Đề luyện Reading VSTEP số 6 — Thời gian: 60 phút

Đề gồm 4 bài đọc, mỗi bài 10 câu hỏi trắc nghiệm (A, B, C, D). Tổng cộng 40 câu. Hãy hoàn thành trong 60 phút.

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Passage 1: Crowd Psychology

Crowd psychology is the study of how individuals behave differently when they are part of a large group. Gustave Le Bon, a French social psychologist, published his influential work "The Crowd: A Study of the Popular Mind" in 1895. He argued that individuals in a crowd lose their sense of personal responsibility and become susceptible to emotional contagion, a phenomenon where feelings spread rapidly from person to person like a virus.

Modern research has both supported and challenged Le Bon's ideas. Studies confirm that people in crowds do tend to behave more impulsively and are more easily influenced by others. However, contrary to Le Bon's suggestion that crowds always become irrational and destructive, researchers have found that crowd behavior depends largely on context. Peaceful protests, music festivals, and sporting events demonstrate that crowds can be orderly and cooperative when appropriate social norms are established.

Social media has added a new dimension to crowd psychology. Online communities can form virtual crowds that exhibit similar patterns of emotional contagion and groupthink. The spread of misinformation on platforms like Twitter and Facebook often follows the same principles Le Bon described over a century ago, suggesting that his observations remain relevant in the digital age.

Câu 1. Who wrote "The Crowd: A Study of the Popular Mind"?

A. Sigmund Freud
B. Gustave Le Bon
C. Carl Jung
D. Jean Piaget

Câu 2. The term "emotional contagion" refers to ___.

A. a disease spread in crowds
B. feelings spreading rapidly among people
C. a type of crowd control
D. a method of psychological treatment

Câu 3. According to modern research, crowd behavior ___.

A. is always destructive
B. depends on context
C. cannot be studied scientifically
D. is identical in all cultures

Câu 4. The word "susceptible" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. resistant
B. vulnerable
C. hostile
D. indifferent

Câu 5. Which example shows that crowds can be orderly?

A. Riots and looting
B. Bank robberies
C. Peaceful protests
D. Traffic accidents

Câu 6. Social media has ___.

A. eliminated crowd psychology
B. made Le Bon's ideas completely outdated
C. added a new dimension to crowd psychology
D. solved the problem of misinformation

Câu 7. The word "groupthink" in paragraph 3 most likely refers to ___.

A. individual critical thinking
B. the tendency to conform to group opinions
C. a type of social media platform
D. a scientific research method

Câu 8. Le Bon's work was published in ___.

A. 1885
B. 1895
C. 1905
D. 1925

Câu 9. It can be inferred that the author believes Le Bon's ideas ___.

A. are completely wrong
B. have no modern relevance
C. are partly valid but need updating
D. should be banned from universities

Câu 10. The main purpose of the passage is to ___.

A. criticize social media companies
B. explain crowd psychology and its modern relevance
C. promote Le Bon's book
D. argue that crowds are always dangerous

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Passage 2: Income Inequality

Income inequality has become one of the most debated economic issues of the 21st century. The Gini coefficient, a statistical measure ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (maximum inequality), shows that inequality has increased in most developed countries since the 1980s. In the United States, the top 1 percent of earners now receive approximately 20 percent of total national income, compared to about 10 percent in 1980.

Several factors contribute to rising inequality. Globalization has allowed companies to move manufacturing jobs to countries with lower labor costs, reducing wages for workers in developed nations. Technological change has increased demand for highly skilled workers while reducing the need for routine manual labor. Additionally, tax policies in many countries have become more favorable to high-income earners, further widening the gap between rich and poor.

The consequences of extreme inequality extend beyond economics. Research has shown that countries with higher inequality tend to have worse health outcomes, higher crime rates, and lower levels of social trust. The economist Joseph Stiglitz argues that excessive inequality undermines democracy itself, as wealthy individuals and corporations gain disproportionate influence over political decisions. Finding the right balance between rewarding economic achievement and ensuring social stability remains one of the great challenges of our time.

Câu 11. What does a Gini coefficient of 0 represent?

A. Maximum inequality
B. Perfect equality
C. Average income
D. Zero economic growth

Câu 12. In the US, the top 1 percent now receive approximately ___ of national income.

A. 10 percent
B. 15 percent
C. 20 percent
D. 30 percent

Câu 13. Which factor does NOT contribute to rising inequality according to the passage?

A. Globalization
B. Technological change
C. Tax policies favoring the wealthy
D. Overpopulation

Câu 14. The word "disproportionate" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. equal and fair
B. excessively large relative to what is appropriate
C. small and insignificant
D. temporary

Câu 15. Globalization has reduced wages in developed countries by ___.

A. increasing taxes
B. moving manufacturing to lower-cost countries
C. reducing the number of universities
D. eliminating all trade

Câu 16. Countries with higher inequality tend to have ___.

A. better education systems
B. higher crime rates
C. stronger democracies
D. more innovation

Câu 17. Joseph Stiglitz argues that excessive inequality ___.

A. is necessary for economic growth
B. only affects developing countries
C. undermines democracy
D. has no political consequences

Câu 18. Income inequality has increased in most developed countries since ___.

A. the 1960s
B. the 1970s
C. the 1980s
D. the 2000s

Câu 19. It can be inferred that the author ___.

A. supports unlimited inequality
B. is concerned about the effects of inequality
C. believes inequality is unavoidable
D. thinks tax policies are unimportant

Câu 20. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how to eliminate poverty worldwide
B. the causes and consequences of income inequality
C. the biography of Joseph Stiglitz
D. a comparison of tax systems

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Passage 3: Language Extinction

Of the approximately 7,000 languages spoken worldwide today, linguists estimate that nearly half will disappear by the end of this century. A language is considered endangered when children no longer learn it as their first language. Once the last fluent speakers die, the language becomes extinct, taking with it unique cultural knowledge, oral traditions, and ways of understanding the world that cannot be fully captured in translation.

The causes of language extinction are complex. Colonization historically forced indigenous peoples to abandon their native languages in favor of the colonizer's language. Today, globalization and urbanization continue this trend as speakers of minority languages move to cities where dominant languages are used in education, employment, and media. Many parents choose to raise their children in the dominant language, believing it will give them better economic opportunities.

Efforts to preserve endangered languages have intensified in recent decades. Organizations like UNESCO maintain lists of endangered languages and fund documentation projects. Technology has also played a role: mobile apps, online dictionaries, and video recordings help preserve languages that lack written traditions. In New Zealand, the Maori language has experienced a revival through immersion schools called "kohanga reo" (language nests), where children are educated entirely in Maori from an early age. Such programs demonstrate that language decline can be reversed with sustained community effort and government support.

Câu 21. How many languages are currently spoken worldwide?

A. About 3,500
B. About 5,000
C. About 7,000
D. About 10,000

Câu 22. A language is considered endangered when ___.

A. fewer than 1,000 people speak it
B. children no longer learn it as their first language
C. it is not taught in universities
D. it has no written form

Câu 23. The word "extinct" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. widespread
B. no longer existing
C. recently discovered
D. officially recognized

Câu 24. Which factor contributed to language loss historically?

A. Natural disasters
B. Colonization
C. Climate change
D. Technological failure

Câu 25. Why do some parents choose dominant languages for their children?

A. They dislike their native culture
B. They believe it offers better economic opportunities
C. Dominant languages are easier to learn
D. Schools refuse to teach minority languages

Câu 26. What is a "kohanga reo"?

A. A type of Maori food
B. A Maori immersion school
C. A New Zealand government office
D. A language testing center

Câu 27. Which technology helps preserve endangered languages?

A. Nuclear power plants
B. Mobile apps and online dictionaries
C. Satellite television
D. Printing presses only

Câu 28. The word "immersion" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. partial exposure
B. complete involvement in something
C. physical swimming
D. brief introduction

Câu 29. It can be inferred that language extinction ___.

A. only affects small island nations
B. results in the loss of cultural knowledge
C. is welcomed by most linguists
D. has already been solved

Câu 30. The example of Maori in New Zealand shows that ___.

A. language decline cannot be stopped
B. technology is useless for language preservation
C. language revival is possible with effort and support
D. only European languages can survive

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Passage 4: Global Migration

International migration has reached unprecedented levels, with approximately 281 million people living outside their country of birth in 2023, according to the United Nations. This represents about 3.6 percent of the world's population. While migration has occurred throughout human history, modern transportation, communication technology, and economic globalization have accelerated the movement of people across borders.

The causes of migration are typically divided into push and pull factors. Push factors include poverty, armed conflict, political persecution, and natural disasters that force people to leave their home countries. Pull factors include better employment opportunities, higher wages, quality education, and political freedom in destination countries. Climate change is emerging as an increasingly important driver of migration, with rising sea levels and extreme weather events displacing millions of people annually.

