Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường Phổ thông Năng khiếu môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề PTNK-51

Have you ever wondered how your favorite chocolate bar is made? The journey from a bitter bean to a sweet treat is a fascinating process. It all begins on cacao farms in tropical regions. First, ripe cacao pods are carefully harvested from the trees. This is a crucial step because the quality of the final product depends heavily on the quality of the beans selected at this stage.

After harvesting, the cacao beans are removed from the pods and fermented for several days. This process is essential; a farmer once explained that this fermentation stage reduced the bitterness and developed the initial chocolate flavors. Following fermentation, the beans are spread out to dry under the sun. This step reduces moisture and prepares them for the next stage of their journey to the factory.

Once the beans arrive at the factory, they are roasted. Roasting is where the rich, familiar chocolate aroma really (21) __________. The beans are then cracked open, and the inner part, called the 'nib,' is separated from the shell. These nibs are ground into a thick, dark liquid called chocolate liquor. This liquor contains both cocoa solids and cocoa butter, the two basic ingredients of chocolate.

The chocolate liquor is then ready for a process called 'conching'. During conching, the liquor is continuously mixed and aerated for hours or even days. This refines the texture, making it smooth. It is at this point that other ingredients like sugar and milk powder are added to create the desired mixture. If a chocolatier skipped this part, the final product (22) __________ the same silky-smooth feel.

Finally, the chocolate must be tempered. Tempering involves carefully heating and cooling the chocolate to very specific temperatures. This is not (23) __________; it requires great precision. (24) __________ achieve the perfect glossy finish and a satisfying 'snap' when broken, tempering must be done correctly. The tempered chocolate is then poured into molds to create the final bars or shapes we all know and love.

For many young people today, headphones are an essential accessory. Whether you're commuting to school, studying, or simply unwinding, the world of music, podcasts, and games often comes directly to your ears. They offer a personal soundtrack to your life, a way to escape or focus. But while these devices bring immense convenience and entertainment, a silent threat lurks in the volume dial. The choices you make now about how loud you listen could have a profound and irreversible impact on your hearing for the rest of your life. [I]

This isn't just a hypothetical concern; it's a global health warning. The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm, estimating that over a billion young people worldwide are at risk of permanent hearing loss, primarily due to unsafe listening practices with personal audio devices. Our ears contain delicate hair cells that convert sound vibrations into electrical signals for our brain. Excessive volume can damage or destroy these cells, and unlike other parts of your body, they don't regenerate. [II]

Here in Vietnam, this risk is particularly visible. Walk down any bustling street in Hanoi or ride a bus through the vibrant chaos of Ho Chi Minh City, and you’ll see countless teenagers with headphones. Often, the reason for cranking up the volume isn't just for a better beat; it's to drown out the constant din of motorbikes, street vendors, and urban noise. This habit, while understandable, significantly amplifies the danger to your hearing. [III]

The consequences of consistently listening at high volumes aren't immediate, but they are cumulative and permanent. You might not notice it now, but years of unsafe listening can lead to tinnitus – a constant ringing in your ears – or significant hearing impairment. [IV] Experts recommend the '60/60 rule': listen at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time, taking breaks. Noise-cancelling headphones can also help by reducing the need to turn up the volume.

Your hearing is a precious sense that connects you to the world around you. It allows you to enjoy your favorite music, understand conversations, and experience the richness of everyday sounds. While the allure of loud music can be strong, remember that the power to protect your hearing lies directly in your hands. A few conscious choices today – turning down the volume, taking regular breaks, and being mindful of your environment – can ensure you continue to enjoy a lifetime of sound, without regret. Make the choice to listen safely.