Read the following announcement and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option t...

Read the following piece of news and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks.

FUEL PRICES GO UP AS MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT GETS WORSE

HANOI – Vietnam’s fuel prices reached a record high on March 7 due to the growing conflict in the Middle East. The crisis, (1)                 has stopped movement on the world’s most important oil shipping route, triggered an immediate price change earlier than the usual schedule. Experts say this market trouble is due to a large (2)         of challenges in global supply and rising transport costs for tankers.

The government warns that the current price shock could have a (3)                  impact on the country's economic recovery and transportation sector. To (4)         how to reduce these effects, the inter-ministry panel is considering several tax relief measures and using the price stabilization fund.

The surge in energy costs is largely due to (5)         damage at major oil facilities after recent drone strikes. Given that Vietnam’s economy is still heavily dependent (6)         imported energy for industrial production, officials are closely monitoring the Strait of Hormuz for any further blockades that could threaten domestic security.

(Adapted from https://e.vnexpress.net)

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer for each blank.

Paper bags, (13)                 , have sparked debate in recent years. While they are biodegradable and easier to recycle than plastic, their production process requires a lot of energy and water. Manufacturing a single paper bag uses four times more energy than a plastic one, often leading to significant chemical pollution. In reality, (14)         , as the massive carbon footprint of production can easily outweigh the benefits of their natural origin.

Proponents of paper bags argue that they are safer for wildlife and easy to recover for recycling. A common misconception, however, is that all paper bags are strong enough to balance out their high environmental cost at the beginning. To address this issue, certain forward-thinking companies (15)

        , aiming to improve the strength and quality of paper products during the manufacturing stage. Still, the fact that paper fibers weaken each time they are recycled remains a major point of contention.

As a result, many consumers are turning to reusable options, such as bags made from cotton or polypropylene bags, as a long-term solution. However, studies show that a cotton bag must be reused over a hundred times to match the environmental impact of a conventional plastic bag. Therefore, (16)         . The environmental impact of packaging remains a complex issue with no simple answer. Viewed through the lens of sustainability, (17)         , thereby fostering a more responsible approach toward our planet’s finite resources.

(Adapted from https://education.nationalgeographic.org/ )

Question 13.

A. which have been widely adopted as an eco-friendly substitute for plastic in many retail stores

B. whose role as an eco-friendly substitute for plastic in many retail stores has been widely debated

C. adopted as an eco-friendly substitute for plastic in many retail stores because of their natural origin

D. that are often considered an eco-friendly substitute for plastic in many retail stores nowadays

Question 14.

A. many people have started to believe that they are the greenest option available for consumers

B. this complexity has led many to question whether they are truly the greenest option available

C. the greenest option available for consumers is to ignore whether they are truly eco-friendly

D. it is not necessary to question whether they are the greenest option available for consumers

Question 15.

A. starting to use recycled materials and non-toxic inks to improve their overall product quality recently

B. have started using recycled materials and non-toxic inks to improve their overall product quality recently

C. who start using recycled materials and non-toxic inks to improve their overall product quality recently

D. to start using recycled materials and non-toxic inks to improve their overall product quality recently

Question 16.

A. simply switching to cotton bags could lead to more significant environmental damage without proper recycling

B. providing free reusable bags in retail stores would be the most effective way to reduce plastic waste

C. maximizing the lifespan of each bag is essential to offset its heavy initial production costs

D. most consumers prefer cotton bags because they believe these products are naturally better for the planet

Question 17.

A. we still struggle with the complex challenge of reusing the bags we already have to protect nature

B. despite the challenge, we have successfully identified the bags we already have as a sustainable choice

C. reusing the bags we already have remains the most effective strategy to mitigate environmental harm

D. the bags we already have are easily reused despite the complex challenge of modern consumer culture

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions.

Impulse buying refers to making unplanned purchases driven by strong emotions and sudden urges rather than necessity. It is a widespread behaviour that many individuals experience at various points in their lives. Understanding the underlying psychological factors and the potential consequences of this phenomenon is essential for maintaining healthy financial habits and emotional well-being.

