Bài Tập Trắc Nghiệm Chuyên Đề: Diễn đạt tương đương câu trích từ bài đọc (Tiếng Anh Lớp 10, 11, 12)

Green living is a lifestyle that prioritizes sustainability and environmental consciousness. It encompasses a range of practices aimed at reducing one's ecological footprint and promoting a harmonious coexistence with nature. Individuals who embrace green living make conscious choices in various aspects of their lives to minimize waste, conserve resources, and promote a healthier planet.

One facet of green living involves adopting eco-friendly habits at home. This includes implementing energy-efficient measures such as using LED light bulbs, insulating homes, and investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels. Additionally, practicing responsible waste management by recycling, composting, and reducing single-use plastics is crucial in minimizing landfill waste and preserving natural resources.

Green living extends beyond the confines of one's home. People committed to this lifestyle opt for sustainable transportation methods, such as biking, walking, or using public transportation whenever possible. They also support local and organic food options, reducing their carbon footprint by consuming food produced with minimal pesticide use and transportation emissions. By embracing green living, individuals contribute to the collective effort to combat climate change and protect ecosystems. This lifestyle promotes a more sustainable and balanced future, where the needs of both current and future generations are met without compromising the health of the planet.

(Adapted from https://lazi.vn/quiz/d/1031283/)

Urbanization, the movement of people from rural areas to cities, is one of the most significant global phenomena of the 21st century. This demographic shift is primarily driven by the promise of better job opportunities, improved living standards, and access to modern infrastructure. Cities, once small settlements, have now turned into bustling metropolises, home to millions of people. However, while urbanization offers numerous benefits, it also brings a whole new ball game in terms of challenges that must be addressed for long-term sustainability.

As more people migrate to cities, the strain on urban infrastructure becomes evident[I]. Overcrowding, traffic congestion, and pollution are common problems faced by many cities today[II]. In addition, the expansion of cities often leads to the destruction of natural habitats, [III]threatening biodiversity and contributing to environmental degradation. Furthermore, [IV]. As a result, many urban residents find themselves living in informal settlements or slums, where basic needs are not met.

On the other hand, urbanization also creates opportunities for innovation and growth. Cities are centers of economic activity, technological advancement, and cultural exchange. The concentration of resources and human capital can lead to the development of groundbreaking solutions for societal challenges. Smart cities, which use technology to improve urban living, are becoming more common. Additionally, urbanization encourages the development of sustainable practices, such as green architecture and energy-efficient transportation systems.

In conclusion, urbanization is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a balance between growth and sustainability. While it offers substantial opportunities for economic development and social progress, it also brings about significant challenges that need innovative solutions. As we move toward the future, it is crucial to create cities that are not only economically viable but also environmentally sustainable and inclusive.

(Adapted from https://loigiaihay.com/bai-tap-320189.html)

As we continue to face the impacts of climate change, having a green environment has become increasingly important to the future of our society. To achieve this, the world is shifting towards green energy, and two particular types of energy at the centre of this movement are solar power and wind power.

Solar power is all about harnessing the energy of the sun by using solar panels to convert sunlight into usable electricity. This highly efficient form of energy produces zero emissions, so it can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Moreover, solar panels are perfect for installation on a small scale, such as in private homes, since they require very little maintenance and have a long lifespan. However, the ability to generate solar power depends on the time of day and weather conditions. This means that solar panels are often less useful if they are installed in places where sunny weather is not typical.

Wind power, on the other hand, involves converting the energy of the wind into electricity using large turbines. Wind power doesn't produce any greenhouse gases, but it is not ideal for private use since turbines require consistent care. However, wind farms can be installed on a large scale and are able to produce electricity continuously regardless of the time of day. This means that if there were more investments in wind power, it could be a viable way to provide energy for major cities and even for whole regions.

Wind and solar power contribute significantly to a green environment by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, helping us cut down on pollution and slow climate change. Additionally, using renewable energy sources helps promote spending on sustainable development by creating new career opportunities in the green energy sector.