Migration has significant economic effects on both sending and receiving countries. Receiving countries benefit from a larger labor force and increased cultural diversity, which can drive innovation and economic growth. However, they may also face challenges related to housing, public services, and social integration. Sending countries lose skilled workers through "brain drain" but receive remittances — money sent home by migrants — which totaled $656 billion in 2022 and represent a vital source of income for many developing nations.

The political debate around migration often generates more heat than light. Evidence suggests that the economic impact of migration is generally positive for receiving countries in the long run, though the benefits and costs are not distributed evenly across society. Developing fair and effective migration policies requires moving beyond emotional rhetoric to engage with the complex realities that drive human movement.

Câu 31. How many people lived outside their country of birth in 2023?

A. About 181 million
B. About 231 million
C. About 281 million
D. About 381 million

Câu 32. International migrants represent approximately ___ of the world's population.

A. 1.6 percent
B. 2.6 percent
C. 3.6 percent
D. 5.6 percent

Câu 33. Which is a "push factor" for migration?

A. Higher wages abroad
B. Better education opportunities
C. Armed conflict
D. Political freedom

Câu 34. The word "remittances" in paragraph 3 refers to ___.

A. government aid to developing countries
B. money sent home by migrants
C. taxes paid by immigrants
D. loans from international banks

Câu 35. How much were global remittances in 2022?

A. $456 billion
B. $556 billion
C. $656 billion
D. $756 billion

Câu 36. "Brain drain" refers to ___.

A. mental health problems in migrants
B. the loss of skilled workers from sending countries
C. educational programs for immigrants
D. a type of medical condition

Câu 37. The phrase "generates more heat than light" in paragraph 4 means ___.

A. causes environmental problems
B. produces anger rather than understanding
C. creates energy efficiently
D. improves public knowledge

Câu 38. Climate change drives migration through ___.

A. creating new job opportunities
B. improving transportation
C. rising sea levels and extreme weather
D. reducing cultural barriers

Câu 39. It can be inferred that the author believes migration policy should be ___.

A. based on emotional arguments
B. guided by evidence and complexity
C. focused on stopping all migration
D. left entirely to individual countries

Câu 40. The economic impact of migration on receiving countries is generally ___.

A. entirely negative
B. positive in the long run
C. impossible to measure
D. only beneficial for migrants

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Đáp án đề Reading VSTEP số 6

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Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án
1	B	11	B	21	C	31	C
2	B	12	C	22	B	32	C
3	B	13	D	23	B	33	C
4	B	14	B	24	B	34	B
5	C	15	B	25	B	35	C
6	C	16	B	26	B	36	B
7	B	17	C	27	B	37	B
8	B	18	C	28	B	38	C
9	C	19	B	29	B	39	B
10	B	20	B	30	C	40	B

Giải thích 10 câu khó nhất

Câu 4 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Susceptible to emotional contagion" — susceptible nghĩa là dễ bị ảnh hưởng, dễ bị tổn thương (vulnerable). Cá nhân trong đám đông dễ bị lây lan cảm xúc từ người khác.

Câu 7 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Groupthink" — hiện tượng tư duy nhóm, khi mọi người trong nhóm có xu hướng đồng thuận mà không phản biện. Ngữ cảnh nói về cộng đồng mạng có hành vi tương tự đám đông — tức là xu hướng tuân theo ý kiến số đông.

Câu 9 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Inference. Tác giả vừa thừa nhận nghiên cứu hiện đại ủng hộ một phần ý tưởng Le Bon ("Studies confirm..."), vừa nêu phản bác ("contrary to Le Bon's suggestion"). Suy ra: ý tưởng của Le Bon có phần đúng nhưng cần cập nhật.

Câu 14 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Disproportionate influence over political decisions" — disproportionate nghĩa là không cân xứng, quá lớn so với mức hợp lý. Người giàu có ảnh hưởng chính trị vượt quá tỷ lệ dân số họ chiếm.

Câu 19 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Tác giả liệt kê nhiều hậu quả tiêu cực (tội phạm, sức khỏe kém, xói mòn dân chủ) và kết bài bằng "one of the great challenges of our time" — cho thấy sự quan ngại rõ ràng về bất bình đẳng.

Câu 23 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "The language becomes extinct" — extinct nghĩa là tuyệt chủng, không còn tồn tại. Tương tự cách dùng với loài động vật: khi người nói cuối cùng qua đời, ngôn ngữ "chết".

Câu 28 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Immersion schools" — immersion nghĩa là đắm chìm hoàn toàn. Trẻ em học hoàn toàn bằng tiếng Maori, không dùng tiếng Anh — tức là "complete involvement" trong ngôn ngữ đó.

Câu 34 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Receive remittances — money sent home by migrants" — câu gốc đã định nghĩa trực tiếp: remittances = tiền người di cư gửi về nước. Đáp án B đúng nguyên văn.

Câu 37 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Idiom/Figurative Language. "Generates more heat than light" — thành ngữ tiếng Anh, nghĩa là tạo ra nhiều tranh cãi nóng nảy (heat) hơn là sự hiểu biết sáng suốt (light). Tức là: cuộc tranh luận gây giận dữ nhiều hơn là mang lại sự thấu hiểu.

Câu 39 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Câu cuối: "requires moving beyond emotional rhetoric to engage with the complex realities" — tác giả kêu gọi dựa vào bằng chứng và hiểu biết phức tạp, không dựa vào cảm xúc. Đáp án B (guided by evidence and complexity) phù hợp nhất.

Đề luyện Reading VSTEP số 7 — Thời gian: 60 phút

Đề gồm 4 bài đọc, mỗi bài 10 câu hỏi trắc nghiệm (A, B, C, D). Tổng cộng 40 câu. Hãy hoàn thành trong 60 phút.

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Passage 1: Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity has become a critical concern for governments, businesses, and individuals alike. In 2023, cybercrime cost the global economy an estimated $8 trillion, a figure projected to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025. The most common forms of cyberattack include phishing, where criminals send deceptive emails to trick victims into revealing passwords or financial information, and ransomware, where malicious software encrypts a victim's files and demands payment for their release.

The healthcare sector has become a particularly attractive target for cybercriminals. Hospitals store vast amounts of sensitive patient data, and their systems often rely on outdated software that is vulnerable to attack. In 2021, a ransomware attack on Ireland's Health Service Executive shut down the country's entire public health system for weeks, delaying surgeries and cancer treatments. The incident highlighted the potentially life-threatening consequences of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure.

Experts recommend a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. This includes keeping software updated, using strong and unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and training employees to recognize phishing attempts. However, as cybercriminals become more sophisticated, using artificial intelligence to craft convincing fake emails and deepfake voice recordings, the challenge of maintaining digital security continues to grow.

Câu 1. How much did cybercrime cost the global economy in 2023?

A. $5 trillion
B. $8 trillion
C. $10.5 trillion
D. $12 trillion

Câu 2. What is phishing?

A. A type of fishing sport
B. Sending deceptive emails to steal information
C. A software update process
D. An encryption method

Câu 3. Why is the healthcare sector attractive to cybercriminals?

A. Hospitals have the most money
B. They store sensitive data and use outdated software
C. Doctors are easy to deceive
D. Healthcare is unregulated

Câu 4. The ransomware attack on Ireland's health system ___.

A. lasted only a few hours
B. had no significant impact
C. shut down the public health system for weeks
D. affected only one hospital

Câu 5. The word "deceptive" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. honest
B. misleading
C. informative
D. friendly

Câu 6. Which is NOT a recommended cybersecurity measure?

A. Keeping software updated
B. Using strong passwords
C. Sharing passwords with colleagues
D. Enabling two-factor authentication

Câu 7. Cybercriminals now use AI to ___.

A. protect hospital systems
B. craft convincing fake emails
C. train cybersecurity experts
D. develop antivirus software

Câu 8. The word "sophisticated" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. simple
B. advanced and complex
C. old-fashioned
D. friendly

Câu 9. It can be inferred that cybersecurity challenges will ___.

A. disappear within a few years
B. continue to increase
C. only affect large companies
D. be solved by government regulation alone

Câu 10. The main purpose of the passage is to ___.

A. teach readers how to hack
B. describe cybersecurity threats and defenses
C. promote a specific antivirus product
D. criticize the healthcare industry

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Passage 2: AI in Education

Artificial intelligence is reshaping education in profound ways. Adaptive learning platforms use AI algorithms to analyze student performance in real time, adjusting the difficulty and content of exercises to match each learner's level. This personalized approach means that struggling students receive additional practice on concepts they find difficult, while advanced students are challenged with more complex material. Studies have shown that students using adaptive platforms improve their test scores by 20 to 30 percent compared to traditional classroom instruction alone.

