Top 6 Best 'Explanations of a Scenic Landmark' for 8th Grade

Question 1: What is the most important thing to consider when writing an explanatory essay about a scenic landmark?

Answer:

The most important factor in writing a good explanatory essay about a scenic landmark is having a solid understanding and knowledge of the landmark itself. It's best to visit the site in person to observe and experience it firsthand. Additionally, referring to materials such as books, articles, and online sources is crucial to understanding its history and significance. Preparation is key for writing a well-informed essay.

Question 2: Exercise 1, Page 35, Textbook.

Answer:

There is a wealth of information about Hoan Kiem Lake, with various ways to introduce it. When writing an explanatory essay, it's important to select key aspects, especially its history, which includes four major phases of development. Before Le Loi, it was simply called Luc Thuy Lake. After the legendary sword incident, it became Hoan Kiem Lake. In the early 19th century, Ngoc Son Temple was built, and by the late 19th century, the Turtle Tower was constructed. Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi, and it serves as a gathering place for the local people during festivals.

Refer to the following essay for a vibrant and evocative yet factual explanation about Hoan Kiem Lake, one of Hanoi's most scenic spots.

HOAN KIEM LAKE

As beautiful as a bouquet of flowers in the city center, Hoan Kiem Lake is surrounded by streets like Dinh Tien Hoang, Le Thai To, and Hang Khay, stretching over about 1800 meters. The water acts like a giant mirror, reflecting the ancient trees, graceful willow trees, old temples, and towering modern buildings. The water remains a deep green year-round, which is why the lake was once called Luc Thuy Lake. According to legend, during Le Loi's revolt in Lam Son, he found a magical sword. The sword accompanied him for 10 years in his struggle against the invading Ming forces. After recapturing Thang Long, King Le took a boat ride on the lake and saw a golden turtle rise to the surface. The turtle grabbed the sword and disappeared into the water, signaling that the nation had peace and no longer needed the sword. Thus, the lake was named Hoan Kiem, meaning 'Return the Sword.'

The turtle is a symbol of longevity and wisdom in Vietnamese folklore, and this rare species still resides in the lake. Visitors are fortunate to witness the turtle surface. The lake has two small islands: the larger one, Ngoc Island, is on the northern side and features a red-painted bridge called The Huc, leading to the island. The smaller island has an ancient tower, Turtle Tower, which stands on the southern side of the lake.

Hoan Kiem Lake is a popular destination throughout the year. In spring, the lake is adorned with traditional festivals and blossoming peach flowers. Summer brings refreshing winds, while autumn brings mist and dreamy willow trees that captivate photographers. In winter, the golden leaves and the cool Southeast Asian breeze create a unique atmosphere. The lake remains a timeless symbol of Vietnam's history and the nation's enduring peace.

(Source: Historical and Scenic Monuments of Hanoi and Surrounding Areas)

Question 3: Read the article on Phu Dong Temple and comment on the structure of the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Answer:

The introduction accurately introduces the location of the temple. The body describes the deity worshiped there, the temple's construction, the historical artifacts inside, and nearby landmarks. The conclusion mentions the annual festival. Remember that Phu Dong Temple was recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2010.

Question 4: How should an explanatory essay about a scenic landmark be structured?

Answer:

When writing about a scenic landmark, it's important to follow the chronological order of its history. Start by explaining the era in which the landmark originated and the subsequent developments. Then, provide details about the landmark’s geographical location and surrounding scenery, helping the reader visualize the area from various perspectives.

PART I - INTRODUCING A SCENIC LANDMARK

Question 1: Page 34
Read the article about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple and answer the questions below.

1. What does the article teach you about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple? What knowledge is required to write a description of such a landmark? 2. How can you gather knowledge about a scenic landmark? 3. How is the article structured? Do you think there are any structural gaps in this article? 4. What explanatory methods are used here?