For now, the biggest challenge of adopting green energy is the costs associated with installation and infrastructure, but the benefits unquestionably outweigh the downsides. If we want to stop the climate crisis and create a better and more sustainable future, green energy sources will undoubtedly be the key.

(Adapted from Bright)

Read the 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 from 20 to 29.
The Science Behind Digital Detox: Fact or Fashion?
In recent years, the concept of a “digital detox”- a period during which an individual refrains from using electronic devices - has surged in popularity. From luxury retreats that confiscate guests’ smartphones to mobile applications designed to limit screen time, the market for “unplugging” is expanding. While the idea of resetting the brain by disconnecting from technology is appealing to many chronically connected users, researchers are now questioning whether this practice provides genuine psychological benefits or is merely a passing health trend.
To understand the phenomenon, one must first define its scope. For some, a digital detox involves complete abstention from all digital tools for a week. For others, it is more targeted, such as silencing notifications or deleting a specific social media app that consumes excessive time. The primary motivations behind these efforts are usually to break compulsive habits, reclaim focus, and redirect energy toward more productive, real-world activities. Proponents of the practice claim that it reduces stress and improves mental clarity.
However, the growing demand for these interventions does not necessarily guarantee their effectiveness. Much of the support for digital detoxing comes from anecdotal evidence and online testimonials. While these positive reviews can be persuasive, they are often biased. For instance, an individual who invests a significant amount of money in an expensive tech-free retreat may feel psychologically compelled to report a positive outcome to justify the expense. This is a common bias in self-reported wellness data.
To determine if digital detoxing truly works, scientific scrutiny is essential. [I] Controlled experimental studies are needed to distinguish between the “placebo effect” of taking a vacation and the actual benefits of removing technology. [II] Early research suggests that while temporary disconnection can lower immediate anxiety, the effects often vanish once the individual returns to their normal routine.
[III] Therefore, the long-term solution may not be a total detox, but rather the development of sustainable digital habits. [IV] As the debate continues, the focus is shifting from “quitting” technology to finding a healthier balance in an increasingly digital world.
(Adapted from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/digital-detox#benefits)

The arrival of a major cruise liner in Hạ Long on January 1 marked a buoyant start to the 2026 cruise tourism season in Quảng Ninh Province, with thousands of overseas visitors stepping ashore on the first morning of the year. More than 3,000 international tourists aboard the Malta-flagged Celebrity Solstice docked at Hạ Long International Cruise Port, ushering in the New Year and opening the peak season for cruise tourism.
The Party Secretary of Quảng Ninh Province, together with leaders of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, attended a welcoming ceremony and presented flowers to the visitors. The event created a cordial and welcoming environment to begin the year. Many tourists expressed admiration for the hospitality and said they were impressed by the province's efforts to welcome international guests.
A visitor from Spain described his experience as a memorable start to 2026, highlighting the breathtaking scenery of Hạ Long Bay, fresh air, and favorable climatic conditions. He praised Vietnam as a beautiful country with friendly people and distinctive cuisine. Visitors from Mexico also appreciated the bay's remarkable natural beauty and noted that their stay had left lasting memories. During their two-day visit, tourists were scheduled to explore key attractions, including the Quảng Ninh Museum, Hạ Long Bay, and Yên Đức rural village. Some groups planned to continue travelling to other northern provinces, such as Hà Nội and Ninh Bình.
The Celebrity Solstice sails on a regional itinerary linking Thailand, Phú Mỹ, Chân Mây, Hạ Long, and Hong Kong, accommodating passengers from Europe, the United States, and Asia. With a modern port system, abundant natural and cultural resources, and a strategic location on major maritime routes, Quảng Ninh is regarded as an appealing destination for both domestic and international cruise tourism. Cruise tourism is expected to play a pivotal role in promoting local culture, stimulating economic growth, and supporting sustainable tourism development in the province.
(Adapted from https://www.vietnamnews.vn)

Để hiểu rõ hiện tượng này, trước hết cần xác định phạm vi của nó. Với một số người, cai nghiện kỹ thuật số đồng nghĩa với việc hoàn toàn không sử dụng bất kỳ công cụ số nào trong suốt một tuần. Với những người khác, đó là cách tiếp cận có chọn lọc hơn, chẳng hạn như tắt thông báo hoặc xóa một ứng dụng mạng xã hội cụ thể đang tiêu tốn quá nhiều thời gian. Động lực chính đằng sau những nỗ lực này thường là nhằm phá vỡ các thói quen mang tính cưỡng ép, lấy lại sự tập trung và chuyển hướng năng lượng sang những hoạt động thực tế, hiệu quả hơn. Những người ủng hộ cho rằng phương pháp này giúp giảm căng thẳng và cải thiện sự minh mẫn về tinh thần.