AI-powered language tools have also transformed how students learn foreign languages. Applications like ChatGPT and specialized language tutors can hold conversations with learners, correct their grammar, and provide instant feedback on pronunciation. Unlike human tutors, these tools are available 24 hours a day and can serve millions of students simultaneously, making quality language education accessible to learners in remote areas who previously had no access to native speakers.

However, the integration of AI into education raises concerns about academic integrity and critical thinking. Students may become overly dependent on AI tools, using them to complete assignments without genuine learning. Universities worldwide report increasing cases of students submitting AI-generated essays. There are also worries that AI-driven education could widen the digital divide, as students from wealthier backgrounds have better access to technology. Educators must find ways to harness AI's benefits while preserving the human elements of teaching that inspire curiosity and independent thought.

Câu 11. Adaptive learning platforms work by ___.

A. replacing teachers entirely
B. analyzing student performance and adjusting content
C. providing the same content to all students
D. only teaching advanced students

Câu 12. Students using adaptive platforms improve test scores by ___.

A. 5 to 10 percent
B. 10 to 15 percent
C. 20 to 30 percent
D. 40 to 50 percent

Câu 13. AI language tools can help students in remote areas because ___.

A. they are free of charge
B. they can serve millions of students simultaneously
C. they replace the need for schools
D. they only work offline

Câu 14. The word "harness" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. destroy
B. make use of
C. ignore
D. criticize

Câu 15. A concern about AI in education is that students may ___.

A. learn too much
B. become overly dependent on AI tools
C. refuse to use technology
D. stop attending school entirely

Câu 16. The "digital divide" refers to ___.

A. a type of computer virus
B. the gap between those with and without technology access
C. a mathematical concept
D. the division of AI into categories

Câu 17. Universities report increasing cases of ___.

A. students dropping out
B. AI tools malfunctioning
C. students submitting AI-generated essays
D. teachers refusing to use technology

Câu 18. Unlike human tutors, AI language tools ___.

A. provide better emotional support
B. are available 24 hours a day
C. can only teach one student at a time
D. require no internet connection

Câu 19. It can be inferred that the author ___.

A. wants to ban AI from education
B. sees both benefits and risks of AI in education
C. believes AI will solve all educational problems
D. thinks human teachers are unnecessary

Câu 20. The passage is mainly about ___.

A. the history of education
B. how AI is changing education, with its benefits and concerns
C. why traditional teaching is better than technology
D. a review of specific AI products

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Passage 3: Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology, originally developed as the underlying system for Bitcoin cryptocurrency, has applications far beyond digital currency. A blockchain is essentially a distributed digital ledger that records transactions across many computers in a way that makes the records virtually impossible to alter retroactively. Each block in the chain contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data, creating an unbreakable chain of verified information.

One of the most promising applications of blockchain is in supply chain management. Companies can use blockchain to track products from raw materials to finished goods, creating a transparent and tamper-proof record at every stage. Walmart, for example, uses blockchain to trace the origin of food products within seconds, compared to the days or weeks required by traditional tracking methods. This capability is particularly valuable during food safety recalls, when quickly identifying the source of contamination can prevent illness and save lives.

Blockchain is also being explored for voting systems, land registries, and healthcare records. In developing countries where government records are unreliable or subject to corruption, blockchain could provide a secure and transparent alternative. However, the technology faces significant challenges including high energy consumption, limited processing speed compared to traditional databases, and regulatory uncertainty. Critics argue that blockchain is often promoted as a solution to problems that could be solved more simply with existing technology.

Câu 21. Blockchain was originally developed for ___.

A. supply chain management
B. Bitcoin cryptocurrency
C. government voting systems
D. healthcare records

Câu 22. A blockchain is described as ___.

A. a physical chain of metal links
B. a distributed digital ledger
C. a type of computer virus
D. a government database

Câu 23. Walmart uses blockchain to ___.

A. sell cryptocurrency
B. manage employee schedules
C. trace the origin of food products
D. develop new products

Câu 24. The word "tamper-proof" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. waterproof
B. resistant to unauthorized changes
C. easily modified
D. fireproof

Câu 25. Blockchain could help developing countries by ___.

A. providing free internet access
B. offering secure and transparent records
C. replacing all government institutions
D. eliminating poverty

Câu 26. Which is a challenge facing blockchain technology?

A. It is too easy to hack
B. High energy consumption
C. It only works with Bitcoin
D. It cannot store any data

Câu 27. The word "retroactively" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. looking forward
B. applying to the past
C. temporarily
D. accidentally

Câu 28. Traditional food tracking methods require ___.

A. seconds
B. minutes
C. days or weeks
D. years

Câu 29. Critics of blockchain argue that ___.

A. it should be used for everything
B. it is sometimes an unnecessary complicated solution
C. it is the best technology ever invented
D. it should only be used for Bitcoin

Câu 30. The main purpose of the passage is to ___.

A. convince readers to invest in Bitcoin
B. explain blockchain technology and its applications and limitations
C. argue that blockchain should be banned
D. describe how to create a blockchain

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Passage 4: Self-Driving Cars

Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, represent one of the most significant technological developments in transportation. These vehicles use a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, and artificial intelligence to navigate roads without human intervention. Companies like Waymo, Tesla, and Cruise have invested billions of dollars in developing this technology, and limited self-driving taxi services are already operating in cities like San Francisco and Phoenix.

Proponents argue that autonomous vehicles could dramatically improve road safety. Human error is responsible for approximately 94 percent of traffic accidents, and self-driving cars never get tired, distracted, or drunk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that widespread adoption of self-driving technology could save over 30,000 lives per year in the United States alone. Autonomous vehicles could also increase mobility for elderly and disabled individuals who are unable to drive conventional cars.

However, self-driving technology faces substantial obstacles. The vehicles struggle to perform reliably in adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, which obscure sensor readings. Edge cases — rare and unexpected situations like a mattress falling off a truck — remain extremely challenging for AI systems to handle. There are also unresolved ethical questions: when an accident is unavoidable, how should the vehicle's AI decide between different harmful outcomes? Legal frameworks for determining liability when autonomous vehicles cause accidents are still being developed in most countries.

Despite these challenges, most industry experts predict that autonomous vehicles will gradually become commonplace over the next two decades, though the transition will likely be slower than early optimists predicted.

Câu 31. Self-driving cars navigate using ___.

A. only GPS
B. sensors, cameras, radar, and AI
C. remote control by humans
D. magnetic tracks in roads

Câu 32. Human error causes approximately ___ of traffic accidents.

A. 50 percent
B. 75 percent
C. 85 percent
D. 94 percent

Câu 33. Self-driving taxi services already operate in ___.

A. every major US city
B. San Francisco and Phoenix
C. Europe only
D. no city yet

Câu 34. The word "adverse" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. favorable
B. normal
C. unfavorable or harmful
D. tropical

Câu 35. An "edge case" is ___.

A. a common traffic situation
B. a rare and unexpected situation
C. a type of road intersection
D. a safety feature in cars

Câu 36. Autonomous vehicles could help ___ people.

A. only wealthy
B. elderly and disabled
C. professional drivers only
D. children under 10

Câu 37. The word "obscure" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. improve
B. block or make unclear
C. enhance
D. reflect

Câu 38. An unresolved ethical question about self-driving cars is ___.

A. whether cars should use gasoline
B. what color they should be
C. how AI should decide in unavoidable accidents
D. whether they need license plates

Câu 39. Most experts predict self-driving cars will become commonplace ___.

A. within 2 years
B. over the next two decades
C. never
D. only in Asia

Câu 40. It can be inferred that the transition to self-driving cars ___.

A. will happen overnight
B. will be gradual and slower than expected
C. has already been completed
D. will only occur in developing countries

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Đáp án đề Reading VSTEP số 7

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Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án
1	B	11	B	21	B	31	B
2	B	12	C	22	B	32	D
3	B	13	B	23	C	33	B
4	C	14	B	24	B	34	C
5	B	15	B	25	B	35	B
6	C	16	B	26	B	36	B
7	B	17	C	27	B	37	B
8	B	18	B	28	C	38	C
9	B	19	B	29	B	39	B
10	B	20	B	30	B	40	B

Giải thích 10 câu khó nhất

Câu 5 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Deceptive emails" — deceptive nghĩa là lừa đảo, gây hiểu lầm (misleading). Email phishing được thiết kế để trông như thật nhằm đánh lừa nạn nhân.

Câu 8 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Cybercriminals become more sophisticated" — sophisticated nghĩa là tinh vi, phức tạp, tiên tiến. Tội phạm mạng ngày càng dùng kỹ thuật cao cấp hơn (AI, deepfake).

Câu 9 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Câu cuối: "the challenge of maintaining digital security continues to grow" — khi tội phạm mạng ngày càng tinh vi, thách thức an ninh mạng sẽ tiếp tục tăng, không giảm.

Câu 14 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Harness AI's benefits" — harness nghĩa là khai thác, tận dụng (make use of). Giáo viên cần tìm cách tận dụng lợi ích của AI thay vì cấm hoàn toàn.

