Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-147

Bricks are one of the oldest and most essential building materials known to humanity, used in everything from simple homes to large public buildings. The primary ingredient for making bricks is clay, a natural material which is found all over the world. The process of turning wet, soft clay into a hard, rectangular block is a fascinating example of manufacturing that has been refined over thousands of years but still follows the same basic principles.

The first step is preparation. The raw clay is cleaned of rocks and other impurities. Then, a specific amount of sand and water is added to (21) __________ batch. This mixture is thoroughly mixed until it becomes a consistent, thick paste. The wet clay is then pressed (22) __________ rectangular molds, which give the bricks their uniform shape and size. This stage is crucial for ensuring that all the bricks are identical.

After molding, the wet 'green' bricks must be dried. This is a delicate phase that can take several days. The bricks are carefully stacked in a ventilated area, protected from direct sun and rain, allowing them to lose moisture slowly and evenly. However, if they dry too quickly, they can crack and become useless. This slow process ensures the final (23) __________ of the bricks before the next critical stage.

Once the bricks are dry, they are ready for firing. After drying, the bricks (24) __________ into a special, large oven called a kiln. The temperature inside the kiln is extremely high, often reaching over 1,000°C. The bricks are baked for several hours at this intense heat. This process, known as firing, is what gives bricks their strength and distinctive reddish-brown color.

The final transformation occurs inside the kiln. The intense heat causes a chemical reaction that turns the soft, dry clay into hard, durable bricks, ready to play a vital role in construction. After a cooling period, the bricks are inspected, sorted, and then sent to construction sites. From a simple pile of clay, a strong and reliable building material has been created.

Imagine your city: clean air, quiet streets, buildings breathing alongside you. This isn't just a fantasy; it's the vision behind eco-cities, urban areas designed to exist in harmony with nature. Globally, architects and urban planners are creating sustainable environments that support populations while protecting our planet. For young people, understanding these concepts is key to envisioning the places they will live, work, and thrive. The city you currently inhabit is constantly evolving, and picturing its green future can inspire innovative ideas for balanced urban living.

At the heart of an eco-city lies a commitment to sustainability across all sectors. Public transport systems run on electricity or hydrogen, making cars largely obsolete. Buildings generate their own power via solar panels or wind turbines, integrating rooftop gardens for insulation and air purification. Waste management becomes a closed loop, with extensive recycling and organic waste transformed into compost or bio-energy. Water is conserved through smart systems and reused efficiently. These integrated systems minimize environmental impact, fostering healthier living for residents. [I]

[II] The government has approved ambitious plans for 'smart cities' and eco-districts, recognizing the urgent need for greener urban solutions. [III] A prime example is the Ecopark urban area near Hanoi. This large-scale development showcases many eco-city principles, boasting vast green spaces, lakes, and a focus on community living while integrating sustainable practices. It offers a glimpse into how Vietnamese urban landscapes can evolve into vibrant, environmentally conscious communities.

[IV] So, what might your everyday life be like in an eco-city in Vietnam? Picture waking up to the gentle hum of nature, not traffic, with your school or community center a short walk or electric bike ride through tree-lined paths. Your apartment might feature vertical farms, providing fresh produce, and shared green spaces for relaxation. Classrooms could be naturally lit and cooled, surrounded by gardens. Weekends might involve community farming projects or exploring urban parks, enjoying truly fresh air in a bustling, yet balanced, metropolis.

These eco-cities are not distant dreams but tangible goals, and young people like you will be at the forefront of their realization. Understanding sustainability principles and actively participating in urban development discussions can shape the world you inherit. The future of Vietnam's cities could be one where progress and nature coexist seamlessly, where innovation serves the planet, and every resident enjoys a higher quality of life. By envisioning these possibilities today, we pave the way for greener, healthier, and more harmonious urban landscapes tomorrow.