Tuy nhiên, nhu cầu ngày càng tăng đối với các biện pháp can thiệp như vậy không đồng nghĩa với việc chúng thực sự hiệu quả. Phần lớn sự ủng hộ dành cho việc cai nghiện kỹ thuật số xuất phát từ các câu chuyện truyền miệng và những lời chứng thực trên mạng. Mặc dù các đánh giá tích cực này có sức thuyết phục, chúng thường mang tính thiên lệch. Chẳng hạn, một người đã bỏ ra số tiền đáng kể để tham gia một kỳ nghỉ không công nghệ đắt đỏ có thể chịu áp lực tâm lý phải báo cáo kết quả tích cực nhằm biện minh cho khoản chi phí đó. Đây là một dạng thiên lệch phổ biến trong dữ liệu tự báo cáo liên quan đến sức khỏe.

Để xác định liệu cai nghiện kỹ thuật số có thực sự hiệu quả hay không, việc xem xét dưới góc độ khoa học là điều không thể thiếu. [I] Cần có các nghiên cứu thực nghiệm được kiểm soát nhằm phân biệt giữa “hiệu ứng giả dược” của việc đi nghỉ dưỡng và những lợi ích thực sự đến từ việc loại bỏ công nghệ. [II] Các nghiên cứu ban đầu cho thấy rằng, mặc dù việc tạm thời ngắt kết nối có thể làm giảm lo âu tức thời, nhưng những tác động này thường nhanh chóng biến mất khi cá nhân quay trở lại nhịp sinh hoạt thường ngày.

[III] Vì vậy, giải pháp lâu dài có lẽ không nằm ở việc “cai” hoàn toàn, mà ở việc hình thành những thói quen sử dụng công nghệ bền vững. [IV] Khi cuộc tranh luận vẫn tiếp diễn, trọng tâm đang dần chuyển từ việc “từ bỏ” công nghệ sang việc tìm kiếm một sự cân bằng lành mạnh hơn trong một thế giới ngày càng số hóa.

Peer Pressure Among Youth

Peer pressure can be particularly prevalent among teenagers, who are at a vulnerable stage of development and seeking their identity. It is a powerful force that can significantly impact the thoughts, actions, and behaviors of teenagers. During adolescence, individuals strive for acceptance and belonging, making them particularly susceptible to the influence of their peers. Understanding the nature of peer pressure and its effects is essential for supporting teenagers in navigating this challenging aspect of their social lives.
One aspect of peer pressure is the pressure to [u]conform[/u] to the norms and expectations of a social group. Teenagers may feel compelled to adopt certain behaviors, preferences, or attitudes to fit in and avoid [u]social rejection[/u]. This conformity can range from relatively harmless choices, such as fashion trends, to more concerning behaviors, such as substance abuse or risky activities.
Peer pressure can manifest in both explicit and implicit ways. Direct peer pressure involves explicit requests, invitations, or demands from peers to engage in specific actions or behaviors. [u]Indirect or implicit peer pressure, on the other hand, is more subtle and involves observing others' behaviors and feeling pressured to conform without any explicit requests[/u]. This type of pressure can be equally influential and difficult for teenagers to navigate.
It is important to note that peer pressure can have positive or negative implications. Positive peer pressure can motivate teenagers to engage in healthy behaviors, such as participating in sports, pursuing academic goals, or engaging in community service. However, [u]it[/u] can lead to risky or harmful behaviors, such as substance abuse, delinquency, or academic underachievement.
Parents, educators, and mentors play a crucial role in helping teenagers navigate peer pressure. By fostering open and supportive relationships, adults can provide a safe space for teenagers to discuss their experiences and concerns. Promoting critical thinking, assertiveness skills, and self-confidence can empower teenagers to resist negative peer pressure and make independent, healthy choices.
(Adapted from "Peer Pressure: Its Influence on Teens and Decision Making”)

