Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-152

Glaciers are enormous, moving bodies of dense ice that are found in mountainous regions and the polar caps. To be considered a glacier, this mass of ice must be on land. These natural wonders are formed from the accumulation and compaction of snow over hundreds or even thousands of years. Essentially, they exist in places where more snow falls in the winter than melts away in the summer, allowing it to build up.

The process of glacier formation begins with simple snowflakes. As new layers of snow accumulate, they bury and compress the older layers. This immense weight squeezes the air out from between the snow crystals, transforming them into a denser, granular material called firn. Over time, and under its own immense pressure, the firn recrystallizes into solid glacial ice. The layers of snow build up (21) __________ many years, creating the massive ice sheets we see today.

Glaciers are not static; they are constantly moving. This movement happens very (22) __________, often just a few centimeters a day, driven by gravity. There are two main ways they move: basal sliding, where the glacier slides over a thin layer of meltwater at its base, and internal deformation, where the ice crystals themselves deform and shift. The upper layers of a glacier are brittle and can crack. However, the ice at the bottom is more plastic and can flow like a thick liquid. Both of these movements allow the glacier to advance down valleys.

As they move, glaciers act like giant bulldozers, carving out U-shaped valleys (23) __________ are a distinctive feature of glacial landscapes. They scrape away rock and soil, transporting this debris over long distances. The main (24) __________ of this carving process is the creation of new landforms like cirques and moraines. These moving rivers of ice play a huge role in shaping the Earth's surface, both in the past and present.

In conclusion, a glacier is much more than just frozen water. It is a powerful geological force, made of compacted snow and moving slowly but relentlessly under its own weight. Through their constant motion, they carve and reshape the very land they travel over, leaving behind a unique and dramatic landscape.

Travel in the modern world often prioritizes speed, with planes reducing vast distances to hours. [I] However, a quiet appreciation for slower journeys persists, particularly for long-distance train travel. [II] Unlike air travel's detached experience, trains offer a continuous connection to the landscape, transforming the journey into an integral part of the adventure, not just a means to an end. [III] This global phenomenon underscores a fundamental truth: sometimes, the journey itself holds as much value as the destination. [IV]

In Vietnam, this global sentiment finds powerful resonance in the legendary North-South Railway, affectionately known as the Reunification Express. Stretching over 1,700 kilometers from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, this iconic train journey is more than just transport; it’s a living historical narrative. It winds through the heart of the country, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness Vietnam’s breathtaking geographical diversity, from dramatic coastal stretches and serene, emerald-green rice paddies to bustling local towns. It truly encapsulates the nation's varied beauty as it unfolds from the window.

Indeed, the Reunification Express might be one of the slowest ways to traverse the country, often lasting over 30 hours. Yet, this unhurried pace transforms the trip into an immersive experience. Instead of rushing past, passengers truly absorb the passing scenery. You can watch local life unfold outside your window, observing farmers tending fields or catching glimpses of children playing. This extended exposure allows for a deeper appreciation of the subtle shifts in climate, architecture, and daily routines that define different regions of Vietnam, offering insights easily missed by faster travel.

For young people, choosing the train offers invaluable lessons. It teaches patience in a fast-paced world, encouraging engagement with surroundings rather than instant gratification. Beyond the stunning visuals, the train fosters a unique environment for connection. Sharing a compartment or dining car with fellow travelers – locals and tourists alike – often leads to unexpected conversations, shared stories, and genuine cultural exchange. It's a hands-on way to understand your own country from a ground-level perspective, impossible when soaring at 30,000 feet.

Ultimately, the question of whether the slowest way to travel is the best finds a resounding "yes" on the tracks of the Reunification Express. It’s a journey that challenges the modern obsession with speed, proving that true value often lies not in reaching the destination quickly, but in the richness of the path taken. This classic Vietnamese experience offers a profound connection to the land and its people, making it an unforgettable adventure that transcends mere transportation and becomes a cherished memory.