1. The article provides the following information:

- The history of Hoan Kiem Lake (initially part of the Red River)
- The lake’s various names throughout history
- The history and architecture of Ngoc Son Temple
- Other nearby landmarks such as Dai Nghien, Turtle Tower, and Pen Tower.
To write about a scenic landmark, you need:

- Observation and firsthand experience
- Knowledge from books, history, local legends, and the cultural traditions of the area being described.
→ Combining these sources will make your essay lively, authentic, and insightful.

2. To gain knowledge about a scenic landmark, one should read books, journals, and related materials, collect information, watch documentaries, and, importantly, visit the place in person.

3. The article follows this structure:

- Introduction: Introduction to Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Main body: Introduction to Ngoc Son Temple.
Regarding structure, this article lacks an introduction and conclusion.

4. The primary explanatory methods used are description and explanation.

PART II - PRACTICE

Question 1: Page 35, Textbook Literature 8 - Volume 2
Rearrange the structure of the essay about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple logically.

You can rearrange the structure of the explanatory essay about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple as follows:

- Introduction: General introduction to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.

- Body:

1. Introduction to Hoan Kiem Lake.

2. Introduction to Ngoc Son Temple.

- Conclusion: General discussion about the Hoan Kiem area.

Question 2: Page 35, Textbook Literature 8 - Volume 2
If you want to introduce Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in the order of visiting from far to near, from outside to inside, how would you arrange the description?

You should arrange the description in the following order:

- Introduction to the streets and buildings around the lake (Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Khay, Le Thai To. Nearby structures include Tràng Tiền Plaza, Post Office, City Hall, Ba Kieu Temple, the martyr statue, the Puppet Theater, and the Thuy Ta restaurant).

- Introduction to the historical buildings: Dai Nghien, Pen Tower, Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple.

Question 3: Page 35, Textbook Literature 8 - Volume 2
Rewrite this essay in three parts. What key details would you highlight to emphasize the historical and cultural significance of the landmark and the scenic beauty?

Key details to highlight:

- The Turtle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
- The legend of the returned magical sword.
- The Thê Huc Bridge, Pen Tower.
- The importance of preserving the landscape and cleanliness of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Question 4: Page 35, Textbook Literature 8 - Volume 2
A foreign poet described Hoan Kiem Lake as 'a beautiful flower basket in the heart of Hanoi.' Where would you place this quote in your essay?

The quote describing Hoan Kiem Lake as 'a beautiful flower basket in the heart of Hanoi' can be used in several places:

- In the introduction, when giving a general overview of the lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
- In the body, at the start of the first paragraph when introducing Hoan Kiem Lake.
- At the end of the first paragraph, before transitioning to the second paragraph introducing Ngoc Son Temple.

I - ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE TO MASTER

1. To write an introduction to a scenic landmark, it is best to visit the location, observe, or research through books and ask knowledgeable individuals to gather reliable information about the site.

2. The introduction should follow a three-part structure. Including descriptions and personal commentary will make it more engaging, but the introduction must be based on accurate knowledge and appropriate methodology. The language should be precise and emotionally expressive.

II - GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING THE ARTICLE

1. The article introduces the history of Hoan Kiem Lake, which originally was a part of the Red River. The lake is several thousand years old and has had various names, including Hoan Kiem and Lake of the Returned Sword.

The article also provides insights into the history and architecture of Ngoc Son Temple, and surrounding structures like Dai Nghien, Pen Tower, and Turtle Tower.

2. To write about a scenic landmark, both direct observation and indirect knowledge from books, history, and folklore are necessary. Combining these two types of knowledge creates a vivid and well-rounded piece. In the article on Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, the author incorporates direct observations as well as historical facts, folklore, and classical Chinese references (explaining terms such as Tả Thanh Thiên and Thê Húc).