countries that promote these products. (IV) In fact, only about 5% of the sale price of a fair-trade chocolate bar (retailing for £1.73 in the UK) reaches the poor country.
Another significant trend is the rise of organic food, marketed as being free of chemicals, which appeals to consumers concerned about the dangers of chemicals in food. These chemicals are suspected of causing various health problems, including cancer and developmental issues in children. Despite these concerns, British farmers have not converted to organic farming in large enough numbers to meet the demand. As a result, supermarkets often import organic vegetables from distant countries, contributing to higher greenhouse gas emissions due to transportation. Environmentalists are now urging consumers to buy locally grown vegetables, even if they are pesticide-treated, suggesting a good wash can minimize the risk.
In recent years, a shift has occurred in how we handle waste. Once content to bury it in landfills or dump it at sea, we are now encouraged to recycle and treat waste as a resource. This shift has led to more widespread kerbside collections for various materials like paper, plastic, and metal. However, recycling has unintended consequences. Most of the UK's recyclables are sent to China or India, which incurs additional environmental costs from transportation. In these countries, workers often sort waste under dangerous conditions. Sometimes, materials that are sorted at home still end up in landfills because the market for them fluctuates.
While efforts to promote sustainability are commendable, they require constant evaluation to ensure they truly benefit people and the environment, rather than creating new inequalities or environmental harm.

On the surface, a desert appears to be one of the harshest environments on Earth yet a remarkable variety or plants have adapted to thrive in this dry climate. Despite their origins in different locations around the globe, desert plants have developed similar strategies for surviving in arid environments. Some plants have adapted in such a way that it is hard to tell them apart even though they belong to very different biological families, one evolution of certain survival strategies which are shared across geographic and biological boundaries.

In general, the survival strategies of desert plants can be divided into two kinds: adaptation for quick use of ephemeral resources ("maximum variance behavior") and adaptation for the best use of poor but more permanent resources ("minimum variance behavior"). The former strategy involves adaptation to environmental changes, such as seasonal availability of water. This is observed in desert annuals and perennials alike. Such plants tend to grow rapidly and produce many seeds under the right conditions. The latter strategy involves adaptation to the worst possible conditions, which can be seen in succulents, true xerophytes, and grasses. These plants usually grow slowly, use water efficiently, and exhibit passive cooling.

Water scarcity and heat are the key factors limiting the survival of desert plants. [I] Depending on strategies and physical adaptations, they can be divided into either succulents or drought-resistant plants. For the most part, succulents have evolved extensive, shallow root systems to quickly absorb water during brief periods of heavy rainfall. [II] Water is then stored in the fleshy tissue of their thick trunks or lobes, as well as in the roots. The cactus is a good example of a succulent. [III] To retain water, succulents have waxy coatings on their skin and a modified system of respiration. The stomata (surface pores), through which the plant takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, open only at night when temperatures are cooler and less water from the plant will evaporate. [IV] Unlike most other plants, a succulent stores all or most of its chlorophyll, the chemical essential to photosynthesis, in its stem, skin, or other outer tissues, rather than concentrating it in the leaves. Doing this places it in a strong, well-watered part of the plant, rather than in an appendage susceptible to drying out and dropping off.

Drought-resistant plants, or xerophytes, come in many forms including true xerophytes, deciduous plants, and grasses. Xerophytic shrubs, such as the five species of creosote bush, are the most abundant type of vegetation in most arid environments. They are able to withstand desiccation in severe droughts without dying. Some have evolved small leaves with special coatings to reduce loss of water through evaporation. Others have replaced leaves with thorns or spines. While succulent roots form shallow, dense webs, xerophytes tend to develop deep root networks that pull water out of soil other desert plants cannot reach. For example, the roots of the mesquite bush, said to have the deepest root systems among desert plants, can reach depths of up to eighty feet.

