ĐỀ THI THỬ ĐÁNH GIÁ NĂNG LỰC CHUYÊN BIỆT TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC SƯ PHẠM THÀNH PHỐ HỒ CHÍ MINH MÔN TIẾNG ANH I. Reading Passage 1 The Hidden Cost of Light Pollution In recent decades, the excessive use of artificial lighting in cities has become a growing concern among scientists, environmentalists, and public health experts. Unlike air or water pollution, light pollution is often invisible to our senses in the form of immediate discomfort, yet it profoundly impacts ecosystems and human well-being. Artificial light at night disrupts natural circadian rhythms, affects wildlife migration patterns, and even interferes with astronomical observations, making it harder for scientists to study the night sky. Chronic exposure to bright light during nighttime has also been linked to increased risks of sleep disorders, metabolic diseases, and certain types of cancer. Light pollution is particularly challenging to control because it is tied to cultural habits and economic growth. Many people believe that brightly lit streets and buildings enhance safety and symbolize prosperity. However, research suggests that beyond a certain level, more lighting does not significantly improve security and may even create glare that reduces visibility for drivers. In rural areas near urban centers, the glow of city lights can travel dozens of kilometers, affecting both local communities and distant natural habitats. Apart from health and ecological effects, light pollution also has cultural implications. Humanity has had a long-standing connection with the night sky, which has inspired myths, navigation techniques, and scientific discoveries. The loss of visible stars in urban skies deprives future generations of this shared heritage. Some countries, such as New Zealand and Chile, have introduced "dark-sky reserves" to protect regions from unnecessary artificial light, benefiting both tourism and biodiversity. Despite these findings, urban planners in many cities still treat light pollution as a minor