Đề thi HSG Tiếng Anh 12 Sở GD&ĐT Bắc Ninh 2025 - 2026

Tiếng AnhLớp 12HChia sẻ bởi HOÀNG PHƯƠNG LINH SPA D2025 1 lượt sử dụng đề

SỞ GIÁO DỤC VÀ ĐÀO TẠO BẮC NINH

TRƯỜNG THPT CHUYÊN BẮC NINH

Đề chính thức

KỲ THI CHỌN HỌC SINH GIỎI CẤP TỈNH NĂM HỌC 2025 - 2026

MÔN THI: TIẾNG ANH – LỚP 12 THPT

Thời gian làm bài: 90 phút (không kể thời gian phát đề)

Họ và tên thí sinh: ................................................................

Số báo danh: ............................................................

Mã đề thi: 101

Thí sinh làm bài trực tiếp vào Phiếu trả lời trắc nghiệm. Đề thi gồm 80 câu trắc nghiệm.

PART 1. LISTENING (Questions 1 – 16)

Section 1. Questions 1 – 10

Listen to a podcast interview with Dr. Aris Thorne, an educational sociologist, discussing the integration of Artificial Intelligence in higher education, and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the following questions.

Question 1. What does Dr. Thorne identify as the primary catalyst behind the rapid adoption of AI in universities?

A. Government policy mandates across OECD nations.

B. Student demand for personalized and asynchronous learning.

C. Aggressive corporate sponsorship from Silicon Valley.

D. The urgent need to reduce administrative overheads.

Question 2. According to Dr. Thorne, traditional assessment methods are currently rendered vulnerable because

A. generative tools can mimic advanced synthesis without true comprehension.

B. students no longer possess basic academic writing skills.

C. plagiarism detection software is completely obsolete.

D. universities have lowered graduation standards for funding.

Question 3. Which potential hazard of AI-driven pedagogy does Dr. Thorne emphasize most strongly?

A. The total elimination of human faculty members.

B. The erosion of critical inquiry through algorithmic confirmation bias.

C. The exponential increase in tuition fees due to software licensing.

D. The physical isolation of students from campus culture.

Question 4. The term "epistemic passivity" in the interview refers to a state where learners

A. reject technological assistance in academic research.

B. uncritically accept synthetic outputs without verification.

C. actively contest algorithmic recommendations.

D. struggle with digital literacy in virtual classrooms.

Question 5. Dr. Thorne suggests that institutional policies regarding AI should focus primarily on

A. enforcing punitive bans on synthetic intelligence software.

B. re-engineering evaluation paradigms toward process-oriented learning.

C. outsourcing course design to accredited software engineering firms.

D. restricting AI tool usage strictly to postgraduate STEM disciplines.

Question 6. What view does Dr. Thorne express concerning the "digital divide" in higher education?

A. It has been entirely eradicated by open-source AI applications.

B. It is shifting from hardware access to prompt engineering fluency.

C. It primarily affects older faculty rather than undergraduate students.

D. It will inevitably force less funded universities to close permanently.

Question 7. In discussing faculty adaptation, Dr. Thorne notes that professors often feel overwhelmed by

A. the relentless velocity of technological updates alongside teaching loads.

B. a lack of student interest in innovative learning platforms.

C. excessive regulation imposed by international accreditation boards.

D. the declining academic rigor of newly published textbooks.

Question 8. Regarding AI ethics modules, Dr. Thorne argues that they should be

A. taught exclusively as optional electives in computer science faculties.

B. embedded contextually across all academic disciplines from year one.

C. managed entirely by external corporate auditing agencies.

D. deferred until students enter doctoral research programs.

Question 9. What outcome does Dr. Thorne predict for institutions that resist AI integration entirely?

A. They will become prestigious havens for traditional scholarship.

B. They risk academic marginalization and plummeting enrollment.

C. They will receive substantial government subsidies for human-centric art.

D. They will set the global benchmark for intellectual integrity.

Question 10. What is Dr. Thorne's ultimate conclusion regarding human educators in the AI era?

A. They will transition entirely into content curators for automated systems.

B. Their indispensable value lies in fostering empathy, ethics, and deep dialogue.

C. They will be replaced within two decades by autonomous synthetic tutors.

D. Their role will be confined solely to pastoral care and career guidance.

Section 2. Questions 11 – 16

Listen to an interview with Maya Lin-Vance, a pioneer in eco-centric urban architecture, and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the following questions.