There are several psychological factors contributing to impulse buying, with intense emotions being one of the primary drivers. Many people use shopping as a way to cope with their feelings, seeking a temporary sense of pleasure or comfort during emotional low points. Social influence also plays a significant role; impulsive purchases often result from peer pressure, which drives individuals to blend in or keep up with social trends. Finally, retailers also play a significant role. Store layouts, product displays, and marketing strategies are carefully designed to entice shoppers to make spontaneous purchases. Furthermore, discounts, flash sales, and limited-time offers can pressure customers to buy more items than they actually need.

The effects of impulse buying on consumers can be quite diverse. On the one hand, a spontaneous purchase can provide immediate satisfaction and a temporary mood boost. However, this excitement is usually short-lived, often followed by feelings of guilt and regret. In more serious cases, frequent overspending leads to financial stress and debt, which have long-term negative consequences on a person’s quality of life.

Managing the urge to buy impulsively requires a combination of self-awareness and practical tactics. To alleviate these negative effects, consumers can apply strategies such as making shopping lists, setting strict budgets, and delaying shopping urges. These methods help individuals reflect on whether a purchase is truly essential, allowing them to make more informed decisions and maintain better control over their finances.

(Adapted from Chinh phục kỳ thi Tiếng Anh tốt nghiệp THPT) Question 18. According to paragraph 2, which of the following is NOT TRUE about the causes of impulse buying?

A. Limited-time offers can make people feel more comfortable about making instant decisions.

B. Impulse buying can provide comfort to people when they are dealing with negative emotions.

C. People make impulse purchases to keep up with their friends and family members.

D. Retailers employ strategies to promote impulse buying, such as store layouts and promotions.

Question 19. The phrase "blend in" in paragraph 2 is CLOSEST in meaning to         .

A. check in
B. fit in
C. get in
D. fill in

Question 20. Which of the following is the best paraphrase for the underlined sentence in paragraph 2?

A. Retailers focus on store layouts and marketing to prevent customers from buying items they do not need.

B. The way stores are arranged and marketed is intended to attract customers into buying things without planning.

C. Spontaneous purchases are impossible to make because of the way stores and product displays are organized.

D. Marketing strategies are only successful when shoppers refuse to be influenced by attractive product displays.

Question 21. According to paragraph 3, what is TRUE about the effects of impulse buying?

A. Impulse buying always leads to long-term negative consequences.

B. Feelings of guilt and regret are common after impulse buying.

C. Financial stress is the only consequence of impulse buying.

D. Impulse buying provides a lasting sense of satisfaction.

Question 22. The word "which" in paragraph 3 refers to         .

A. impulse buying
B. negative consequences

C. financial stress and debt
D. overspending

Question 23. The word "alleviate" in paragraph 4 is OPPOSITE in meaning to         .

A. intensify
B. relieve
C. diminish
D. ease

Question 24. In which paragraph does the writer mention the role of retailers in encouraging unplanned purchases?

A. Paragraph 3
B. Paragraph 2
C. Paragraph 4
D. Paragraph 1

Question 25. In which paragraph does the writer suggest specific methods to control the urge to shop?

A. Paragraph 2
B. Paragraph 1
C. Paragraph 3
D. Paragraph 4

Mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best arrangement of utterances or sentences to make a meaningful exchange or text in each of the following questions.

Question 26.

A.         In contrast, countries with restrictive media environments demonstrate slower growth, indicating persistent structural barriers to cultural freedom.

B.         Regions with higher internet penetration—particularly North America and Western Europe—exhibit the strongest correlation between digital engagement and musical activism.

C.         The chart illustrates a consistent global increase in the percentage of musicians integrating political or social themes into their compositions, rising from 18% in 2010 to nearly 64% in 2025.

D.         Overall, the data underscores the expanding influence of technology in transforming music from a purely aesthetic medium into a central instrument of global political discourse.

e.        This upward trajectory corresponds with the widespread adoption of digital streaming platforms and the democratization of online distribution networks.

