Đề tham khảo thi tốt nghiệp THPT - Đề số 5

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

The Changing Nature of Careers in the 21st Century

In the 21st century, the concept of a "career" has undergone significant transformation. Traditional career paths, where individuals spent their entire professional life in one organisation, are becoming less common. Instead, contemporary career paths are characterised by greater flexibility, increased job mobility, and a continuous demand for skill development.

Technological advancement is a primary driver of this change. Automation, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies have reshaped industries, making some jobs obsolete while creating new ones. As a result, workers must acquire new skills to stay relevant in an evolving job market. For instance, careers in data science and cybersecurity have emerged in response to the growing reliance on digital infrastructure.

The rise of the gig economy is another significant factor. Many individuals now opt for freelance or independent contract work instead of traditional full-time employment. While this trend offers greater autonomy and flexibility, it also presents challenges, including income instability and the absence of standard employment benefits.

Additionally, the emphasis on soft skills has grown considerably. Employers increasingly prioritise attributes such as communication, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. These competencies, essential in diverse and dynamic workplaces, complement technical expertise and facilitate collaboration and innovation.

Finally, societal attitudes toward work-life balance have shifted. Employees now place a higher value on flexible working arrangements, including remote work options, to prioritise personal well-being alongside career advancement. Organisations that accommodate these preferences are often better positioned to attract and retain skilled talent.

In conclusion, navigating a career in the modern era necessitates adaptability, lifelong learning, and a balanced focus on both technical and interpersonal skills. While these changes present challenges, they also offer unprecedented opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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

[I] Urbanization refers to the increasing population shift from rural to urban areas, resulting in the growth of cities and metropolitan regions (Hall, 2014). [II] This phenomenon is driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, improved living standards, and social amenities available in urban centers. [III] As a result, urbanization significantly impacts both individuals and communities, leading to a range of benefits and challenges (Davis, 2016). [IV]

One of the primary advantages of urbanization is the economic growth it fosters. Cities often provide a plethora of job opportunities, attracting individuals seeking better employment and higher incomes. In urban areas, businesses flourish due to increased demand for goods and services, leading to enhanced economic productivity. Moreover, urbanization encourages innovation and technological advancements, as a dense concentration of people often fosters creativity and collaboration (Florida, 2017).

However, urbanization also presents significant challenges. Rapid population growth in cities can lead to overcrowding, straining public services such as transportation, healthcare, and education. Many urban areas struggle to provide adequate housing, resulting in the proliferation of informal settlements and slums. According to the United Nations (2018), nearly one billion people live in slums, lacking access to basic services. They also face adverse living conditions. This situation exacerbates social inequality and can lead to increased crime rates and health issues.

To address the challenges of urbanization, sustainable urban planning is essential. Governments and urban planners must prioritize creating inclusive, well-connected cities that provide access to essential services for all residents. Strategies such as developing affordable housing, enhancing public transport systems, and promoting green spaces can help improve the quality of life in urban areas while mitigating the negative impacts of urbanization (World Bank, 2019).

(Adapted from Urbanization and Its Impact by Hall, Davis, and others)

Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct arrangement of the sentences to make a meaningful paragraph/letter in each of the following questions.