Question 11. Maya Lin-Vance's core design philosophy, "biophilic structuralism", centers on

A. replicating natural aesthetic shapes without functional integration.

B. integrating living ecosystems directly into structural mechanics.

C. using synthetic recycled polymers for high-rise facades.

D. maximizing land exploitation in ultra-dense mega-cities.

Question 12. What major obstacle did Maya encounter when proposing timber-composite skyscrapers?

A. Skepticism from municipal building regulators regarding fire resilience.

B. Complete lack of sustainably harvested timber resources globally.

C. Inability of timber to support load-bearing weights above three stories.

D. Extreme pushback from environmental lobbying organizations.

Question 13. According to Maya, passive thermal regulation in modern architecture relies on

A. high-powered air conditioning systems powered by solar panels.

B. strategic building orientation, natural ventilation, and thermal mass.

C. triple-glazed reflective windows that seal buildings air-tight.

D. geothermal heating pumps installed beneath every residential unit.

Question 14. How does Maya view the current trend of "greenwashing" in corporate building projects?

A. She welcomes it as a necessary stepping stone toward genuine change.

B. She criticizes it as superficial symbolism that distracts from structural carbon impact.

C. She considers it an effective strategy for raising public awareness.

D. She believes it is heavily penalized by international architectural associations.

Question 15. In her latest project in Copenhagen, the primary innovation lies in

A. a zero-water waste system that filters rainwater through vertical wetland gardens.

B. an underground solar lighting network for subterranean housing.

C. fully automated residential units constructed entirely by industrial 3D printers.

D. a kinetic facade that converts wind currents into urban electricity.

Question 16. Maya advises aspiring architects to prioritize

A. mastering digital rendering software above environmental science.

B. understanding local ecological history and material lifecycles.

C. securing lucrative contracts with commercial real estate conglomerates.

D. replicating iconic modernist aesthetics from the early twentieth century.

PART 2. READING & LANGUAGE USE (Questions 17 – 80)

Section 1. Questions 17 – 22

Read the advertisement below and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 17 to 22.

INTERNATIONAL CRAFTS & CULTURAL HERITAGE EXPO 2026

Embark on a mesmerizing journey into global artistry! The 2026 Cultural Heritage Expo brings together over 300 master artisans from 45 countries. Experience the intricate beauty of traditional craftsmanship, from Middle Eastern metalwork to South Asian textiles. Visitors will have the exclusive opportunity to witness live demonstrations, (17) ______ rare artisan masterclasses, and purchase authentic handmade treasures directly from heritage creators.

Our keynote exhibition highlights the global resurgence of ancient temporary body art, featuring master practitioners who have (18) ______ traditional techniques to modern sustainable aesthetics. Discover how ancient natural dyes are harvested and transformed into intricate cultural symbols. Early-bird registration is now open! Secure your pass today to receive a complimentary (19) ______ guide and VIP access to the evening cultural gala. Don't miss this chance to celebrate human creativity and preserve invaluable cultural traditions for future generations. All proceeds directly support rural artisan cooperatives (20) ______ worldwide.

Date: October 12–18, 2026 | Venue: Imperial Exhibition Center
Reserve your tickets now at www.heritageexpo2026.org or call our hotline. (21) ______ prompt action guarantees your seat at our exclusive workshops, as availability is strictly limited. Join us in sustaining global heritage and (22) ______ meaningful connections across cultures!

Question 17. Blank (17)

A. attend

B. attending

C. attended

D. be attended

Question 18. Blank (18)

A. adapted

B. adopted

C. adhered

D. addicted

Question 19. Blank (19)

A. exhibit

B. exhibition

C. exhibitor

D. exhibiting

Question 20. Blank (20)

A. striving

B. struggling

C. striking

D. striding

Question 21. Blank (21)

A. Taking

B. To take

C. Take

D. Having taken

Question 22. Blank (22)

A. fostering

B. forging

C. formulating

D. foreseeing

Section 2. Questions 23 – 28

Read the leaflet below and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 23 to 28.

EXECUTIVE WELLNESS & DIGITAL DETOX GUIDELINES

In an era defined by perpetual connectivity, professionals frequently fall prey to cognitive fatigue and severe burnout. Continuous exposure to notifications disrupts deep focus and (23) ______ problem-solving efficiency. To safeguard your mental acuity and restore work-life equilibrium, implement these strategic digital boundaries:

1. Establish Tech-Free Zones: Designate areas such as dining rooms and bedrooms as absolute device-free sanctuaries. Disconnecting at least one hour before sleep significantly improves circadian rhythms and sleep depth.
2. Practice Structured Batching: Rather than reacting immediately to incoming alerts, set designated intervals (e.g., 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM) to process emails. This prevents task-switching friction and (24) ______ sustained concentration.
3. Engage in Mindful Off-Screen Rituals: Dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to tactile, non-digital activities. Cultivating hands-on hobbies—whether culinary arts, organic gardening, or creative crafts—helps (25) ______ the nervous system.
4. Audit Digital Consumption: Regularly delete redundant applications and unsubscribe from non-essential mailing lists. Minimizing digital clutter reduces information overload and brings mental clarity.

