Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-84

An earthquake is a natural event caused by the movement of the Earth's outermost layer. The Earth's surface is not one solid piece; instead, it (35) __________ of several large sections called tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-molten layer beneath them, known as the mantle. The study of these geological forces helps us understand why some regions are more prone to seismic activity than others.

These plates are constantly moving, grinding against each other (36) __________ boundaries known as fault lines. This movement is usually very slow, only a few centimeters per year, which is why we do not feel it in our daily lives. The interaction between plates at these fault lines is the primary source of seismic energy.

Most of the time, this movement is slow and unnoticeable. (37) __________, sometimes the plates get stuck due to friction. While the plates are locked together, the rest of the plates continue to move, which causes enormous pressure to (38) __________ up over many years. This stored energy is similar to the energy you store when you stretch a rubber band.

When the pressure becomes too great, the rocks suddenly break and shift, releasing energy in the form of (39) __________ vibrations called seismic waves. These are the waves (40) __________ travel through the Earth and cause the ground to shake. The point deep within the Earth where the earthquake begins is called the hypocenter.

The shaking is strongest at the earthquake's origin and becomes weaker as the waves travel outwards. The point on the surface directly above where the earthquake starts is called the epicenter, and this is where the (41) __________ damage usually occurs. The shaking can have a devastating (42) __________ on buildings and infrastructure, making earthquake preparedness essential for communities in active zones.

The bell rings, and the teacher assigns another set of exercises. For many students in Vietnam, the pressure from a heavy homework load is a daily reality. Juggling math, literature, physics, and English can feel overwhelming, and the pile of books on the desk can seem impossible to conquer. This immense pressure often leads students to look for a quick solution.

Copying homework from a classmate can feel like a smart, easy fix. It saves time, reduces late-night stress, and ensures a completed assignment to show the teacher. Some students might even see it as a form of collaboration, a way to help each other out. The immediate relief of having a finished task makes it a very tempting option, especially when students copy from their friends to avoid getting a bad grade. However, this shortcut has hidden costs that affect a student's long-term academic growth.

The primary purpose of homework is not just to be completed, but to be a tool for practice and self-discovery. When you struggle with a problem, your brain is actively working to build new connections and deepen its understanding. This process of trying, failing, and trying again is where real learning happens. Copying someone else's answers completely bypasses this essential step. It prevents you from identifying your own weaknesses and asking for help where you truly need it. Therefore, embracing the challenge and even making mistakes is a crucial part of mastering a new subject.

The negative effects of this habit extend far beyond a single assignment. Relying on others' work builds poor study habits and a false sense of confidence. When it's time for a major exam, the copied knowledge isn't actually there, which can lead to significant anxiety and poor performance. Furthermore, in many educational systems, this action is considered a form of academic dishonesty or plagiarism. While it might seem minor in grade 9, developing this habit can lead to serious consequences in university and future careers.

So, is copying homework ever a good idea? The evidence suggests it is not. Instead of looking for a shortcut, students can develop better strategies. Managing time effectively, forming real study groups to discuss problems (not just share answers), and not being afraid to ask the teacher for clarification are far more beneficial. True success in education comes not from perfect scores on homework, but from the genuine understanding gained through personal effort and perseverance.