Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-166

At the vast, distant edge of our solar system lies a mysterious region known as the Oort Cloud. It is not a planet or an asteroid, but a (35) __________ that scientists use to explain the origin of certain comets. This concept, named after astronomer Jan Oort, suggests that our solar system is surrounded by an enormous, spherical shell of icy objects, far beyond the orbits of even the most distant planets and dwarf planets.

Scientists theorize that the Oort Cloud is a remnant from the formation of the solar system. The idea was first (36) __________ in 1950 to explain why new comets with very long orbits continue to appear. The cloud itself is believed to be a massive sphere of trillions of individual icy bodies. If this theory is correct, it represents the most distant and largest-scale structure of our solar system.

The sheer distance to the Oort Cloud is difficult to comprehend; it is much farther than the asteroid belt or Pluto. Due to gravitational disturbances, sometimes one of these icy objects is knocked from its position, (37) __________ its long journey toward the Sun. (38) __________, we might see one of these spectacular long-period comets from Earth, providing a rare glimpse into the materials from our solar system's beginnings.

Because it is so distant and the objects within it are so small and dark, we cannot see the Oort Cloud directly. (39) __________, its existence is based on indirect evidence from studying comet orbits. An astronomer recently (40) __________ the cloud was so faint that it would be like trying to spot a tiny piece of coal in Tokyo from San Francisco. If a probe (41) __________ that far, it would take thousands of years to arrive with current technology.

Studying the theory of the Oort Cloud is essential for understanding the complete picture of our solar system. It holds clues about the early environment in which the Earth and other planets were formed. The continued study of comets originating from this distant region is (42) __________ major key to unlocking the secrets of our cosmic neighborhood.

Can a short, two-week trip truly change who you are? Many people view vacations as simple breaks from work or school, but psychologists and sociologists argue they can be much more. This idea has become particularly relevant in places like Vietnam, where the recent boom in 'revenge travel' showed a deep psychological need to explore and de-stress after a long period of restrictions. The truth is, travel can be a powerful tool for personal growth, offering profound effects on our personality and worldview, especially during our teenage years.

One of the most significant impacts of travel is on our cognitive abilities. When we visit a new country, our brains are challenged by new environments, foods, and social norms. To truly immerse ourselves in new cultures, sounds, and languages, our minds must work harder. This process enhances our cognitive flexibility—the ability to switch between different concepts and think more creatively. This mental workout can lead to improved problem-solving skills and a more innovative mindset, benefits that last long after we have returned home.

Beyond the brain, travel fosters deep emotional and personal growth. Stepping out of our comfort zone is often intimidating, but it's also where real development happens. Navigating an unfamiliar city or overcoming a language barrier builds confidence. When we face unexpected challenges, like a missed train or a confusing map, we learn to adapt. As we navigate them, they build our resilience and teach us that we are more capable than we thought. This experience also gives us a valuable new perspective, often making our problems back home seem smaller and more manageable.

Furthermore, travel is a powerful educator in social and cultural understanding. It provides a unique opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds, which helps to develop empathy. By seeing firsthand how others live, we can challenge the stereotypes and pre-conceived notions we may have. This direct experience fosters open-mindedness and encourages us to become more tolerant and accepting. In an increasingly connected world, these skills are essential for becoming a true 'global citizen'.

Ultimately, the transformative power of travel doesn't depend on the duration of the trip but on the traveler's mindset. It’s not just about seeing the sights; it's about engaging with the experience. A two-week vacation, if embraced with curiosity and an open mind, can absolutely be a catalyst for change. For a teenager building their identity, such a journey can spark a lifetime of confidence, creativity, and a broader understanding of the world and their place in it.