Câu 16 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Digital divide" — khoảng cách số, chỉ sự chênh lệch giữa người có và không có quyền tiếp cận công nghệ. Học sinh giàu có thiết bị tốt hơn, tạo bất bình đẳng giáo dục.

Câu 24 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Tamper-proof record" — tamper-proof nghĩa là chống giả mạo, không thể thay đổi trái phép. Blockchain tạo hồ sơ mà không ai có thể sửa đổi bất hợp pháp.

Câu 27 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Impossible to alter retroactively" — retroactively nghĩa là hồi tố, áp dụng cho quá khứ. Dữ liệu blockchain không thể bị sửa đổi ngược lại sau khi đã ghi.

Câu 29 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. "Blockchain is often promoted as a solution to problems that could be solved more simply" — phê bình rằng blockchain đôi khi là giải pháp phức tạp không cần thiết cho vấn đề đơn giản.

Câu 34 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Adverse weather conditions" — adverse nghĩa là bất lợi, có hại (unfavorable or harmful). Mưa lớn, tuyết, sương mù đều là điều kiện thời tiết bất lợi cho cảm biến xe tự lái.

Câu 37 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Obscure sensor readings" — obscure (động từ) nghĩa là che khuất, làm mờ (block or make unclear). Mưa và sương mù che khuất tín hiệu cảm biến.

Đề luyện Reading VSTEP số 8 — Thời gian: 60 phút

Đề gồm 4 bài đọc, mỗi bài 10 câu hỏi trắc nghiệm (A, B, C, D). Tổng cộng 40 câu. Hãy hoàn thành trong 60 phút.

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Passage 1: Biodiversity Loss

The Earth is experiencing its sixth mass extinction event, driven not by natural catastrophes but by human activity. Scientists estimate that species are disappearing at a rate 1,000 times faster than the natural background extinction rate. The World Wildlife Fund's Living Planet Report 2022 revealed that monitored wildlife populations have declined by an average of 69 percent since 1970, a staggering loss that threatens the stability of ecosystems worldwide.

The primary drivers of biodiversity loss are habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution, invasive species, and climate change. Deforestation alone eliminates approximately 10 million hectares of forest annually, destroying the habitats of countless species. The Amazon rainforest, often called the "lungs of the Earth," has lost nearly 17 percent of its forest cover in the last 50 years. Coral reefs, which support approximately 25 percent of all marine species, face bleaching events caused by rising ocean temperatures that have become increasingly frequent and severe.

The loss of biodiversity has profound consequences for human well-being. Ecosystem services — the benefits humans derive from nature, including clean air, water purification, pollination, and flood control — are valued at an estimated $125 trillion annually. When species disappear, these services deteriorate. The decline of pollinator populations, particularly bees, directly threatens global food production, as approximately 75 percent of food crops depend at least partly on animal pollination. Reversing biodiversity loss requires coordinated global action to protect habitats, regulate resource extraction, and address climate change.

Câu 1. The current mass extinction is mainly caused by ___.

A. volcanic eruptions
B. asteroid impacts
C. human activity
D. natural climate cycles

Câu 2. Wildlife populations have declined by ___ since 1970.

A. 39 percent
B. 49 percent
C. 59 percent
D. 69 percent

Câu 3. How much forest is lost annually to deforestation?

A. 5 million hectares
B. 10 million hectares
C. 15 million hectares
D. 20 million hectares

Câu 4. The word "staggering" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. expected
B. insignificant
C. astonishing
D. gradual

Câu 5. Coral reefs support approximately ___ of all marine species.

A. 10 percent
B. 25 percent
C. 50 percent
D. 75 percent

Câu 6. The Amazon rainforest has lost ___ of its cover in the last 50 years.

A. nearly 7 percent
B. nearly 17 percent
C. nearly 27 percent
D. nearly 37 percent

Câu 7. Ecosystem services are valued at ___.

A. $25 trillion annually
B. $75 trillion annually
C. $125 trillion annually
D. $200 trillion annually

Câu 8. The word "deteriorate" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. improve
B. remain stable
C. become worse
D. disappear instantly

Câu 9. Approximately ___ of food crops depend partly on animal pollination.

A. 25 percent
B. 50 percent
C. 75 percent
D. 90 percent

Câu 10. It can be inferred that the author ___.

A. believes biodiversity loss is exaggerated
B. considers biodiversity loss an urgent global crisis
C. thinks technology will solve the problem alone
D. is not concerned about the future

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Passage 2: Nuclear Energy Debate

Nuclear energy has long been one of the most controversial topics in energy policy. Supporters argue that nuclear power is one of the most efficient and reliable sources of low-carbon electricity. A single nuclear plant can generate enormous amounts of energy using relatively small amounts of fuel, and unlike solar and wind power, nuclear plants can operate continuously regardless of weather conditions. France, which generates about 70 percent of its electricity from nuclear power, has one of the lowest carbon footprints per capita in Europe.

Opponents of nuclear energy point to the catastrophic risks associated with nuclear accidents. The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 contaminated vast areas of Ukraine and Belarus, forcing the permanent evacuation of over 350,000 people. The Fukushima accident in 2011, triggered by a massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan, released radioactive material into the atmosphere and ocean, and the cleanup is expected to take 30 to 40 years. The long-term storage of nuclear waste also remains unresolved, as spent fuel remains radioactive for thousands of years.

A new generation of nuclear technology, including small modular reactors and fusion research, may address some of these concerns. Small modular reactors are designed to be safer and cheaper than traditional large-scale plants, with built-in safety features that prevent meltdowns. Nuclear fusion, which powers the sun, produces minimal radioactive waste and carries no risk of meltdown, but achieving sustained fusion reactions on Earth remains an enormous technical challenge. Whether nuclear energy should play a significant role in the transition to clean energy remains one of the most divisive questions in environmental policy.

Câu 11. France generates about ___ of its electricity from nuclear power.

A. 30 percent
B. 50 percent
C. 70 percent
D. 90 percent

Câu 12. The Chernobyl disaster occurred in ___.

A. 1976
B. 1986
C. 1996
D. 2006

Câu 13. The Fukushima cleanup is expected to take ___.

A. 5 to 10 years
B. 10 to 20 years
C. 30 to 40 years
D. 50 to 60 years

Câu 14. The word "catastrophic" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. minor
B. disastrous
C. predictable
D. beneficial

Câu 15. An advantage of nuclear power over solar and wind is that it ___.

A. is cheaper to build
B. operates continuously regardless of weather
C. produces no waste
D. uses no fuel

Câu 16. Small modular reactors are designed to be ___.

A. larger than traditional plants
B. safer and cheaper
C. powered by coal
D. used only in space

Câu 17. Nuclear fusion ___.

A. is currently widely used for electricity
B. produces large amounts of radioactive waste
C. remains an enormous technical challenge
D. was achieved in 2020

Câu 18. The word "divisive" in the last sentence is closest in meaning to ___.

A. unifying
B. boring
C. causing strong disagreement
D. irrelevant

Câu 19. It can be inferred that the author ___.

A. strongly supports nuclear energy
B. presents both sides without clear bias
C. opposes all nuclear technology
D. believes fusion is impossible

Câu 20. The main purpose of the passage is to ___.

A. convince readers to support nuclear power
B. present the arguments for and against nuclear energy
C. explain how nuclear reactors work in detail
D. describe the Chernobyl disaster

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Passage 3: Sustainable Agriculture

Conventional agriculture has dramatically increased food production over the past century, but at a significant environmental cost. Industrial farming relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides, and monoculture — the practice of growing a single crop over large areas. While these methods maximize short-term yields, they degrade soil health, contaminate water supplies, reduce biodiversity, and contribute approximately 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainable agriculture offers alternative practices that aim to produce food while preserving environmental health. Crop rotation involves growing different crops in succession on the same land, which replenishes soil nutrients naturally and breaks pest cycles. Cover cropping — planting species like clover between harvest seasons — prevents soil erosion and adds nitrogen to the soil. Integrated pest management combines biological controls, such as introducing natural predators, with minimal and targeted use of pesticides.

Critics argue that sustainable farming methods produce lower yields per hectare than conventional agriculture, raising concerns about feeding a growing global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050. However, proponents counter that the comparison is misleading because conventional farming's apparent efficiency ignores its hidden costs: soil degradation that reduces future productivity, water pollution that requires expensive treatment, and health problems caused by pesticide exposure. Research published in Nature Sustainability found that organic farms produce 19 percent lower yields on average but use 45 percent less energy and generate 40 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions per unit of food produced.

Câu 21. Monoculture is the practice of ___.

A. growing many different crops together
B. growing a single crop over large areas
C. farming without any machinery
D. using only organic methods

Câu 22. Agriculture contributes approximately ___ of global greenhouse gas emissions.

