Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-144

The Baobab, often called Africa’s “Tree of Life,” is one of the continent's (35) __________ iconic and unusual trees. Found in the hot, dry savannas, its unique silhouette stands out against the horizon. For centuries, it has been a vital resource for both humans and animals, earning its special nickname because of the essential support it offers in a challenging environment. Its appearance is so distinct that ancient legends often describe it as a tree planted upside-down.

The most noticeable feature of the Baobab is its enormous, swollen trunk. Unlike the trunks of many other trees, the Baobab's is made of a soft, fibrous wood that (36) __________ store up to 120,000 liters of water. This incredible water storage adaptation is (37) __________ for surviving the long periods of drought common to its habitat. This stored water is a lifeline, not just for the tree, but for elephants that sometimes chew the bark to get moisture.

The ability to retain so much water means the tree can flourish for months even when there is no rain. (38) __________ makes the Baobab a powerful symbol of life and endurance in the African landscape. Since rainfall can be unpredictable, this survival mechanism is the primary reason the tree can live for so long. During the dry season, it sheds its leaves to reduce water loss, further conserving its precious resources.

The tree's (39) __________ is remarkable, with some specimens living for more than 2,000 years, making them among the oldest living things on the continent. (40) __________ do these ancient trees grow to a great size, but as they age, their center often becomes naturally hollow. This creates a cavern-like space inside the massive trunk. These hollows are not a sign of sickness but a natural part of the Baobab’s life cycle.

These hollow spaces often (41) __________ shelter for a wide variety of animals, from insects and birds to larger mammals. Humans have also used these hollows for centuries as homes, storage spaces, and even community meeting points. (42) __________, the Baobab is far more than just a strange-looking plant; it is a central pillar of its ecosystem, supporting life in ways that justify its legendary status as the 'Tree of Life'.

It's a common question many people, especially teenagers, ask: “Why should I go to the dentist if my teeth don't hurt?” In Vietnam, as in many places, there's a traditional mindset that you only seek medical or dental help when you feel pain. This reactive approach, however, often leads to more complicated and expensive problems down the road. The idea of visiting a dentist for a 'check-up' when everything seems fine can feel strange, but it is the foundation of modern dental care.

This approach is called preventive dentistry, and its goal is to stop problems before they start. During a regular check-up, a dentist does much more than just look for obvious pain points. They use special tools to find early signs of tooth decay, gum inflammation (gingivitis), and other silent issues. Think of it like maintaining a motorbike: you change the oil and check the brakes regularly to prevent a breakdown, not wait until you're stranded on the side of the road. Regular professional cleanings are also essential because they remove hardened plaque that your toothbrush can't, preventing cavities and keeping your gums healthy.

The consequences of skipping these check-ups can be significant. A tiny, painless spot of decay can grow deeper into the tooth over several months. If left untreated, this small problem will require a much larger filling. If it continues to be ignored, the decay can reach the nerve of the tooth, causing severe pain and requiring a complex procedure called a root canal, or even the removal of the tooth entirely. For a teenager, this is especially critical because these are your permanent teeth, which are meant to last a lifetime.

Fortunately, attitudes towards dental care are beginning to change in Vietnam. An increasing number of people are recognizing the long-term benefits of preventive care. Modern dental chains, for example, are actively promoting the concept of biannual check-ups and cleanings, making professional care more accessible and encouraging a proactive mindset. They educate patients that investing a small amount of time and money now can save them from significant pain—and save their parents from much larger expenses—in the future.

Ultimately, your dentist should be seen as a partner in your long-term health, not just an emergency service for when you're in agony. Making the mature decision to attend regular check-ups is one of the smartest investments you can make for your future self. It’s a simple habit that ensures your smile stays healthy and strong for decades to come.