Succulents and xerophytes, on the one hand, have physically adapted to gather and retain water to survive long periods of drought. Drought-avoiding plants, on the other hand, escape unfavorable conditions by perishing. These include annuals and perennials. Because profuse seed development is crucial to the survival of most annual species, they tend to produce far more flowers than other types of desert plants. The desert marigold of the American southwest, for example, has adapted to seasonal changes in rainfall by growing rapidly, bursting into a brilliant display of yellow flowers, and then dropping a cascade of seeds before dying. In some cases, annuals complete their entire life cycle in a matter of a few weeks or months. Their seeds may remain inactive for up to ten years while waiting for wetter conditions. Perennials, such as the ocotillo, may go dormant during dry periods, spring to life when it rains, and then return to dormancy in a process that may occur up to five times per year.

(Adapted from Expert on Cambridge IELTS practice tests)

Italian City Restricts Foreign Food

Until recently, Italians mostly ate traditional dishes, but increased immigration over the past decade has introduced new culinary traditions. As a result, restaurants serving foreign food have become more common in several cities. (18) ______. For instance, the historic town of Lucca, located about 60 kilometers from Florence, (19) ______. According to local authorities, this measure aims to protect the town's cultural identity and maintain its long-established food traditions. Consequently, new foreign food businesses are no longer allowed in certain parts of the town.

The decision has triggered a heated debate. Italy's agriculture minister supports the ban, claiming that national culture must be defended in a globalized world. (20) ______. For example, tomatoes were first cultivated in South America, and some historians suggest that pasta may have Asian origins.

Politics also affects this issue, particularly in northern Italy, where right-wing parties often promote anti-immigration opinions. (21) ______, because low-quality imported products are sometimes sold as traditional Italian specialties. Although tradition is important, (22) ______. It allows new ideas, tastes, and experiences to enrich everyday life while respecting local heritage.

(Adapted from https://english-online.at/culture)

At the higher levels of education, too, there has been more emphasis on work-based learning, which links academic study closely to practical experience. At degree level, companies have linked with universities to create specialised qualifications, such as the BA in Distribution run between Middlesex University and Asda Supermarket. Such partnerships also exist at Masters and even doctorate level.
Technological advances have supported the growth of work-based learning. With blended learning, part of the course is online, allowing people to study without missing work. Older or retired employees can now act as tutors, mentors, or coaches in these programs. This training was common in fields such as nursing and teaching, but has now spread to careers which were traditionally not closely linked to education.
(Adapted from Mindset for Ielts 1)

(I) Many critics of the 2015 film Star Wars: The Force Awakens described it as predictable and too similar to the first Star Wars movie from 1977. (II) However, the similarity between these stories is not a coincidence. (III) In fact, both films follow an ancient structure known as the "hero myth." (IV) This structure is based on the ideas of Joseph Campbell, an American professor who studied myths worldwide. In his famous 1949 book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Campbell described a pattern called the "monomyth" - a common path that many heroes take in stories across cultures. According to this pattern, a hero leaves his normal life, faces challenges, and eventually returns home, changed by the journey. Stories like Homer's Odyssey and the Harry Potter series also follow this format.
Director George Lucas used Campbell's theory to shape Luke Skywalker's story around the 17 stages of the hero's journey. At first, Luke lives an ordinary life with his aunt and uncle. When he discovers a message in the robot R2D2 from Princess Leia, he receives his "call to adventure."
Campbell explained that heroes often resist this call at first. Soon, a mentor appears to guide them - for Luke, it's Obi-Wan Kenobi. With new allies like Han Solo and the droids, Luke enters the "special world" - the Death Star - where the main adventure unfolds.
Along the way, the hero must face many obstacles. A major turning point happens when the hero experiences a deep loss. For Luke, this is the death of Obi-Wan at the hands of Darth Vader. This moment gives him the strength to carry on and eventually destroy the Death Star. Luke returns home transformed, having taken his first steps toward becoming a Jedi. Later films, like The Return of the Jedi, continue his journey, with new mentors such as Yoda.
This classic structure helps explain why Star Wars resonates with so many - it's a modern retelling of an ancient tale, not just science fiction.
(Adapted from Star Wars and the hero myth_BBC)

