D. organisms'

16. The phrase "turn white" in the fourth paragraph refers to _________.

A. the process of coral skeleton formation

B. the impact of algae on coral coloration
C. the bleaching effect caused by stress factors
D. the natural color of healthy corals

17. The author suggests that coral bleaching _________.

A. is a reversible process if addressed quickly

B. occurs naturally without human interference
C. results in the immediate death of all corals
D. is unrelated to climate change

18. The author mentions carbon dioxide to illustrate _________.

A. the main reason that caused coral reef degradation

B. the primary culprit of ocean acidification
C. the economic impact of coral reef tourism
D. the biodiversity of coral reef ecosystems

19. The term "marine protected areas" in the last paragraph refers to
_________.

A. zones where fishing is banned permanently

B. regions designated for research on marine species
C. areas where human activities are regulated to conserve marine
life
D. locations that are inaccessible to tourists

20. The author concludes that _________.

A. conservation efforts are futile in protecting coral reefs

B. humans are the primary reason for coral reef destruction
C. awareness and cooperation are essential to saving coral reefs
D. coral reefs are more resilient than most ecosystems

In the heart of Asia, a long-running political conflict between two neighboring

countries has once again made international headlines. Tensions between
Country X and Country Y have escalated in recent months, causing concern
among global leaders and prompting calls for diplomatic intervention.
Despite numerous peace talks and ceasefire agreements, the situation
remains tense, with both nations accusing each other of violating
international laws and undermining regional stability.

The roots of this conflict date back several decades to territorial disputes
over land that both countries claim as their own. The area in question is rich
in natural resources, including valuable minerals and water sources, making
it a highly contested region. Over the years, several attempts have been
made to mediate the dispute, but a lasting solution has yet to be found. In
recent years, both sides have ramped up military activity in the region,
heightening fears of a potential conflict that could have far-reaching
consequences for neighboring countries and the international community.
As international organizations and peacekeeping forces prepare for possible
interventions, many experts warn that the situation may be
more complicated than it appears. The involvement of external
powers, who have their own strategic interests in the region, could
further fuel the conflict and make it even more difficult to resolve.
Diplomatic talks, while crucial, may be insufficient if both sides are unwilling
to compromise and prioritize peace over territorial ambitions.

Moreover, some analysts argue that the ongoing tension is not only a result
of territorial disputes but also stems from broader political and economic
factors. Both countries are vying for influence in the region, with each side
seeking to assert its dominance in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
In this context, the conflict becomes a symbol of the larger power struggle
taking place, and the stakes are much higher than a simple territorial
dispute.

Despite the dire situation, there is hope that a diplomatic solution can still be
reached. In recent weeks, both sides have agreed to engage in talks
under the mediation of international peacekeepers, signaling a
potential willingness to de-escalate the situation. However, the path
to peace remains uncertain, and much will depend on the
commitment of both nations to find common ground and work
together for the greater good.

21. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase "causing concern among global
leaders" mean?

A. It is attracting attention from world leaders.

B. It is making world leaders angry.
C. It is preventing world leaders from making decisions.
D. It is leading to economic collapse worldwide.

22. What is the main reason for the political conflict between Country X and
Country Y?

A. A long-standing rivalry based on historical issues

B. A disagreement over international diplomatic alliances
C. Economic differences that affect global trade
D. Disputes over valuable land and natural resources

23. What is the author’s purpose in mentioning the "territorial disputes over
land" in paragraph 2?

A. To highlight the importance of the region’s natural resources

B. To explain why the two countries are unwilling to compromise
C. To show that the conflict has been going on for a very long time
D. To demonstrate the complexity of the conflict’s historical background

24. What can the word "complicated" in line 16 be best replaced by?

A. Simple
B. Unclear
C. Challenging
D. Unlikely

25. According to paragraph 3, what makes the conflict more difficult to

resolve?

A. The interference of external powers with their own agendas

B. The desire of both countries to negotiate peace
C. The willingness of both sides to compromise
D. The inability of the international community to intervene

26. Which of the following best describes the "broader political and
economic factors" mentioned in paragraph 4?

A. A competition for political and economic influence between the

two countries
B. The desire to protect valuable land from foreign investment
C. The need for both countries to increase their military power
D. The struggle to maintain global trade relations

27. In which space (marked A, B, C, and D in the passage) will the following
sentence fit?
The military build-up in the region has made neighboring countries
increasingly nervous.

A. A
B. B
C. C
D. D

28. According to paragraph 5, what does the author imply about the ongoing
peace talks?

A. They are unlikely to lead to a long-lasting resolution.

B. They represent a positive step toward peace, despite the
challenges.
C. They are not important to the future of the two countries.
D. They are being sabotaged by external forces.
29. Which of the following best describes the tone of the author in this
passage?

A. Hopeful
B. Pessimistic
C. Critical
D. Neutral

30. Which of the following could best describe the message that the author
wants to convey to readers?

A. The international community must take action to stop the conflict.

B. Resolving the territorial dispute will require more than just military
intervention.
C. Peace is unlikely unless both countries agree to external mediation.
D. The situation can only be solved through peaceful negotiations
and compromises.

WRITING:The Internet is widespread nowadays, it let people work at home instead of in their
office. What are the benefits and drawbacks of working at home to employees and
employers?