A. 5 percent
B. 10 percent
C. 20 percent
D. 30 percent

Câu 23. Crop rotation helps by ___.

A. increasing the use of pesticides
B. replenishing soil nutrients and breaking pest cycles
C. requiring more water
D. reducing the number of crops grown

Câu 24. The word "replenishes" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. depletes
B. restores
C. measures
D. destroys

Câu 25. The global population is projected to reach ___ by 2050.

A. 7.7 billion
B. 8.7 billion
C. 9.7 billion
D. 10.7 billion

Câu 26. Organic farms produce ___ lower yields on average.

A. 9 percent
B. 19 percent
C. 29 percent
D. 39 percent

Câu 27. Cover cropping helps prevent ___.

A. plant growth
B. soil erosion
C. rainfall
D. photosynthesis

Câu 28. The word "degradation" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. improvement
B. measurement
C. decline in quality
D. rapid growth

Câu 29. Proponents of sustainable farming argue that conventional farming ___.

A. has no environmental impact
B. ignores hidden environmental and health costs
C. is the only way to feed the world
D. uses less energy than organic farming

Câu 30. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how to start an organic farm
B. conventional vs. sustainable agriculture and their trade-offs
C. the history of farming over 10,000 years
D. why all pesticides should be banned

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Passage 4: Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. According to the United Nations, approximately 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water. By 2025, half of the world's population is expected to live in water-stressed areas. While the Earth contains vast amounts of water, only about 2.5 percent is fresh water, and much of that is locked in glaciers and ice caps, leaving less than 1 percent readily available for human use.

The causes of water scarcity are both natural and human-made. Arid regions naturally receive little rainfall, but human activities have intensified the problem. Agriculture consumes approximately 70 percent of global freshwater withdrawals, often using inefficient irrigation methods that waste enormous amounts of water. Industrial processes and urban expansion further strain water supplies. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns, causing longer droughts in some regions while bringing more intense flooding to others.

Solutions to water scarcity require both technological innovation and behavioral change. Desalination — converting seawater to fresh water — is becoming more affordable and is already widely used in countries like Israel and Saudi Arabia. Drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to plant roots, can reduce agricultural water use by up to 60 percent compared to traditional methods. Water recycling and rainwater harvesting offer additional ways to stretch limited supplies. However, experts emphasize that technology alone cannot solve the water crisis; reducing waste, reforming water pricing, and improving governance of shared water resources are equally essential.

Câu 31. How many people lack safely managed drinking water?

A. About 1.2 billion
B. About 2.2 billion
C. About 3.2 billion
D. About 4.2 billion

Câu 32. What percentage of Earth's water is fresh water?

A. About 0.5 percent
B. About 2.5 percent
C. About 10 percent
D. About 25 percent

Câu 33. Agriculture consumes approximately ___ of global freshwater.

A. 30 percent
B. 50 percent
C. 70 percent
D. 90 percent

Câu 34. The word "arid" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. tropical
B. very dry
C. mountainous
D. coastal

Câu 35. Desalination is the process of ___.

A. purifying river water
B. converting seawater to fresh water
C. collecting rainwater
D. filtering groundwater

Câu 36. Drip irrigation can reduce water use by up to ___.

A. 20 percent
B. 40 percent
C. 60 percent
D. 80 percent

Câu 37. Less than ___ of Earth's water is readily available for human use.

A. 1 percent
B. 5 percent
C. 10 percent
D. 15 percent

Câu 38. The word "strain" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. support
B. increase
C. put pressure on
D. purify

Câu 39. It can be inferred that solving water scarcity requires ___.

A. only building more desalination plants
B. both technology and changes in behavior and policy
C. waiting for climate change to reverse
D. reducing the world's population

Câu 40. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how desalination plants work
B. the causes of and solutions to water scarcity
C. why agriculture should be eliminated
D. the history of water management

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Xem đáp án và giải thích chi tiết tại bài tiếp theo.

Đáp án đề Reading VSTEP số 8

Bảng đáp án

Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án
1	C	11	C	21	B	31	B
2	D	12	B	22	B	32	B
3	B	13	C	23	B	33	C
4	C	14	B	24	B	34	B
5	B	15	B	25	C	35	B
6	B	16	B	26	B	36	C
7	C	17	C	27	B	37	A
8	C	18	C	28	C	38	C
9	C	19	B	29	B	39	B
10	B	20	B	30	B	40	B

Giải thích 10 câu khó nhất

Câu 4 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "A staggering loss" — staggering nghĩa là gây kinh ngạc, choáng váng (astonishing). Mức giảm 69% quần thể động vật hoang dã là con số gây sốc.

Câu 8 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "These services deteriorate" — deteriorate nghĩa là xấu đi, suy thoái (become worse). Khi loài biến mất, dịch vụ hệ sinh thái suy giảm chất lượng.

Câu 14 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Catastrophic risks" — catastrophic nghĩa là thảm khốc, gây thiệt hại nghiêm trọng (disastrous). Chernobyl và Fukushima là ví dụ về rủi ro thảm khốc.

Câu 18 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "One of the most divisive questions" — divisive nghĩa là gây chia rẽ, gây bất đồng mạnh (causing strong disagreement). Năng lượng hạt nhân chia phe ủng hộ và phản đối rõ rệt.

Câu 19 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Tác giả trình bày lập luận hai phía (supporters vs. opponents) một cách cân bằng, không nghiêng về bên nào. Kết bài đặt câu hỏi mở: "Whether nuclear energy should play a significant role..." — thái độ trung lập.

Câu 24 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Replenishes soil nutrients" — replenish nghĩa là bổ sung lại, phục hồi (restore). Luân canh cây trồng giúp đất phục hồi chất dinh dưỡng đã mất.

Câu 28 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Soil degradation that reduces future productivity" — degradation nghĩa là sự xuống cấp, suy thoái (decline in quality). Đất bị khai thác quá mức sẽ giảm chất lượng theo thời gian.

Câu 34 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Arid regions naturally receive little rainfall" — arid nghĩa là khô cằn, rất ít mưa (very dry). Sa mạc Sahara, Trung Đông là ví dụ vùng arid.

Câu 38 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Industrial processes and urban expansion further strain water supplies" — strain nghĩa là gây áp lực, tạo gánh nặng (put pressure on). Công nghiệp và đô thị hóa khiến nguồn nước càng bị căng thẳng.

Câu 39 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Câu cuối: "technology alone cannot solve the water crisis; reducing waste, reforming water pricing, and improving governance... are equally essential." Suy ra: cần cả công nghệ lẫn thay đổi hành vi và chính sách.

Đề luyện Reading VSTEP số 9 — Thời gian: 60 phút

Đề gồm 4 bài đọc, mỗi bài 10 câu hỏi trắc nghiệm (A, B, C, D). Tổng cộng 40 câu. Hãy hoàn thành trong 60 phút.

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Passage 1: World Heritage Sites

UNESCO's World Heritage List, established in 1972, recognizes places of outstanding universal value that deserve protection for future generations. As of 2024, the list includes 1,199 sites across 168 countries, divided into cultural, natural, and mixed categories. Cultural sites include architectural masterpieces like the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China, while natural sites encompass unique ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef and the Galapagos Islands.

Obtaining World Heritage status brings significant benefits. Listed sites attract millions of tourists annually, generating substantial revenue for local economies. The designation also provides access to international funding for conservation and raises public awareness about the importance of preservation. However, increased tourism can paradoxically threaten the very sites it celebrates. Angkor Wat in Cambodia receives over 2.5 million visitors per year, and the constant foot traffic has caused erosion and structural damage to the ancient temples.

The process of selecting World Heritage Sites has also faced criticism for cultural bias. European countries hold a disproportionate number of listings, with Italy alone having 59 sites compared to many African and Asian nations that have fewer than five. Critics argue that the selection criteria favor Western concepts of heritage, such as monumental architecture, over the intangible cultural practices valued by many non-Western societies. UNESCO has acknowledged this imbalance and introduced measures to encourage nominations from underrepresented regions.

Câu 1. The World Heritage List was established in ___.

A. 1952
B. 1962
C. 1972
D. 1982

Câu 2. How many sites are on the World Heritage List as of 2024?

A. 899
B. 999
C. 1,199
D. 1,399

Câu 3. The word "paradoxically" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. predictably
B. in a contradictory way
C. slowly
D. intentionally

Câu 4. How many visitors does Angkor Wat receive annually?

A. Over 1.5 million
B. Over 2.5 million
C. Over 3.5 million
D. Over 5 million

Câu 5. Italy has ___ World Heritage Sites.

A. 29
B. 39
C. 49
D. 59

Câu 6. Critics argue the selection criteria favor ___.

A. natural sites over cultural sites
B. Western concepts of heritage
C. small countries over large ones
D. modern architecture

Câu 7. Which is NOT a benefit of World Heritage status mentioned in the passage?