(I) Many critics of the 2015 film Star Wars: The Force Awakens described it as predictable and too similar to the first Star Wars movie from 1977. (II) However, the similarity between these stories is not a coincidence. (III) In fact, both films follow an ancient structure known as the "hero myth." (IV) This structure is based on the ideas of Joseph Campbell, an American professor who studied myths worldwide. In his famous 1949 book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Campbell described a pattern called the "monomyth" - a common path that many heroes take in stories across cultures. According to this pattern, a hero leaves his normal life, faces challenges, and eventually returns home, changed by the journey. Stories like Homer's Odyssey and the Harry Potter series also follow this format.
Director George Lucas used Campbell's theory to shape Luke Skywalker's story around the 17 stages of the hero's journey. At first, Luke lives an ordinary life with his aunt and uncle. When he discovers a message in the robot R2D2 from Princess Leia, he receives his "call to adventure."
Campbell explained that heroes often resist this call at first. Soon, a mentor appears to guide them - for Luke, it's Obi-Wan Kenobi. With new allies like Han Solo and the droids, Luke enters the "special world" - the Death Star - where the main adventure unfolds.
Along the way, the hero must face many obstacles. A major turning point happens when the hero experiences a deep loss. For Luke, this is the death of Obi-Wan at the hands of Darth Vader. This moment gives him the strength to carry on and eventually destroy the Death Star. Luke returns home transformed, having taken his first steps toward becoming a Jedi. Later films, like The Return of the Jedi, continue his journey, with new mentors such as Yoda.
This classic structure helps explain why Star Wars resonates with so many - it's a modern retelling of an ancient tale, not just science fiction.
(Adapted from Star Wars and the hero myth_BBC)

Read the following passage about Rage Bait in the digital age and mark the letter A, B, C or D to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions.
RAGE BAIT IN THE DIGITAL AGE
“Rage bait” is a type of online content created to make people feel angry or upset. It has become increasingly common in today’s digital world, where attention is considered a valuable resource. Unlike traditional media, modern platforms rely on algorithms to determine what users see, often promoting content that receives the highest level of interaction.
Interestingly, although many users claim to dislike negative or manipulative content, they still interact with it regularly. Research suggests that emotions such as anger can push people to react quickly by commenting or sharing posts. This reaction is partly connected to human evolution, as anger once helped people respond to threats. However, in the online environment, such reactions are often triggered by minor or insignificant issues.
Social media algorithms play an important role in spreading rage bait. These systems aim to maximize user engagement and do not differentiate between positive and negative reactions. As a result, emotionally charged content is more likely to reach a wider audience. This situation encourages content creators to produce increasingly contentious posts in order to attract attention.
The impact of rage bait extends beyond online activity. Experts warn that continuous exposure to such content may lead to stress, anxiety, and a more negative perception of reality. Although some platforms have attempted to control harmful content, these efforts have had limited success. Therefore, users are advised to develop critical thinking skills and be more selective about the content they engage with.
(Adapted from IELTS Reading)

(I) Biohacking, broadly interpreted as the self-directed optimization of human biology, has gained attention in recent years as individuals seek to enhance performance beyond conventional health models. (II) Unlike traditional medical approaches, which are typically reactive and standardized, biohacking emphasizes personalization, continuous monitoring, and iterative self-experimentation. (III) This paradigm shift reflects a growing skepticism toward one-size-fits-all solutions and a preference for individualized strategies tailored to unique physiological responses. (IV)

Among the array of biohacking practices, grounding has attracted both advocacy and criticism. Proponents posit that direct physical contact with the Earth facilitates electron transfer, thereby neutralizing free radicals and mitigating oxidative stress. However, objectors argue that such claims, while theoretically plausible, are not yet substantiated by robust, large-scale empirical studies. Consequently, it occupies an ambiguous position at the intersection of anecdotal endorsement and scientific analysis.

