Đề luyện Reading Unit 3 (Fun time) - Sách COMPLETE PET

Reading passage 1 (1-10): The Joy of Urban Gardening

In many big cities, where space is limited and life can be stressful, a surprising number of people have decided to take up urban gardening. This isn't about having a huge garden with trees and a lawn; instead, it involves growing plants in small spaces like balconies, windowsills, or even on rooftops. For many city dwellers, this hobby has turned into a wonderful way to connect with nature without leaving the urban environment. They enjoy watching their own vegetables and flowers grow from tiny seeds. It seems impossible at first, but with a little patience, anyone can learn to do it.

The benefits of urban gardening are numerous. Firstly, it provides fresh and healthy food. People who grow their own vegetables know exactly what they are eating, avoiding harmful chemicals that are often used in commercial farming. Secondly, it is a great form of gentle exercise. Activities like watering plants, digging soil, and carrying pots help people stay active. Many find it much more enjoyable than going to a crowded gym. It's also an incredibly relaxing activity. Focusing on the simple tasks of gardening helps to reduce stress and anxiety, making people feel calmer and happier.

Furthermore, urban gardening can also be a social activity. In some neighbourhoods, residents have started community gardens where they work together. They share tips, help each other with their plants, and often become good friends. These gardens make the community look more beautiful and create a stronger bond among neighbours. It’s quite informal and everyone is welcome to join in. They have discovered that planting a seed is not just about growing a plant; it's about growing a community as well. It's certainly not an unusual hobby anymore; it's a growing movement.

Reading passage 2 (11-20): A Journey into Virtual Reality

In the past, playing computer games was often a simple activity. Today, however, technology has advanced so much that players can enter completely new worlds through virtual reality, or VR. VR is not just about watching a screen; it’s about feeling like you are actually inside the game. Users wear a special headset that covers their eyes and ears, blocking out the real world and showing them a 3D, computer-generated environment. They can look around, walk, and interact with objects in this virtual world. For many, it's an unbelievable experience that feels more like a dream than a game.

Many people fancy trying VR because it offers adventures that are impossible in real life. You can explore the deepest parts of the ocean, fly over mountains, or even travel to distant planets, all from the comfort of your living room. Game developers are constantly creating new experiences, from exciting action games to peaceful puzzles. However, some people avoid using VR for too long. They worry that spending too much time in a virtual world might make them feel disconnected from reality. It is also quite an expensive hobby to get into, as the headsets and powerful computers needed can cost a lot of money.

Despite the cost, VR is becoming more popular, not just for gaming, but for other purposes too. For example, some schools have started using VR to take students on virtual field trips to historical places. Doctors also use it to practise difficult surgeries in a safe environment. It seems that we are only at the beginning of discovering what VR can do. While some find it an unhealthy way to spend time, others see it as a powerful tool for entertainment, education, and training. The future of this technology promises even more amazing developments.

Reading passage 3 (21-30): The Thrill of Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is an adventure sport that has gained immense popularity over the years. It's a physically and mentally demanding activity where participants climb up, down, or across natural rock formations or artificial rock walls. Unlike some other sports, rock climbing is not just about physical strength; it also requires problem-solving skills, flexibility, and a great deal of concentration. Climbers must plan their route, decide where to place their hands and feet, and manage their energy effectively. Many people who try it for the first time are surprised by how much thinking is involved. They soon learn that a successful climb is like solving a complex puzzle on a vertical surface.

Safety is the most important aspect of rock climbing. It is an activity with obvious risks, so using the correct safety equipment is essential. This includes a helmet, a harness, and ropes. It is also highly recommended that beginners start at an indoor climbing gym under the guidance of an experienced instructor. These gyms provide a controlled environment where people can practise climbing safely. The instructor teaches them how to use the equipment correctly and basic climbing techniques. It is impolite and dangerous to ignore the safety rules, as it puts both the climber and others at risk. No one should ever attempt to climb alone without proper training.

Many climbers say that the feeling of reaching the top is what makes them go on. It's a huge personal achievement that builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment. The sport also allows people to connect with nature and visit some of the most beautiful places in the world. However, it is not for everyone. There are times when a climb is incredibly difficult, and some people feel like giving up. But for those who persist, the rewards are great. They develop not only physical strength but also mental toughness, learning to stay calm under pressure and trust their own abilities.

Reading passage 4 (31-40): The Quiet Art of Birdwatching

Birdwatching, or 'birding' as it is sometimes called, is a hobby that involves observing birds in their natural habitat. For many, it is a peaceful and rewarding way to spend their free time. Unlike more active hobbies, birdwatching requires patience and quietness. The goal is to identify different species of birds by their appearance, songs, and behaviours. Many people start this hobby in their own backyards, simply noticing the birds that visit their gardens. Later, they might decide to travel to forests, wetlands, or coastal areas to see more unusual species. It's a hobby that you can do alone or with a group, but it always involves a deep appreciation for nature.

To get started, you don't need much. The most essential equipment is a pair of binoculars to see birds that are far away and a field guide, which is a book with pictures and descriptions of birds to help with identification. Some birdwatchers also carry a notebook to write down their observations. They must remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that blends in with the environment, as bright colours can scare the birds away. It's incorrect to think that birdwatching is a boring hobby; for those who love it, the thrill of spotting a rare bird is incredibly exciting. It's a continuous learning process.

One of the greatest joys of birdwatching is the element of surprise. You never know what you might see when you set off for a walk. It could be a colourful kingfisher by a river or a majestic eagle soaring high in the sky. This hobby also makes you more aware of the environment and the changing seasons. Birdwatchers notice the arrival of migratory birds in spring and their departure in autumn. This connection to the natural world is something many people find very calming. They look forward to their birdwatching trips as a way to escape the noise and pressures of daily life. It's a simple pleasure that brings a lot of happiness.

Reading passage 5 (41-50): My Experience with a Language Exchange Club

When I moved to a new city, I wanted to improve my Spanish and meet new people. A friend suggested joining a language exchange club, and I decided to try it. The club meets every Wednesday evening at a local café. The idea is simple: native English speakers who are learning Spanish meet with native Spanish speakers who are learning English. For the first half of the evening, we only speak Spanish, and for the second half, we switch to English. This way, everyone gets to practise the language they are learning. It's a very effective and enjoyable way to improve your speaking skills.

At first, I felt a bit nervous. I was worried I would make too many mistakes or that I wouldn't understand anyone. My first few weeks were challenging, and I avoided speaking too much. However, the atmosphere was so friendly and informal that I soon started to feel more comfortable. Nobody minds if you make mistakes; in fact, people are always happy to help you. It's much better than just learning from a textbook because you learn the natural way people really talk. I quickly learned a lot of new vocabulary and slang that you wouldn't find in a formal lesson. It's important to be patient with yourself and others.

Now, I look forward to our Wednesday meetings. I have made some great friends from different countries and have learned so much about their cultures. We don't just talk about grammar; we share stories, jokes, and talk about our daily lives. Sometimes, we even organise other activities, like going to see a Spanish film or having a picnic. The club has helped me to catch up with my language goals much faster than I expected. For anyone who wants to learn a language, I would definitely recommend finding a club like this. It turns the hard work of learning into a fun, social activity.