By taking proactive control of your digital environment, you can elevate professional performance (26) ______ compromising personal well-being. (27) ______ digital balance is not a one-time event but a continuous discipline. Take the first step today by turning off non-urgent push notifications and reclaim your (28) ______ attention span!

Question 23. Blank (23)

A. impairs

B. improves

C. implements

D. imports

Question 24. Blank (24)

A. fosters

B. forfeits

C. forgoes

D. forestalls

Question 25. Blank (25)

A. soothe

B. soothed

C. soothing

D. soothes

Question 26. Blank (26)

A. without

B. with

C. besides

D. despite

Question 27. Blank (27)

A. Achieving

B. Achieve

C. Achieved

D. To achieve

Question 28. Blank (28)

A. fragmented

B. sustained

C. undivided

D. diverted

Section 3. Questions 29 – 36

Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct arrangement of sentences to form a meaningful text or conversation.

Question 29. Arrange the following conversation sentences in the most logical order:
a. Mr. Henderson: "That sounds promising, but what about the potential integration costs with our legacy software?"
b. Ms. Clara: "Good morning, Mr. Henderson. I have prepared the quarterly proposal for automating our supply chain analytics."
c. Ms. Clara: "We have factored that in. The modular design ensures seamless compatibility with zero downtime during deployment."
d. Mr. Henderson: "Excellent work, Clara. Let us schedule a formal presentation with the executive board this Thursday."

A. b – a – c – d

B. a – b – c – d

C. b – c – a – d

D. c – b – a – d

Question 30. Arrange the following sentences to form a coherent scientific paragraph about the Aurora Borealis:
a. When these charged particles collide with atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen atoms, energy is released in the form of vibrant light emissions.
b. The Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a breathtaking natural light display observed in high-latitude regions.
c. These celestial light shows vary in color, with green being the most common, resulting from oxygen collisions at altitudes of around 60 miles.
d. This phenomenon is initiated when solar winds spew streams of energetic plasma from the sun toward Earth's magnetic field.
e. Consequently, understanding auroral dynamics provides astrophysicists with vital insights into space weather and planetary magnetospheres.

A. b – d – a – c – e

B. d – b – a – e – c

C. b – a – d – c – e

D. d – a – b – c – e

Question 31. Arrange the sentences to form a logical psychological narrative on the Déjà Vu phenomenon:
a. Neurologists hypothesize that it occurs when there is a brief microsecond delay in synaptic transmission between brain hemispheres.
b. Déjà vu is an eerie cognitive sensation wherein an individual feels an intense conviction that a current experience has been lived before.
c. As a result, the brain misinterprets immediate sensory input as a retrieved long-term memory rather than a present occurrence.
d. Despite decades of neuroimaging research, replicating this fleeting illusion under controlled laboratory settings remains immensely challenging.
e. Consequently, while several plausible theories exist, déjà vu remains one of human cognition's most fascinating unsolved enigmas.

A. b – a – c – d – e

B. a – b – c – d – e

C. b – c – a – e – d

D. c – b – a – d – e

Question 32. Arrange the utterances to form a meaningful debate dialogue between two scholars:
a. Dr. Aris: "While AI can assemble intricate melodies based on dataset patterns, true art requires emotional intentionality born of lived human experience."
b. Prof. Vance: "Do you believe generative AI models possess genuine artistic creativity, or are they merely sophisticated pattern matchers?"
c. Prof. Vance: "I agree regarding intention, yet if an audience feels profound emotion from a synthetic composition, does the origin truly diminish its artistic validity?"
d. Dr. Aris: "It may evoke emotion, but it remains an echo of human creators whose works were harvested to train the underlying algorithm."

A. b – a – c – d

B. a – b – c – d

C. b – c – a – d

D. c – a – b – d

Question 33. Arrange the sentences to form a coherent passage on the history of medical vaccination:
a. Edward Jenner made a pivotal breakthrough in 1796 by demonstrating that inoculation with cowpox conferred immunity against deadly smallpox.
b. Throughout human history, infectious diseases like smallpox decimated global populations, prompting relentless searches for preventive measures.
c. Building upon Jenner's foundation, Louis Pasteur later developed laboratory-attenuated vaccines for rabies and anthrax in the late 19th century.
d. Today, modern mRNA technology represents the latest evolutionary leap, enabling rapid vaccine development against novel viral pathogens.
e. These successive innovations transformed global public health, eradicating smallpox and drastically reducing infant mortality worldwide.