Equally prominent is the strategic manipulation of light exposure, particularly in relation to circadian biology. Endogenous biological clocks, which regulate hormonal cycles and metabolic processes, are highly sensitive to environmental light cues. In contemporary settings characterized by pervasive artificial illumination, these rhythms are frequently disrupted, leading to a cascade of physiological and cognitive impairments. While morning sunlight exposure is often advocated as a corrective measure, the extent to which such interventions can fully realign circadian rhythms remains a subject of ongoing investigation.

Notwithstanding its potential, biohacking is fraught with cognitive and practical challenges. The reliance on self-tracked data, often derived from consumer-grade devices, raises concerns regarding accuracy and reproducibility. Moreover, the interpretive burden placed on individuals, who may lack formal scientific training, can result in misattribution of causality or overgeneralization of findings. Thus, while biohacking offers a strong framework for health optimization, its effectiveness depends on integrating evidence, critical reasoning, and methodological rigor.

(Adapted from https://functionalself.com.au/blog/biohacking)

[Passage beginning on a previous page not supplied. Supplied portion:] movements and encouraging cynicism toward social justice messages more broadly. This kind of reaction may increase public demands for transparency and corporate accountability. Ultimately, purplewashing exposes the gap between symbolic representation and genuine action. Only by stripping away the gloss can slogans be forced to bear the weight of real commitment.
(Adapted from https://girlpowertalk.com)

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education and everyday life, UNESCO has introduced two new AI competency frameworks for students and teachers. These initiatives aim to help countries equip learners and educators with the skills needed to engage with AI in a safe, ethical, and responsible manner, ensuring that education systems remain relevant in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Unlike conventional digital technologies, AI has the potential to profoundly transform societies, economies, and learning environments, while also raising complex ethical concerns related to fairness, privacy, transparency, and accountability. Its ability to imitate aspects of human reasoning further challenges human agency and decision-making. In response, UNESCO adopts a human-centred approach, emphasizing that AI should enhance human capabilities and intellectual growth rather than replace human intelligence or undermine the essential role of educators.

The new frameworks provide a strategic roadmap for countries to develop inclusive and forward-looking education policies. For students, the focus lies on four key competencies: understanding human roles in relation to AI, developing ethical awareness, acquiring foundational knowledge of AI applications, and fostering creativity through AI system design. At the same time, the teacher framework promotes professional development in areas such as ethical AI use, AI-supported teaching, and the use of AI for lifelong learning, upholding the principle that technology should complement rather than substitute the work of teachers.

Beyond classroom practices, UNESCO urges broader policy action, from expanded internet access to ethical and sustainable AI development, while cautioning against over reliance on AI to solve deeper educational challenges. Despite its promise, AI may struggle to overcome deeper educational challenges without sustained human and institutional backing. As it shapes the future, these frameworks call on countries to build education systems grounded in innovation, inclusion, and human values.
(Adapted from https://www.unesco.org)

Have you ever noticed that your mood changes with the weather? There's a scientific reason for this. The amount of sunlight you get can affect your brain. Sunlight helps the brain produce a chemical called serotonin, which makes you feel happy and calm. On dark or rainy days, your body makes less serotonin, so you might feel tired, sad, or less energetic.

The weather also affects our circadian rhythms, the internal body clock that controls sleep patterns. Less daylight can disrupt these rhythms, leading to poor sleep and mental health. In addition, sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for brain health. When there is little sunlight, like in winter, people may not get enough of this vitamin, and this can worsen symptoms of depression. On dark days, your body produces more melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep. Higher melatonin levels can make you feel drowsy and less motivated, reducing your desire to be active or social.

Some people are especially affected by seasonal changes. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during particular times of the year, usually in winter. Symptoms include low mood, exhaustion, sleep problems, and loss of appetite. On the other hand, very hot weather can also have a negative effect, increasing stress and triggering manic episodes in people with certain mental health conditions.

To manage these effects, experts recommend regular physical activity, even during bad weather. Outdoor time and movement can help boost energy and improve your mood. Being aware of how weather affects mental health can help you take positive steps to feel better throughout the year.

(Adapted from The Independent)