3. To gain knowledge about a landmark, visiting it in person is ideal. If it is a famous place, joining a group tour, listening to a guide, observing, taking notes, or purchasing books about the landmark will enrich one's indirect knowledge. It is also possible to learn through published works or by asking people who are familiar with the landmark. For example, when visiting the Temple of Literature, consulting with curators or guides can provide valuable insights.

4. The article about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple does not follow the usual three-part structure. The author introduces the lake first, then the temple, and concludes with a discussion about the surrounding area. The section about Ngoc Son Temple is somewhat disorganized, jumping between Turtle Tower, the temple itself, and other surrounding structures like Pen Tower, Dai Nghien, and the Thê Húc Bridge.

5. The primary methods used in the article are classification, analysis, and listing.

III - PRACTICE GUIDELINES

1. The structure of the explanatory essay on Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple can be outlined as follows:

- Introduction: An overview of the landmark, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.

- Body:

+ Paragraph 1: Introduction to Hoan Kiem Lake.

+ Paragraph 2: Introduction to Ngoc Son Temple.

- Conclusion: A general overview of the Hoan Kiem area.

2. To present the landmarks in the order of a typical visit from outer areas to inner details, the following sequence is suggested: Hoan Kiem Lake can be explored by walking around streets such as Dinh Tien Hoang, Bờ Hồ, Le Thai To, and Hang Khay. Key structures near the lake include Tràng Tiền Plaza, the Post Office, City Hall, Ba Kieu Temple, the Martyr's Monument, Thang Long Puppet Theater, and Thuy Ta Restaurant. Ancient architectural landmarks like Dai Nghien and Pen Tower are also important. Inside the lake area, you will find Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple.

Ngoc Son Temple is situated on Jade Island, with the Thê Húc Bridge serving as the entrance. In front of the temple is the Trấn Ba Đình (wave-breaker pavilion). The temple is divided into three sections: the first is the prayer hall, the second is dedicated to the God of Literature, Văn Xương, and the innermost section honors General Trần Hưng Đạo.

3. The three-part structure can follow the order outlined in point 1. The key challenge is selecting the right details. For those unable to visit the site directly, the textbook can be used as a reference. Regarding the legend of Hoan Kiem, writing based on the lessons in Vietnamese Literature 6 will ensure accuracy.

4. The quote from the foreign poet can be incorporated into the introduction to provide a general overview of Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Alternatively, it can be used at the beginning of the first paragraph when introducing Hoan Kiem Lake, or at the end of the first paragraph to transition into the second section on Ngoc Son Temple.

I. Explanatory Writing on a Scenic Landmark

Question 1: This article provides readers with:

+ The history of Hoan Kiem Lake's formation (originally a branch of the Red River)

+ The various names the lake has had over time.

+ The history and architecture of Ngoc Son Temple

+ Other scenic landmarks such as Dai Nghien, Turtle Tower, and Pen Tower.

Question 2: To write about a scenic landmark, one must:

+ Observe and experience the site firsthand.

+ Research through books, history, folklore, and the local culture of the landmark.

→ Combine these two sources of knowledge to create a vivid, authentic, and insightful piece.

Question 3: To acquire knowledge about a landmark:

- Visit the site directly, take a guided tour, observe, and make detailed notes.

- Read relevant literature about the landmark.

- Seek information from long-time residents living near the landmark.

Question 4: The structure of the article on Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple does not follow the typical three-part format:

+ Introduces the lake, then the temple, and ends by linking other landmarks.

+ The introduction of Ngoc Son Temple lacks a clear sequence: Turtle Tower → temple → other external landmarks.

Question 5: The explanatory methods used in this article are: analysis and listing.

II. Practice Exercises

Exercise 1 (page 35, Literature Textbook, Grade 8, Volume 2):

The structure of the Hoan Kiem Lake essay:

- Introduction: General introduction to the two landmarks, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.

- Body:

+ Introduce Hoan Kiem Lake

+ Introduce Ngoc Son Temple

- Conclusion: Introduction to surrounding scenic landmarks.

