Ôn luyện Bài Đọc Tiếng Anh Reading Unit 2 - Life A2-B1

Reading Passage 1: The Annual River Box Race (1 - 10)

Every September, the small town of Riverside holds its most famous and perhaps craziest event: the annual River Box Race. The tradition started over fifty years ago by a group of friends who wanted a fun challenge, and it is now more popular than ever, attracting spectators from all over the region. The rules are simple but challenging. Teams of four people must build a 'boat' using only cardboard boxes and tape. No other materials like wood, plastic, or metal are allowed, which makes the construction a real test of creativity. They then have to race for two kilometres down the river, navigating the gentle currents and some small, tricky rapids near the old bridge. The team that crosses the finish line first in their box-boat wins the 'Golden Box' prize, a trophy made of, you guessed it, gold-painted cardboard.

Of course, most boats don't survive the entire journey. Sinking is a very common and expected part of the fun, and the large crowd on the riverbanks loves watching the competitors trying to swim with their wet, falling-apart cardboard. Safety is the top priority for the organizers, so all competitors must wear life jackets, and several rescue boats are always nearby to help anyone in trouble. 

You don't have to be an expert boat builder to enter, but the organizers say you must have a good sense of humour. Winning is great, but as one long-time participant said, "The real prize is hearing hundreds of people laughing and cheering for you, even when your boat is falling apart." Everyone agrees that taking part and making people laugh is the real goal of the day.

Reading Passage 2: A Gymnast's Dedication (11 - 20)

Maria is a young gymnast who dreams of competing in the national championship, and perhaps the Olympics one day. At sixteen, her life is very different from other teenagers. Waking up at 5 a.m. for six days a week to practice is normal for her. "You have to be disciplined," she says, stretching her arms before a long training session. "I enjoy the feeling of getting stronger, but some days it's hard to get out of bed. Being a top athlete isn't just about talent; it's about working hard every single day, even when you don't feel like it. You have to push through the tiredness."

Her dedication is clear to her coach, Mr. Petrov, who has trained gymnasts for twenty years. "Maria is good at listening to advice and is a very fast learner. She hates losing, which makes her very competitive. But she also understands that losing is a part of learning. A loss shows you what you need to work on." Currently, they are working on a new, very difficult routine for the floor exercise which includes several complex jumps. "Perfecting every small movement is her main goal right now. It takes hundreds of repetitions," Mr. Petrov adds. When she isn't training, Maria likes relaxing by reading books or listening to music. She doesn't mind missing parties with friends. "I wouldn't like to do anything else," she says with a smile. "Being in the gym, pushing my limits, that's what I love."

Reading Passage 3: The Rules of Magnet-Ball (21 - 30)

Welcome to Magnet-Ball, a new and exciting team sport! It was invented by students for a university project and is becoming very popular. Understanding the rules is key to enjoying the game. Here is what you need to know before you start playing:

1. Teams and Players: Each team must have five players on the field at all times. You can have up to three substitute players on the bench. Substitutes can only enter the game when the play is stopped by the referee, for example, after a goal or for a penalty. A player who leaves the game can come back later.

2. Objective: The main goal is to throw a special magnetic ball into the other team's 'Polar Goal', which is a large metal ring. Scoring a goal from inside the opponent's half of the field gets your team two points. Scoring from your own half is more difficult and is rewarded with three points. The match lasts for 40 minutes, divided into two 20-minute halves with a 5-minute break in between. The team with more points at the end wins.

3. Gameplay: Players can run with the ball for a maximum of three seconds. You mustn't hold it for longer. After three seconds, you have to pass it to another player or try to score. Players can't push, pull, or hold other players. This is a non-contact sport, and maintaining a safe distance is important. The referee can stop the game for a foul.

4. Equipment and Uniform: You don't have to wear a special uniform, but all players on a team must wear the same colour shirt to avoid confusion. The magnetic ball is soft but has a metal core which allows it to stick to the goal. The referee can give a penalty if the rules are broken.

Reading Passage 4: Online Forum - Is Competition Good for Kids? (31 - 40)

SportyDad: I think competitive sports are great for children. My son plays for a local football team, and it's been a fantastic experience for him. Winning and losing are important lessons for life. He has learned about working in a team, communicating with his teammates, and trying his best even when the team is losing. Last week, they lost a match 2-1, but he was proud of scoring his team's only goal. He was disappointed about losing, but he congratulated the other team. He loves the challenge of playing in matches!

Laura_P: I have to disagree. My daughter hates competitive sports and the pressure that comes with them. She isn't very athletic, and the other kids sometimes laugh when she makes a mistake. It really hurts her confidence and makes her want to avoid all physical activity. I think schools must offer non-competitive activities where the focus is different. Getting exercise and having fun should be the main goal, not winning a medal or being the best. She prefers dancing to playing football because nobody is counting points or judging her performance.

CoachTom: As a coach for over ten years, I see both sides of this argument every day. Competition can be healthy. It pushes kids to improve their skills and learn discipline. However, I often see parents and coaches who put too much pressure on them. They shout from the sidelines and get angry about mistakes. We mustn't forget that they are just children who want to have fun with their friends. We have to create a positive environment and encourage them, win or lose. Enjoying the sport is the most important thing for their long-term development.

Reading Passage 5: Westwood Adventure Club

Tired of the gym? Want to make new friends and get fit in nature?

Join the Westwood Adventure Club!

We are a friendly group for people who love the outdoors and believe that exercising can be an adventure, not a chore. Our club is perfect for anyone looking to escape the city and breathe some fresh air on the weekends. We have been exploring the local area for over five years and know all the best spots.

What we offer:
* Weekly Hikes: Every Saturday morning at 9 a.m., we explore a new trail in the beautiful Westwood Forest. Hikes are usually 5-10 km and are suitable for different fitness levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs. We always finish at a local café for coffee and conversation.
* Monthly Competitions: These are fun and friendly races like map reading, building a shelter, or a photo scavenger hunt. You don't have to be a top athlete to win a prize! The goal is teamwork and having a laugh. Prizes are usually something small and funny.
* Expert Advice: Our experienced leaders can teach you useful skills, such as how to read a map, how to use a compass, and basic first aid. These skills are great for building confidence in the outdoors.

Membership Information:
* You must be over 18 to join. The club has members of all ages, from 20 to 70!
* The annual membership fee is $50. This includes all hikes and competitions.
* Beginners are very welcome! You don't have to have any experience, just a positive attitude and a good pair of walking shoes.

Interested?
Write to us at [email protected] for a registration form. The first hike for new members is free, so you can try it out before you decide to join!