A. Attracting tourists
B. Access to international funding
C. Tax exemptions for local businesses
D. Raising public awareness

Câu 8. The word "intangible" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. physical and visible
B. not physical; unable to be touched
C. extremely valuable
D. ancient and traditional

Câu 9. It can be inferred that UNESCO ___.

A. refuses to acknowledge any criticism
B. recognizes the need for more balanced representation
C. plans to reduce the number of listed sites
D. only cares about European heritage

Câu 10. The main purpose of the passage is to ___.

A. list all World Heritage Sites
B. describe the World Heritage program, its benefits and criticisms
C. argue that tourism should be banned at heritage sites
D. explain how to nominate a site

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Passage 2: The Globalization of Food

The globalization of food has transformed eating habits worldwide. Dishes that were once confined to specific regions are now enjoyed across the globe: sushi restaurants operate in every major city, Mexican tacos are popular in Europe, and Korean kimchi has become a trendy health food in the United States. This culinary exchange has been driven by immigration, international trade, social media, and the growth of global restaurant chains.

The spread of global food culture has both positive and negative consequences. On the positive side, consumers now have access to a wider variety of nutritious foods and can experience diverse culinary traditions without traveling abroad. Cross-cultural food exchange has also created economic opportunities for immigrant communities who open restaurants and food businesses. However, globalization has also led to the homogenization of diets, with fast food chains replacing local food traditions in many countries. The World Health Organization has linked the global spread of Western-style diets — high in processed food, sugar, and saturated fat — to rising rates of obesity and diabetes in developing nations.

In response, a growing movement seeks to preserve and celebrate local food heritage. The Slow Food movement, founded in Italy in 1986, promotes local ingredients, traditional recipes, and sustainable farming. Countries like France and Japan have had their traditional cuisines recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. These efforts recognize that food is more than nutrition — it embodies cultural identity, community bonds, and centuries of accumulated knowledge about local ingredients and preparation methods.

Câu 11. Which food has become trendy in the US according to the passage?

A. French cheese
B. Korean kimchi
C. Indian curry
D. Italian pasta

Câu 12. The Slow Food movement was founded in ___.

A. France in 1976
B. Italy in 1986
C. Japan in 1996
D. Spain in 2006

Câu 13. The word "homogenization" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. improvement
B. diversification
C. making things more similar
D. localization

Câu 14. Western-style diets are linked to ___.

A. better health outcomes
B. rising obesity and diabetes
C. improved nutrition
D. lower food costs

Câu 15. Which factor has NOT driven food globalization?

A. Immigration
B. Space exploration
C. Social media
D. International trade

Câu 16. Food is described as embodying ___.

A. only nutritional value
B. cultural identity and community bonds
C. economic competition
D. scientific research

Câu 17. Which countries' cuisines are UNESCO intangible cultural heritage?

A. Germany and China
B. France and Japan
C. Italy and India
D. Mexico and Thailand

Câu 18. The word "embodies" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. rejects
B. destroys
C. represents and expresses
D. hides

Câu 19. It can be inferred that the author believes ___.

A. all traditional food should be frozen in time
B. food globalization has both benefits and risks to preserve against
C. fast food is superior to local cuisine
D. food has no cultural significance

Câu 20. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. recipes from around the world
B. how food globalization has changed eating habits, with its effects
C. the history of the Slow Food movement
D. why people should only eat local food

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Passage 3: Music and the Brain

Neuroscience research has revealed that music engages the brain more extensively than almost any other activity. When a person listens to music, multiple brain regions activate simultaneously: the auditory cortex processes sound, the motor cortex responds to rhythm, the frontal lobe analyzes song structure, and the limbic system generates emotional responses. Playing a musical instrument is even more demanding, requiring the coordination of visual, auditory, and motor systems in real time.

The effects of music on cognitive development have attracted particular attention. A landmark study at the University of Toronto found that children who received music lessons for one year showed significantly greater improvements in IQ scores compared to children who received drama lessons or no extra instruction. Other research has demonstrated that musical training strengthens working memory, attention span, and spatial reasoning skills. These benefits appear to persist into adulthood, with elderly musicians showing slower rates of cognitive decline than non-musicians.

Music therapy has emerged as an evidence-based treatment for a variety of conditions. For patients with Parkinson's disease, rhythmic auditory stimulation can improve walking speed and coordination. For individuals recovering from stroke, singing can help restore speech when conventional speech therapy has failed, because singing and speaking use different neural pathways. In dementia care, familiar music can trigger vivid memories and temporarily restore communication in patients who have otherwise lost the ability to speak. These applications demonstrate that music is not merely entertainment but a powerful tool for healing and cognitive enhancement.

Câu 21. When listening to music, the limbic system generates ___.

A. visual images
B. motor responses
C. emotional responses
D. speech

Câu 22. The University of Toronto study found that music lessons improved ___.

A. physical fitness
B. IQ scores
C. social skills only
D. handwriting

Câu 23. Elderly musicians show ___.

A. faster cognitive decline
B. no difference from non-musicians
C. slower cognitive decline
D. more memory problems

Câu 24. The word "landmark" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. ordinary
B. groundbreaking and significant
C. controversial
D. incomplete

Câu 25. For Parkinson's patients, rhythmic stimulation can improve ___.

A. vision
B. walking speed and coordination
C. reading ability
D. mathematical skills

Câu 26. Singing can help stroke patients because ___.

A. it requires no brain activity
B. singing and speaking use different neural pathways
C. it is easier than walking
D. doctors prefer it

Câu 27. Familiar music can help dementia patients by ___.

A. curing the disease
B. triggering memories and restoring communication
C. improving their eyesight
D. increasing their appetite

Câu 28. The word "persist" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. disappear
B. continue
C. decrease
D. fluctuate

Câu 29. It can be inferred that the author considers music ___.

A. a waste of time for children
B. a powerful cognitive and therapeutic tool
C. only useful for professional musicians
D. less important than sports

Câu 30. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how to play musical instruments
B. the effects of music on the brain and its therapeutic applications
C. the history of music from ancient times
D. why some people dislike music

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Passage 4: Digital Museums

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a transformation that was already underway in the museum world: the shift toward digital access. When museums closed their doors during lockdowns, many turned to virtual tours, online exhibitions, and social media to maintain engagement with their audiences. The Louvre in Paris saw its online visitors increase from 400,000 to over 10 million per month during the first lockdown in 2020. This digital pivot has continued even as physical museums have reopened, fundamentally changing how cultural institutions think about accessibility and audience engagement.

Digital technology offers museums unprecedented opportunities to reach new audiences. High-resolution scanning and 3D modeling allow visitors to examine artifacts in detail that would be impossible behind glass cases. Google Arts and Culture has partnered with over 2,000 museums to create virtual exhibitions accessible to anyone with an internet connection. For people in remote areas, those with physical disabilities, or those who simply cannot afford international travel, digital museums democratize access to cultural heritage that was previously available only to a privileged few.

However, critics argue that digital experiences cannot replicate the emotional impact of encountering original artworks in person. Standing before Michelangelo's David or walking through the ancient halls of the British Museum creates a sense of awe and connection to history that a screen cannot fully convey. There are also concerns about digital equity: while virtual museums are theoretically accessible to all, the 2.7 billion people worldwide who lack internet access are excluded from these benefits. Museums must therefore pursue hybrid strategies that embrace digital innovation while preserving the irreplaceable experience of physical engagement with art and history.

Câu 31. The Louvre's online visitors increased to ___ per month during lockdown.

A. 1 million
B. 5 million
C. 10 million
D. 20 million

Câu 32. Google Arts and Culture has partnered with ___.

A. over 500 museums
B. over 1,000 museums
C. over 2,000 museums
D. over 5,000 museums

Câu 33. The word "democratize" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. restrict
B. make available to everyone
C. complicate
D. commercialize

Câu 34. How many people worldwide lack internet access?

A. 1.7 billion
B. 2.7 billion
C. 3.7 billion
D. 4.7 billion

Câu 35. The word "replicate" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. improve
B. reproduce exactly
C. simplify
D. criticize

Câu 36. Digital museums especially benefit people who ___.

A. prefer expensive travel
B. live in remote areas or have disabilities
C. dislike technology
D. work in museums

Câu 37. The phrase "digital pivot" in paragraph 1 refers to ___.

A. a new type of museum building
B. the shift toward digital access
C. a brand of computer
D. a government policy

Câu 38. Critics of digital museums argue that screens cannot fully convey ___.

A. the price of artworks
B. the age of artifacts
C. the emotional impact of seeing originals in person
D. the size of museum buildings

Câu 39. It can be inferred that the author recommends ___.

