Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-171

A Tunnel Boring Machine, or TBM, is one of the most impressive pieces of construction machinery ever created. It is essentially a mobile factory that can (35) __________ underground, carving out tunnels with remarkable precision. These machines, which can be hundreds of meters long, are used for major infrastructure projects like subway systems, and road and railway tunnels. They make it possible to build tunnels safely and efficiently beneath cities and mountains.

At the very front of the TBM is its most iconic feature: (36) __________ cutter head. This is a massive, circular plate fitted with dozens of sharp cutting discs. As the TBM moves forward, the cutter head is constantly rotating, grinding away at soil and rock. The immense force and specialized design of these discs allow the machine to break down even the hardest geological formations.

As the TBM cuts through the earth, a large amount of loose rock and soil, known as 'muck', is created. This material falls onto a conveyor belt that runs through the length of the machine (37) __________ it can be transported back to the tunnel entrance. The system must (38) __________ this removal process continuously to prevent the machine from getting blocked and to clear the path ahead.

Simultaneously, at the rear of the TBM, a different but equally important process is happening. A robotic arm called a segment erector carefully picks up pre-made concrete segments and installs them to form a ring, creating the permanent tunnel wall. A site manager once explained that the machine (39) __________ this task with great accuracy. This dual-action design allows the TBM to continue (40) __________ forward while securing the tunnel behind it.

TBMs have truly revolutionized modern construction. If these incredible machines did not exist, building long tunnels (41) __________ significantly slower and more hazardous. While they make the impossible possible, operating a TBM is an extremely complex and demanding job that requires a huge team of skilled engineers and technicians. It is definitely not always a (42) __________.

Across the globe, a new type of urban environment is rapidly emerging: the megacity. These are not just large cities; they are immense urban areas with populations exceeding ten million people. They represent hubs of economic power, innovation, and cultural exchange, drawing in millions who seek opportunity and a more dynamic lifestyle. This global trend is reshaping not only our physical landscapes but also the very fabric of society.

Vietnam is at the forefront of this transformation in Southeast Asia. The skylines of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are changing at a breathtaking pace, largely driven by rapid urbanization. A key feature of this change is the development of large-scale, integrated residential projects. Developments like Vinhomes have created 'cities within cities,' offering residents everything from shopping malls and schools to parks and hospitals in one self-contained area. These projects reflect a vision of a modern, convenient urban future.

For teenagers, the allure of these super-cities is powerful. They promise access to superior educational institutions, a wider variety of career paths, and a vibrant social life filled with entertainment and cultural events that smaller towns cannot offer. The chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds and engage with cutting-edge technology and ideas is a significant magnet for young, ambitious individuals looking to shape their futures.

However, this urban dream comes with significant challenges. The sheer density of people and vehicles leads to chronic traffic congestion, making daily commutes a stressful ordeal. Air and noise pollution often reach unhealthy levels, impacting residents' well-being. Furthermore, the cost of living is substantially higher, putting pressure on families. This intense environment also fosters a culture of fierce competition for everything from a place in a good school to a promising job.

Ultimately, the environment in which young people grow up profoundly shapes their personalities and perspectives. Do they thrive in the fast-paced, competitive atmosphere of a megacity, or do they feel overwhelmed by its pressures? The constant exposure to both immense opportunity and significant stress creates a unique generation of city dwellers, who are often more independent but also more accustomed to a high-pressure lifestyle compared to their rural counterparts.

As Vietnam continues on its path of development, the debate over these super-cities continues. Are they a sustainable model for the future, or will their negative aspects eventually outweigh the benefits? Finding a balance between economic progress and maintaining a high quality of life for citizens, especially the younger generation, remains the critical question for the nation's planners.