(Adapted from Brusila, 2022)

A. c – e – b – a – d
B. c – e – b – d – a
C. c – a – e – b – d
D. b – c – e – a – d

Question 27.

A.         Peter: Do you have any suggestions for us, Ms Hoa?

B.         Ms Hoa: I’d recommend Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

C.         Ms Hoa: We need to plan a field trip to a heritage site in Vietnam. So, where would you like to go?

(Adapted from Global Success)

A. b – a – c
B. c – b – a
C. c – a – b
D. a – c – b

Question 28.

Dear Ms. Trang,

A.         Last summer, I gained valuable experience at a local kindergarten, where I worked alongside teachers, contributed to classes, and supervised children during break times.

B.         I have attached my CV for your consideration and would be delighted to attend an interview at your convenience.

C.         I am writing in response to your online advertisement seeking staff for your kindergarten’s summer school program. I wish to apply for the position of children’s activity coordinator.

D.         I aspire to become a kindergarten teacher and hope to gain further experience by working with your successful organization.

e.        Please feel free to contact me if you require further information. Yours sincerely,

Thu Nguyen

(Adapted from Discovery)

A. e – a – d – c – b
B. e – a – c – d – b
C. c – a – d – b – e
D. c – b – d – a – e

Question 29.

A.         Mary: That’s a good idea! We can also stop buying products made from wild animals.

B.         Mary: Yes, I do! What can we do to help them?

C.         Tom: Exactly! And we should tell others to protect endangered species, too.

D.         Tom: Hi, Mary! Do you want to help protect wild animals?

e.        Tom: We can use reusable bags when we shop. It helps reduce plastic waste in nature.

(Adapted from THINK)

A. d – a – c – b – e
B. d - c – a – b – e
C. d – e – a – c – b
D. d – b – e – a – c

Question 30.

A.         In the past, most people usually stopped studying completely after they left school or university.

B.         Some people even return to formal education later in life to explore new goals, dreams, or personal interests.

C.         Over time, as the world has changed rapidly, lifelong learning has become more necessary and important than ever.

D.         Today, many adults continue learning through online courses, helpful workshops, or self-study programs at home.

e.        This helps them stay updated with new knowledge, adapt to modern challenges, and remain active in today’s society.

(Adapted from Key English Test 2)

A. a – e – c – d – b
B. a – c – d – b – e
C. a – e – d – b – c
D. a – c – e – d – b

Read the following passage about the benefits of a colorful diet and mark the letter A, B, C, D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions.

Despite the promises of hyper-connected urban life—where individuals live in proximity to thousands of others, surrounded by endless opportunities for engagement—a silent epidemic of loneliness has taken root.

[I] While cities are designed to maximize accessibility and interaction, their architecture surprisingly creates deep isolation. Tower blocks, temporary populations, and fast-paced lifestyles reduce the depth of social ties. Ironically, even in coffee shops full of people or on subways crammed shoulder to shoulder, meaningful human connection can remain hard to find. For many urban dwellers, the absence of community has become a quiet, long-term problem, hidden by the busy pace of modern life.

This phenomenon, while not novel, is escalating in size and complexity. [II] With the rise of remote work, precarious gig economies, and digital-first communication, the traditional foundations of belonging— neighborhood familiarity, face-to-face routines, and physical gathering spaces—are fading. Algorithms increasingly control our interactions, prioritizing efficiency over intimacy. Some urban planners argue that design decisions, such as prioritizing private transport over walkable public spaces, have indirectly caused social isolation. This slow erosion of communal infrastructure is rarely noticed in policy debates, yet its psychological consequences are becoming undeniable.

Governments and public health bodies are beginning to acknowledge loneliness not merely as an

emotional state but as a public health concern. [III] Studies have equated chronic loneliness with the risks of smoking and obesity. They link it to higher rates of depression, cardiovascular disease, and premature mortality. In response, some cities have created the position of “ministers of loneliness,” started programs to improve social spaces, and even tried “connection prescriptions,” where people are encouraged to join local clubs, choirs, or group activities instead of taking medicine. However, critics say these efforts are mostly symbolic and often do not have enough long-term funding or strong support.

