Problema 1 · Inglés PAU Aragón Ordinaria 2025

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THE MULTIPLE BENEFITS OF HIKING FOR TEENAGERS

Did you know that many teens today miss out on their social development because they spend long periods of time stuck at home? Some of them may not even consider participating in outdoor activities, but the case is that those activities offer a wide range of physical, mental, and social benefits. For example, in today's fast-paced digital world, where screens dominate much of a teenager's time, hiking provides a refreshing and necessary escape into nature, whether it's a short trail in a local park or a challenging hike in the mountains.

One of the most significant advantages of hiking is its positive impact on physical health. Hiking is a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, and enhances endurance. Unlike structured sports, hiking allows teenagers to exercise at their own pace, making it an accessible activity for all fitness levels. Additionally, spending time outdoors exposes teenagers to fresh air and natural sunlight, which promotes vitamin D production and supports bone health.

Beyond physical benefits, hiking plays a crucial role in mental health. Many teenagers face stress and anxiety due to academic pressure, social challenges, and the demands of growing up. Hiking offers a break from these pressures by providing a peaceful and natural setting where they can relax and stop feeling anxious. Studies show that spending time in nature reduces stress hormones, improves mood, and enhances concentration.

Socially, hiking is an excellent way for teenagers to bond with friends and family. Unlike digital interactions, hiking encourages face-to-face conversations and teamwork, as is the case when people help each other climb steep sections, or simply share stories throughout the journey. It also provides an opportunity to develop leadership and problem-solving skills, as teenagers often need to plan routes, read maps, and make decisions on the trail.

Hiking allows teenagers to explore the natural world firsthand. For example, nature trails are paths through the countryside which have been designed so that you can see interesting plants and animals along the way. Hiking also encourages sustainable habits, such as respecting wildlife and reducing waste. This connection to nature can inspire lifelong interests in outdoor activities and environmental conservation.

Overall, hiking is a rewarding and enriching activity for teenagers. It promotes physical health, reduces stress, strengthens social bonds, and nurtures a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Encouraging teenagers to hike regularly can lead to lifelong benefits, helping them develop a healthier, happier, and more balanced lifestyle.

1. (1.5 points). Add True or False, quoting the relevant information from the text to justify your answer.

Only "T" or "F" or the full words "True" or "False" will be accepted as valid answers. Their translation into Spanish or another language will never be accepted, but if the justification is correct, 0.25 points will be awarded for each sentence. No points will be given for answers without their corresponding justification or if the justification is incorrect. Likewise, answers in which the justification is not a direct quote from the text or only consist of line numbers will not be scored. The use of quotation marks in the justification is not obligatory. Ellipses in parentheses, (...), may be used to indicate that parts of the original text have been omitted in the justification, but make sure those parts do not contain essential information for the justification.

1.1.

Vitamin D is produced when teenagers benefit from fresh air and natural sunlight, which also contributes to strong and healthy bones.

1.2.

In terms of social interaction, hiking prevents teenagers from connecting with friends and family.

1.3.

Having to read maps while hiking is totally unrelated to the development of problem-solving talents.