Exercise 2 (page 35, Literature Textbook, Grade 8, Volume 2):

- The order of introduction can be rearranged as follows:

+ General introduction to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

+ Introduce Hoan Kiem Lake:

+ The lake's size

+ The lake's water color

+ The lake's history

+ Surrounding scenery

- Introduce Ngoc Son Temple:

+ Location of Ngoc Son Temple

+ History of Ngoc Son Temple

+ Scenery of the temple

- Introduce Turtle Tower:

+ Location of Turtle Tower

+ History of Turtle Tower

+ Surrounding scenery of Turtle Tower

Exercise 3 (page 35, Literature Textbook, Grade 8, Volume 2):

When rewriting the essay structure, highlight details that emphasize the historical and cultural significance of the landmark:

- History of the lake's formation:

+ Originally a part of the Red River, the lake is several thousand years old.

+ Previously named Luc Thuy Lake.

+ In the 15th century, it was called Hoan Kiem, linked to the legend of the return of the magical sword.

+ Finally named Thuy Quan Lake.

- History of Ngoc Son Temple:

+ Originally the Fishing Pavilion, a place for the king to fish.

+ In the time of Lord Trinh Giang, the Khánh Thụy Palace was built on Jade Island for relaxation.

+ The temple consists of three sections.

- History of Turtle Tower:

+ Initially a Buddhist temple, later became a shrine for the God of Literature and General Tran Hung Dao.

+ Nguyen Sieu renovated and carved the phrase 'Tả Thanh Thiên' on the tower.

- Current scenario:

+ The lakeside is a place for leisurely walks, meetings, and annual festivals.

Exercise 4 (page 35, Literature Textbook, Grade 8, Volume 2):

- The foreign poem describing Hoan Kiem as a beautiful flower basket in the heart of Hanoi can be placed at the beginning of the paragraph introducing the lake.

- Alternatively, it can be placed at the end of the lake introduction, just before transitioning to the section on Ngoc Son Temple.

Part I: INTRODUCTION TO A SCENIC LANDMARK

Read the article about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple (pages 33-34, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2) and answer the following questions:

Question 1 (page 34, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

What does the article help you understand about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple?

Answer:

The article helps us understand the history, structure, and some details about the scenery of Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.

Question 2 (page 34, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

What knowledge is required to write an introduction about a scenic landmark like this?

Answer:

One must have knowledge of culture, history, geography, and more.

Question 3 (page 34, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

How can one gain knowledge about a scenic landmark?

Answer:

By reading books, researching, and asking locals for information.

Question 4 (page 34, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

How is the article structured, and do you think it is missing anything in terms of structure?

Answer:

- The article is structured in the following order:

+ Introduction of Hoan Kiem Lake.

+ Introduction of Ngoc Son Temple.

- In terms of structure, this article is missing an introductory paragraph.

Question 5 (page 34, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

What explanatory method is used here?

Answer:

The primary explanatory methods used here are description and explanation.

Part II: PRACTICE EXERCISES

Exercise 1 (page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

Rearrange the structure of the article introducing Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in a logical way.

Answer:

The structure for introducing Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple could be arranged as follows:

Introduction: General introduction to the scenic landmarks of Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.

Body: Paragraph 1: Introduction of Hoan Kiem Lake

Paragraph 2: Introduction of Ngoc Son Temple

Conclusion: A brief mention of the area around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Exercise 2 (page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

If you were to introduce Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in the order from distant to close, from the outside to the inside, how would you organize the sequence? Write it down.

Answer:

If the introduction is to follow the sequence of visiting Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple from distant to close, the order would be as follows:

- Introduce the streets and buildings surrounding the lake (e.g., Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Khay, Le Thai To). Mention buildings like Tràng Tiền Plaza, the Post Office, City People's Committee, Ba Kieu Temple, the Martyrs' Memorial, the Water Puppet Theater, and Thuy Ta Restaurant.