A. closing all physical museums
B. a hybrid approach combining digital and physical
C. banning virtual tours
D. only investing in technology

Câu 40. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. the architecture of famous museums
B. the rise of digital museums, their benefits and limitations
C. how to become a museum curator
D. the history of the Louvre

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Xem đáp án và giải thích chi tiết tại bài tiếp theo.

Đáp án đề Reading VSTEP số 9

Bảng đáp án

Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án
1	C	11	B	21	C	31	C
2	C	12	B	22	B	32	C
3	B	13	C	23	C	33	B
4	B	14	B	24	B	34	B
5	D	15	B	25	B	35	B
6	B	16	B	26	B	36	B
7	C	17	B	27	B	37	B
8	B	18	C	28	B	38	C
9	B	19	B	29	B	39	B
10	B	20	B	30	B	40	B

Giải thích 10 câu khó nhất

Câu 3 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Paradoxically, increased tourism can threaten the very sites it celebrates" — paradoxically nghĩa là một cách nghịch lý, mâu thuẫn (in a contradictory way). Du lịch vừa mang lại lợi ích kinh tế vừa gây hại cho di sản — đó là nghịch lý.

Câu 8 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Intangible cultural practices" — intangible nghĩa là phi vật thể, không thể chạm vào (not physical). Ví dụ: lễ hội, phong tục, nghệ thuật truyền khẩu — khác với di sản vật thể như đền đài.

Câu 13 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Homogenization of diets" — homogenization nghĩa là đồng nhất hóa, làm cho mọi thứ giống nhau (making things more similar). Chế độ ăn toàn cầu ngày càng giống nhau do chuỗi fast food.

Câu 18 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Food embodies cultural identity" — embody nghĩa là thể hiện, biểu đạt (represent and express). Ẩm thực không chỉ là dinh dưỡng mà còn thể hiện bản sắc văn hóa.

Câu 24 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "A landmark study" — landmark nghĩa là mang tính bước ngoặt, quan trọng (groundbreaking and significant). Nghiên cứu này đã thay đổi cách hiểu về tác động của âm nhạc lên trí tuệ.

Câu 26 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Detail/Reasoning. Câu gốc: "singing can help restore speech... because singing and speaking use different neural pathways." Khi đường dẫn thần kinh cho lời nói bị tổn thương (do đột quỵ), hát sử dụng đường khác — giúp bệnh nhân giao tiếp bằng cách "vòng" qua con đường thần kinh còn nguyên vẹn.

Câu 28 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "These benefits appear to persist into adulthood" — persist nghĩa là kéo dài, tiếp tục (continue). Lợi ích của việc học nhạc không mất đi khi trưởng thành mà vẫn duy trì.

Câu 33 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Digital museums democratize access to cultural heritage" — democratize nghĩa là dân chủ hóa, mở rộng cho tất cả mọi người (make available to everyone). Trước đây chỉ người giàu mới được xem; giờ ai cũng xem được qua mạng.

Câu 35 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Cannot replicate the emotional impact" — replicate nghĩa là tái tạo chính xác, sao chép (reproduce exactly). Màn hình không thể tái tạo cảm giác đứng trước tác phẩm gốc.

Câu 39 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Câu cuối: "Museums must therefore pursue hybrid strategies that embrace digital innovation while preserving... physical engagement." Tác giả khuyến nghị kết hợp cả hai: số hóa và trải nghiệm trực tiếp.

Đề luyện Reading VSTEP số 10 — Thời gian: 60 phút

Đề gồm 4 bài đọc, mỗi bài 10 câu hỏi trắc nghiệm (A, B, C, D). Tổng cộng 40 câu. Hãy hoàn thành trong 60 phút.

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Passage 1: Behavioral Economics

Traditional economic theory assumes that people make rational decisions based on complete information, always choosing the option that maximizes their benefit. Behavioral economics, pioneered by psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, challenges this assumption by demonstrating that human decision-making is systematically influenced by cognitive biases — mental shortcuts that often lead to irrational choices.

One of the most well-documented biases is loss aversion: people feel the pain of losing something approximately twice as strongly as the pleasure of gaining something of equal value. This explains why investors often hold onto losing stocks too long, hoping to avoid realizing a loss, while selling winning stocks too quickly to lock in gains. Another powerful bias is the anchoring effect, where people rely too heavily on the first piece of information they encounter. For example, a shirt originally priced at $100 and marked down to $60 seems like a bargain, even if the shirt is only worth $40.

Governments and organizations have applied these insights through "nudge" policies — subtle changes in how choices are presented that steer people toward better decisions without restricting their freedom. For instance, automatically enrolling employees in retirement savings plans with the option to opt out has dramatically increased participation rates compared to systems that require people to actively opt in. Similarly, placing healthy food options at eye level in cafeterias increases their consumption. Critics argue that nudging can be manipulative and that people should be educated to make their own informed decisions rather than being subtly guided by policymakers.

Câu 1. Traditional economic theory assumes people are ___.

A. irrational
B. rational
C. emotional
D. unpredictable

Câu 2. Who pioneered behavioral economics?

A. Adam Smith and Karl Marx
B. Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky
C. John Maynard Keynes
D. Milton Friedman

Câu 3. Loss aversion means people feel losses ___.

A. less than gains
B. about twice as strongly as equivalent gains
C. exactly the same as gains
D. only when they are large

Câu 4. The word "anchoring" in paragraph 2 refers to ___.

A. a nautical technique
B. relying too heavily on the first information encountered
C. a type of investment strategy
D. making decisions quickly

Câu 5. A "nudge" policy works by ___.

A. forcing people to make specific choices
B. banning unhealthy options
C. subtly changing how choices are presented
D. eliminating all options except one

Câu 6. Auto-enrolling employees in savings plans increases participation because ___.

A. employees are forced to save
B. people tend to stick with the default option
C. it reduces their salary
D. savings plans become mandatory

Câu 7. The word "systematically" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. randomly
B. occasionally
C. in a consistent and predictable pattern
D. accidentally

Câu 8. Critics of nudging argue that it ___.

A. is too expensive
B. can be manipulative
C. never works
D. is illegal in most countries

Câu 9. It can be inferred that the author ___.

A. rejects behavioral economics entirely
B. finds behavioral economics insightful but notes valid criticisms
C. believes traditional economics is always correct
D. thinks nudging should be mandatory

Câu 10. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how to invest in the stock market
B. behavioral economics, cognitive biases, and nudge policies
C. the biography of Daniel Kahneman
D. why traditional economics is perfect

---

Passage 2: Bioethics

Advances in biotechnology have raised profound ethical questions that society is only beginning to address. The development of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology, which allows scientists to precisely modify DNA sequences, has opened possibilities that range from curing genetic diseases to enhancing human capabilities. In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui shocked the world by announcing that he had used CRISPR to edit the genes of twin girls to make them resistant to HIV, an experiment widely condemned by the scientific community as reckless and premature.

The central ethical debate around gene editing concerns the distinction between therapy and enhancement. Most ethicists agree that using gene editing to cure serious genetic diseases — such as sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis — is morally justifiable. However, using the same technology to enhance traits like intelligence, athletic ability, or physical appearance raises troubling questions about social justice. If genetic enhancements become available only to wealthy families, they could create a new form of biological inequality that is literally written into human DNA and passed down through generations.

Other bioethical challenges include the use of artificial intelligence in medical decision-making, the ethics of organ harvesting from genetically modified animals, and the implications of extending human lifespan significantly. As technology advances faster than the ethical frameworks needed to govern it, there is an urgent need for international cooperation to establish guidelines that promote beneficial innovation while preventing harm. The choices society makes about these technologies will shape not only medicine but the very definition of what it means to be human.

Câu 11. CRISPR-Cas9 is a technology for ___.

A. building computers
B. editing genes
C. manufacturing drugs
D. imaging the brain

Câu 12. He Jiankui's experiment was condemned because it was ___.

A. too expensive
B. reckless and premature
C. too slow
D. approved by all scientists

Câu 13. Most ethicists agree that gene editing for ___ is justifiable.

A. cosmetic enhancement
B. athletic performance
C. curing serious genetic diseases
D. increasing intelligence

Câu 14. The word "reckless" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. careful
B. irresponsible and dangerous
C. innovative
D. well-planned

Câu 15. Genetic enhancements available only to the wealthy could create ___.

A. universal equality
B. biological inequality
C. better healthcare for all
D. lower costs for everyone

Câu 16. The passage mentions organ harvesting from ___.

A. human donors only
B. genetically modified animals
C. artificial organs
D. deceased patients

Câu 17. The word "premature" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. too late
B. well-timed
C. too early
D. unnecessary

Câu 18. The author argues that technology advances ___.

A. at the same pace as ethical frameworks
B. slower than regulations
C. faster than the ethical frameworks to govern it
D. only in wealthy countries

Câu 19. It can be inferred that the author believes bioethics ___.

