Đề thi thử tốt nghiệp THPT môn Tiếng Anh Sở GD&ĐT Sơn La năm 2026

What enables a seed to press through a fissure in stone, an eagle to maintain its course in turbulent skies, or a horse to run unrestrained? The answer is confidence-often the decisive catalyst of success. Without it, even highly capable people (1) ____.

A familiar illustration is Richard Nixon. In 1972, Nixon was seeking re-election as U.S. President, campaigning energetically nationwide. Many assumed he would secure a comfortable victory, given the accomplishments of his first term. Yet Nixon was burdened by insecurity. Haunted by the prospect of defeat, he made a grave misjudgment: he ordered his team to break into the Watergate Hotel to spy on his opponent. Once exposed, (2) ____. The scandal escalated rapidly and culminated in his resignation, despite the fact that he had already won the election. (3) ____.

By contrast, Madame Curie exemplified the power that confidence can generate. In her pursuit of radium, she worked in a poorly equipped laboratory and endured harsh conditions. Many ridiculed her, yet she remained steadfast in her belief in her own ability. She famously insisted, "We must have perseverance, especially confidence!" (4) ____. As a result of her pioneering accomplishments, she received two Nobel Prizes and became an enduring inspiration to generations that followed.

Confidence equips us to confront adversity and pursue meaningful achievement. Ultimately, it is only those (5) ____. Let us cultivate confidence and unlock the fullest measure of our potential.

In September of last year, I joined a tour group and visited several Kenyan national parks on a tour that lasted about two weeks. It was an absolutely exhilarating experience. The awe-inspiring wildlife, pristine natural settings, and warm interactions with the local people seemed to affect everyone, even the most jaded of tourists. [I]

We saw an impressive array of wildlife at the Maasai Mara National Reserve-lions, zebras, wildebeest, gazelles, giraffes, elephants, and many more. [II] Most of us were initially rather apprehensive to be in such close proximity to the animals, but slowly grew to appreciate the intimate experience. A woman screamed when a large lion came up to our minibus and started to lick the window. Our driver just laughed and said we had nothing to worry about-the lion was just offering his car-wash services. This calmed the woman down and she giggled along with the rest of us at his jokes.

At Amboseli National Park, we had our first encounter with the Maasai people. [III] This famous warrior tribe still lives a semi-nomadic lifestyle, meaning they move around from time to time in search of food, water, and grazing land for their cattle. We were invited to one of their villages to learn more about their traditional culture and practices, and to browse and buy handmade jewelry made from small colorful glass beads. The villagers were exceptionally friendly and gregarious, and we were made to feel very welcome.

On our last day in Amboseli, our tour guide had a special surprise-a group of Maasai were to perform traditional dances and songs for us. They sang without the accompaniment of any musical instruments and created wonderfully intricate music just by harmonizing their voices. The Maasai dancers were very vigorous, with the men leaping high in the air. These dances are considered a ritual among the men to display their strength: the higher the jump, the stronger the warrior. Some people in our group joined in, dancing and leaping with the Maasai, but of course none of us could jump as high as them! The memory of the wonderful performance stayed with us long after the trip. [IV]

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global demand for meat has increased over 500 percent in the past 50 years. Two things explain this: the Earth's population is rising rapidly, and people with higher incomes tend to consume more meat.

If meat production rises to match demand, the consequences could be catastrophic for the planet. Thirty percent of Earth's entire land surface - a massive 70 percent of all land available for agricultural use - is used for raising livestock.

Fortunately, food scientists have been anticipating this need for change. They are working on some interesting alternatives to current methods of meat production. A group of Dutch scientists are engineering meats that can be grown in laboratories. This involves using cells taken from cows to grow "muscle" that can be mixed with other things to make beef.

They say that this process could reduce the amount of energy and land needed to raise cattle by about 40 percent. Twenty other scientists from the United States and China are working to create "meaty" flavors from mushrooms, which could be used to flavor foods. They feel people can detect chemical flavors, and that natural flavors are better for the body.

For now, lab-grown meat is not a threat to traditional farming. Although scientists say that their beef could be ready for testing (and eating) soon, large-scale manufacturing won't be possible for another ten years. It's far too exorbitant to develop in large quantities - the Dutch team will spend over $200,000 making enough meat for one burger - and not everyone will be keen on the idea of eating lab-grown meat. While the general public isn't quite ready to accept "fake" meat, the day will come when we may not have a choice.

Explore the City the Smart Way

Looking for a more sustainable way to explore the city? Join EcoCity Tours and experience urban travel like never before. Some companies focus mainly on profit; (29) ____ are committed to protecting the environment. Our electric buses and bicycles are designed for maximum comfort and sustainability.

Unlike traditional tours centered solely on sightseeing, our program offers a truly (30) ____ experience, combining culture, history, and sustainability. Each tour is carefully planned to ensure a smooth journey and meaningful interaction with local communities.

You will explore famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods rarely included (31) ____ standard travel packages. Our guides, trained in environmental studies, will provide fascinating insights into (32) ____ across the city.

What We Offer: ✓ Access to eco-friendly transportation and equipment. ✓ A (33) ____ of interactive workshops and cultural activities. ✓ Delicious organic meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. ✓ Spaces are limited, (34) ____ sign up today and take part in shaping a cleaner future! ✓ Special discounts for students and group bookings.

Contact us at +0 (987) 654 321 or visit our office downtown for more information.

Hanoi Taxis to Go Electric by 2030

Hanoi has announced a plan to replace all gasoline and diesel taxis with green-energy vehicles by 2030. The city aims to reduce air pollution and improve environmental (35) ____. According to the plan, specific targets are set for each year before reaching full conversion in 2030.

Authorities will carry (36) ____ the transition in phases and provide financial support for taxi operators. Businesses (37) ____ electric taxis will receive incentives such as registration fee exemptions. The policy, which was approved by the People's Council, also includes (38) ____ to restrict high-emission vehicles in certain areas.

Hanoi currently has more than 14,300 taxis, many of (39) ____ are already electric. Only a small (40) ____ of gasoline-powered taxis remain and will be replaced in the coming years.