- Introduce historical structures like Dai Nghien, Pen Tower, Turtle Tower, and Ngoc Son Temple.

Exercise 3 (page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

If you were to rewrite the article using a three-part structure, what key details would you choose to emphasize the historical and cultural value of the landmark?

Answer:

If the article were rewritten using a three-part structure, the following details could be chosen:

- Historical details: From the old name (Luc Thuy) to the current name (based on the legend of Le Loi returning the magical sword).

- Cultural details: Legends from the reign of King Le Thanh Tong and Vinh Huu about the Fishing Pavilion, Khánh Thuỵ Palace, and Ngoc Son Temple (later known as Ngoc Son Temple). Other notable details could include the construction of Pen Tower and Dai Nghien.

Exercise 4 (page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2):

A foreign poet calls Hoan Kiem Lake “a beautiful flower basket in the heart of Hanoi.” Where could you use this line in your writing?

Answer:

The poet's line calling Hoan Kiem Lake “a beautiful flower basket in the heart of Hanoi” could be used in various places: in the introduction, to generally introduce Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, or at the start of paragraph 1 when introducing Hoan Kiem Lake. It could also be used to close paragraph 1 before transitioning to paragraph 2, which introduces Ngoc Son Temple.

A. KEY KNOWLEDGE

1. Introducing a Scenic Landmark.

Read the text "Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple" and answer the following questions:
What does the introduction help you understand about Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple?
What knowledge is required to write an introduction about a landmark like this?
How can one acquire knowledge about a landmark?
How is the article structured? Do you think anything is missing in the structure?
What explanatory methods are used here?
Answer:
The text helps us understand the history, structure, and the scenic aspects of Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
To write an introduction about such a landmark, one must have knowledge in culture, history, geography, and more.
Knowledge about a landmark can be gained by reading books, conducting research, and asking for information.
The article is structured in the following order: Introduction of Hoan Kiem Lake, Introduction of Ngoc Son Temple, and a general overview of the Hoan Kiem Lake area. In terms of structure, this article lacks an introductory paragraph.
The main explanatory methods used here are description and explanation.

B. EXERCISES AND SOLUTIONS

Question 1: Page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2

Rearrange the structure of the article introducing Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple logically.

Answer:
The outline for the article on Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple is as follows:
Introduction: General introduction to the subject of explanation (Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple)
Body:
Introduction of Hoan Kiem Lake (description of its shape, structure, significance, and function)
Introduction of Ngoc Son Temple (description of its shape, structure, significance and role)
General overview of the Hoan Kiem Lake area.
Conclusion: Personal thoughts on the landmarks.

Question 2: Page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
If you want to introduce Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in the order of a tour from far to near, from outside to inside, how should the introduction be arranged?
Answer:
If introducing Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple from a distance to a closer view, the order should be as follows:
Start with an introduction from the surrounding streets, then move to the lakeside, followed by a panoramic view of the lake, and finally, the Ngoc Son Temple.
Alternatively, you could start directly from the lakeside, mentioning places like Thuy Ta ice cream shop, followed by the panoramic view of the lake, and end with Ngoc Son Temple.

Question 3: Page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2
If you were to rewrite the article using a three-part structure, what key details would you choose to highlight the historical and cultural value of the landmark?

Answer:
The following details could be chosen to highlight the historical and cultural value of the landmarks:
The legend of Le Loi returning the sword.
The legend surrounding the creation of Ngoc Son Temple.
Descriptions of notable landmarks like the Pen Tower and Golden Turtle.
The significance and role of Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in daily life.
Preservation issues.

Question 4: Page 35, Grade 8 Literature Textbook, Volume 2

A foreign poet referred to Hoan Kiem Lake as "a beautiful flower basket in the heart of Hanoi." Where can this quote be used in your writing?
Answer:
This quote could be used in the following places in your writing:
In the introduction: when giving a general introduction to Hoan Kiem Lake.
In the body: when discussing the role and significance of Hoan Kiem Lake.