Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-83

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) __________.

Around the world, people share a powerful connection to their local food. This is more than just about flavor; it's a deep-seated pride that says, 'Our version is the best.' This feeling is universal, but it is especially vibrant in countries with a rich and diverse culinary landscape like Vietnam. From the mountains in the north to the deltas in the south, every region boasts dishes that locals will passionately defend as the most delicious.

A perfect example of this friendly rivalry is the great debate over Phở. In Hanoi, a bowl of Phở is typically defined by its clear, simple broth, which allows the pure taste of the beef and rice noodles to shine. It is an expression of minimalism and tradition. Travel south to Ho Chi Minh City, however, and you'll find a different philosophy. Saigon-style Phở often features a slightly sweeter broth, and it is served with a plate full of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sauces like Hoisin and Sriracha for customization. Neither is 'correct'—they are simply distinct regional identities expressed in a bowl.

So, what truly elevates a local dish from 'good' to 'the best' in people's minds? The answer often lies beyond the ingredients. It is found in the warm memories of sharing that meal with family during a holiday. It is connected to the unique local environment—the specific minerals in the water or the climate that grows a particular herb, giving a dish a flavor that is impossible to replicate elsewhere. It is also about the unique techniques passed down through generations, and the special way local vendors prepare them.

Furthermore, the stories we tell about our food are a powerful ingredient. A dish might have a name linked to a historical event or a local legend about how it was created for a king. These narratives transform a simple meal into a cultural artifact. They make the food feel like an integral part of a town's identity, not just something to eat. This connection between food and story is why a bowl of Cao Lầu in Hoi An tastes of more than just noodles and pork; it tastes of history and place.

Ultimately, the 'best' food is not something that can be measured objectively. It is a deeply personal and cultural declaration. It’s a taste of home, a story of your roots, and a shared experience that connects you to your community. So, the next time you enjoy your hometown's specialty, you're not just eating food; you're tasting a piece of your identity.