A. is unnecessary
B. requires international cooperation
C. should be left to scientists alone
D. will resolve itself naturally

Câu 20. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. the history of DNA discovery
B. ethical challenges raised by biotechnology advances
C. how CRISPR works technically
D. why gene editing should be banned

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Passage 3: Social Media and Mental Health

The relationship between social media use and mental health has become one of the most researched and debated topics in psychology. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2023 examined 68 studies involving over 72,000 participants and found a small but statistically significant association between heavy social media use and increased rates of depression and anxiety, particularly among adolescents aged 13 to 17.

Several mechanisms may explain this association. Social comparison theory suggests that people evaluate themselves by comparing with others, and social media presents a curated, idealized version of other people's lives that makes viewers feel inadequate. The constant stream of notifications creates a cycle of intermittent reinforcement — similar to slot machines — that can lead to compulsive checking behaviors. Cyberbullying, which affects approximately 37 percent of young people globally, is another pathway through which social media harms mental health. Sleep disruption caused by late-night screen use compounds these effects, as poor sleep is a well-established risk factor for depression.

However, the relationship between social media and mental health is not entirely negative. Social media can provide vital support networks for marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ youth in unsupportive environments and individuals with rare medical conditions who find online communities of people with shared experiences. The key factor appears to be how social media is used rather than whether it is used at all. Passive consumption — scrolling through feeds without interacting — is most strongly associated with negative outcomes, while active engagement — posting content, commenting, and maintaining relationships — can have positive effects on well-being.

Câu 21. The JAMA meta-analysis examined ___ studies.

A. 38
B. 48
C. 68
D. 88

Câu 22. The association between social media and depression was ___.

A. not found
B. small but statistically significant
C. extremely strong
D. only found in adults

Câu 23. Social comparison theory suggests that people ___.

A. avoid comparing themselves to others
B. compare themselves only to family
C. evaluate themselves by comparing with others
D. never feel inadequate

Câu 24. The word "curated" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. random and unfiltered
B. carefully selected and presented
C. ugly and unattractive
D. truthful and honest

Câu 25. Cyberbullying affects approximately ___ of young people globally.

A. 17 percent
B. 27 percent
C. 37 percent
D. 47 percent

Câu 26. "Intermittent reinforcement" is compared to ___.

A. traditional education
B. slot machines
C. physical exercise
D. reading books

Câu 27. The word "compounds" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. solves
B. makes worse
C. eliminates
D. has no effect on

Câu 28. Social media can be positive for ___.

A. everyone equally
B. marginalized groups seeking support
C. people who never use it
D. only professional users

Câu 29. Passive social media consumption is associated with ___.

A. positive mental health
B. negative outcomes
C. no effects at all
D. improved sleep

Câu 30. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how to build a social media platform
B. the complex relationship between social media and mental health
C. why all social media should be banned
D. the history of social networking

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Passage 4: Smart Cities

Smart cities use digital technology and data analytics to improve the efficiency of urban services and the quality of life for residents. Sensors embedded throughout the city infrastructure collect real-time data on traffic flow, air quality, energy consumption, and waste management. This information is analyzed by central platforms that can optimize traffic signals to reduce congestion, route waste collection trucks more efficiently, and detect water leaks before they cause damage. Barcelona, often cited as a leading smart city, has saved $58 million annually through smart water management and reduced water consumption by 25 percent.

The concept of smart cities extends beyond infrastructure management to include citizen engagement and governance. Digital platforms allow residents to report problems, access government services, and participate in decision-making processes through online consultations. Estonia, a pioneer in digital governance, enables citizens to vote, pay taxes, access medical records, and sign legal documents online through a secure digital identity system. This "e-governance" model has reduced bureaucracy and increased transparency, serving as a model for countries worldwide.

Critics of smart cities raise important concerns about privacy and surveillance. The vast network of sensors and cameras required for smart city systems generates enormous amounts of data about citizens' movements, habits, and behaviors. In the wrong hands, this data could be used for mass surveillance or commercial exploitation. China's social credit system, which monitors citizens' behavior and assigns scores that affect their access to services, illustrates the potential for smart city technology to become a tool of authoritarian control. Building truly smart cities requires not just technological sophistication but robust privacy protections, transparent data governance, and meaningful citizen oversight.

Câu 31. Barcelona saved ___ annually through smart water management.

A. $28 million
B. $38 million
C. $58 million
D. $78 million

Câu 32. Smart cities use ___ to collect data.

A. human observers
B. sensors embedded in infrastructure
C. satellite imaging only
D. citizen surveys

Câu 33. Estonia is a pioneer in ___.

A. smart transportation
B. digital governance
C. renewable energy
D. urban farming

Câu 34. The word "bureaucracy" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. democracy
B. excessive administrative procedures
C. transparency
D. efficiency

Câu 35. China's social credit system ___.

A. is praised by all countries
B. monitors behavior and assigns scores
C. only tracks financial transactions
D. is voluntary

Câu 36. Smart city data in the wrong hands could lead to ___.

A. better public services
B. mass surveillance
C. improved healthcare
D. reduced crime

Câu 37. The word "robust" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to ___.

A. weak
B. strong and effective
C. temporary
D. optional

Câu 38. Barcelona reduced water consumption by ___.

A. 10 percent
B. 15 percent
C. 25 percent
D. 35 percent

Câu 39. It can be inferred that truly smart cities need ___.

A. only advanced technology
B. technology plus privacy protections and citizen oversight
C. no data collection at all
D. authoritarian governance

Câu 40. The passage mainly discusses ___.

A. how to build sensors
B. the potential and risks of smart city technology
C. why cities should avoid technology
D. the history of urbanization

---

Xem đáp án và giải thích chi tiết tại bài tiếp theo.

Đáp án đề Reading VSTEP số 10

Bảng đáp án

Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án	Câu	Đáp án
1	B	11	B	21	C	31	C
2	B	12	B	22	B	32	B
3	B	13	C	23	C	33	B
4	B	14	B	24	B	34	B
5	C	15	B	25	C	35	B
6	B	16	B	26	B	36	B
7	C	17	C	27	B	37	B
8	B	18	C	28	B	38	C
9	B	19	B	29	B	39	B
10	B	20	B	30	B	40	B

Giải thích 10 câu khó nhất

Câu 4 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "The anchoring effect, where people rely too heavily on the first piece of information they encounter" — anchoring là hiệu ứng neo, thiên kiến nhận thức khiến người ta bám vào thông tin đầu tiên nhận được, dù thông tin đó có thể không liên quan.

Câu 7 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Systematically influenced by cognitive biases" — systematically nghĩa là một cách có hệ thống, theo mẫu nhất quán và dự đoán được (in a consistent and predictable pattern). Thiên kiến nhận thức không ngẫu nhiên mà lặp lại theo quy luật.

Câu 9 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Tác giả giải thích chi tiết các thiên kiến và ứng dụng nudge, nhưng cũng nêu ý kiến phê bình ("Critics argue that nudging can be manipulative"). Thái độ: thấy giá trị nhưng thừa nhận có phản biện hợp lý.

Câu 14 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Widely condemned as reckless and premature" — reckless nghĩa là liều lĩnh, thiếu trách nhiệm (irresponsible and dangerous). Thí nghiệm chỉnh sửa gene trên người khi công nghệ chưa đủ an toàn là hành vi reckless.

Câu 17 (Đáp án: C)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Premature" nghĩa là quá sớm (too early). He Jiankui thực hiện thí nghiệm khi cộng đồng khoa học chưa sẵn sàng và chưa có đủ bằng chứng an toàn.

Câu 24 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "A curated, idealized version of other people's lives" — curated nghĩa là được chọn lọc cẩn thận (carefully selected and presented). Người dùng mạng xã hội chỉ đăng những khoảnh khắc đẹp nhất, tạo hình ảnh hoàn hảo không thực.

Câu 27 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Sleep disruption compounds these effects" — compound (động từ) nghĩa là làm trầm trọng thêm (make worse). Thiếu ngủ cộng hưởng với tác động tiêu cực của mạng xã hội, khiến tình trạng tệ hơn.

Câu 34 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Reduced bureaucracy" — bureaucracy nghĩa là bộ máy hành chính cồng kềnh, thủ tục rườm rà (excessive administrative procedures). E-governance giúp giảm thủ tục giấy tờ phức tạp.

Câu 37 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Vocabulary in Context. "Robust privacy protections" — robust nghĩa là mạnh mẽ, hiệu quả, chắc chắn (strong and effective). Bảo vệ quyền riêng tư cần phải vững chắc, không phải hình thức.

Câu 39 (Đáp án: B)

Dạng: Inference. Câu cuối: "Building truly smart cities requires not just technological sophistication but robust privacy protections, transparent data governance, and meaningful citizen oversight." Suy ra: thành phố thông minh cần cả công nghệ lẫn bảo vệ quyền riêng tư và giám sát của công dân.