Still, addressing urban loneliness demands more than reactive programs. [IV] It calls for a fundamental reimagining of urban life—one that values depth over density, presence over productivity. This might involve rearranging city spaces to foster spontaneous interactions, investing in third places like libraries or community kitchens, and using digital tools in ways that improve—rather than replace—face-to-face interaction. If left unaddressed, the city may continue to expand in size and complexity yet shrink in human warmth and solidarity.

(Adapted from Research Gate)

Question 31. According to paragraph 1, which of the following is TRUE about urban loneliness?

A. is more commonly found in suburban rather than inner-city areas.

B. brings about fewer opportunities for engagement.

C. often occurs despite physical and social closeness.

D. usually stems from convenience and interaction.

Question 32. Which of the following best summarizes the main idea of paragraph 1?

A. Although cities are built to foster social interaction, their very nature often leads to widespread emotional isolation.

B. The rise of dense urban neighborhoods has transformed communal life into superficial interactions centered on individual productivity.

C. Most city residents are unable to develop lasting friendships due to shifting demographics and relentless work pressures.

D. Social isolation is a recent phenomenon, caused largely by overpopulation and the disappearance of personal spaces in cities.

Question 33. Which of the following is NOT TRUE according to the passage?

A. Government-led solutions like "connection prescriptions" are generally viewed by critics as lacking long-term financial and systemic support.

B. Chronic loneliness is considered solely an emotional issue, with researchers finding no direct connection between it and physical health risks.

C. The design and structure of cities, while aiming for convenience, unintentionally contribute to feelings of deep isolation.

D. The decline in communal ties is partly attributed to urban planning decisions that favor individual transportation over accessible public areas.

Question 34. The word “precarious” in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to         .

A. secure and reliable
B. competitive and high-demand

C. standardized yet unpredictable
D. flexible but well-compensated

Question 35. The word “its” in paragraph 2 refers to         .

A. erosion
B. infrastructure
C. policy
D. detachment

Question 36. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 3?

Studies have equated chronic loneliness with the risks of smoking and obesity

A. That chronic isolation contributes to poor health is acknowledged, though its risks differ in kind from those linked to lifestyle diseases.

B. According to studies, the health consequences of chronic loneliness may be as harmful as those of behaviors like smoking and being overweight.

C. While loneliness can affect health, researchers generally agree it poses fewer dangers than widely known habits such as smoking.

D. Persistent loneliness has been compared by researchers to health threats like smoking and obesity, due to its long-term impact.

Question 37. According to the passage, the introduction of “ministers of loneliness” in some cities is considered         .

A. an innovative program rooted in decades of research

B. a symbolic gesture lacking long-term commitment

C. a radical policy shift in urban mental health funding

D. a short-term solution proven to improve relationships

Question 38. Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. The emergence of social isolation in urban life is often tied to individuals’ disengagement from traditional forms of shared activities.

B. Some structural and digital developments in cities have quietly limited the conditions under which meaningful relationships might naturally form.

C. Despite increased attention, many proposed responses to urban loneliness still rest on the assumption that physical proximity ensures connection.

D. Recent government interventions have focused on correcting misconceptions about loneliness rather than reimagining how people interact daily.

Question 39. Where in the passage does the following sentence best fit?

“Yet for many, this awareness arrives only when the effects become too severe to ignore.”

A. [II]
B. [I]
C. [III]
D. [IV]

Question 40. Which of the following best summarises the main argument of the passage?

A. While chronic loneliness is a serious psychological affliction with risks comparable to smoking, its root causes remain deeply personal and are largely unrelated to public policy or urban planning decisions.

B. The passage concludes that government interventions, such as appointing ministers of loneliness, have proven to be the most effective and structurally integrated solutions to this growing public health crisis.

C. The passage argues that urban loneliness is a serious paradox of modern city life, stemming from technological and architectural choices, which now requires a fundamental reimagining of public spaces and social values.

D. The proliferation of digital-first communication and algorithm-curated interactions is identified as the primary driver behind the collapse of traditional communities and the rise of emotional detachment.