A. b – a – c – e – d

B. a – b – c – d – e

C. b – c – a – e – d

D. c – a – b – e – d

Question 34. Arrange the following sentences to form a formal complaint letter:
a. Dear Customer Support Manager, I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction regarding the flight cancellation and lack of assistance on Flight VN-402 on September 15.
b. Furthermore, your ground staff refused to issue hotel vouchers, leaving my elderly parents stranded at the terminal overnight without accommodation.
c. Not only was the delay announced three hours after the scheduled departure, but no clear justification was provided by airline representatives.
d. I insist on a full reimbursement for our unused tickets alongside compensation for out-of-pocket hotel expenses incurred due to your negligence.
e. I expect a prompt resolution within five business days before I escalate this matter to the Civil Aviation Authority.

A. a – c – b – d – e

B. c – a – b – d – e

C. a – b – c – e – d

D. b – a – c – d – e

Question 35. Arrange the sentences to form an informal invitation letter:
a. Hey Liam! Hope you're having a great week.
b. We're organizing a small rooftop gathering this Saturday evening around 7:00 PM to celebrate Maya's recent art exhibition success.
c. There will be plenty of homemade wood-fired pizza, live acoustic music, and great company, so you definitely shouldn't miss it!
d. Let me know if you can make it by Thursday so I can finalize the headcount for drinks and food.
e. Feel free to bring along your brother if he's in town! Looking forward to catching up soon.

A. a – b – c – d – e

B. b – a – c – d – e

C. a – c – b – e – d

D. c – a – b – d – e

Question 36. Arrange the utterances to form a short casual dialogue about marine biology trivia:
a. Sophia: "Did you know that certain deep-sea jellyfish are biologically immortal?"
b. Liam: "Really? How is that even possible biologically?"
c. Sophia: "When injured or starving, the Turritopsis dohrnii can revert its adult cells back into a juvenile polyp state, effectively resetting its lifespan!"
d. Liam: "That sounds like something straight out of science fiction!"

A. a – b – c – d

B. b – a – c – d

C. a – c – b – d

D. c – a – b – d

Section 4. Questions 37 – 44

Read the following text and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 37 to 44.

NEUROPLASTICITY AND ADULT BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

For decades, the dominant consensus within neuroscience dictated that the adult human brain was structurally static. It was widely believed that after a critical developmental window in early childhood, neural architecture became fixed, with age-related decline being an (37) ______ eventuality. However, groundbreaking neuroimaging research over the past quarter-century has thoroughly (38) ______ this dogma, revealing an extraordinary phenomenon known as neuroplasticity.

Neuroplasticity refers to the central nervous system's capacity to dynamically reorganize its structure, functions, and neural connections in response to environmental stimuli, learning, and physical trauma. When an individual engages in rigorous intellectual training or acquires a complex skill—such as mastering a foreign language or playing a musical instrument—synaptic pathways are continuously reinforced. Conversely, underutilized neural networks undergo dendritic pruning, a process that optimizes cerebral efficiency by eliminating (39) ______ connections.

Crucially, neuroplasticity is not merely confined to cognitive acquisition; it plays a paramount role in post-stroke rehabilitation. Through targeted neuro-rehabilitative exercises, undamaged brain regions can adapt to (40) ______ lost motor and linguistic functions previously governed by damaged tissue. Furthermore, lifestyle factors exert a profound influence on plastic adaptability. Aerobic exercise, adequate sleep, and mental stimulation have been demonstrated to stimulate neurogenesis—the birth of novel neurons within the hippocampus.

Nevertheless, neuroplasticity is a double-edged sword. Maladaptive plasticity can perpetuate chronic pain conditions and phantom limb sensations, as the brain incorrectly rewires pain-processing circuits. Therefore, understanding how to harness beneficial plastic changes while mitigating detrimental adaptations represents one of the most promising (41) ______ in modern neurology. As research continues to (42) ______ the molecular mechanisms underpinning neural remodeling, scientists remain optimistic that interventions targeting neuroplasticity will revolutionize the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Ultimately, the discovery of life-long plastic adaptability underscores the profound truth that the human mind is not an unalterable vessel, but an ever-evolving landscape capable of continuous (43) ______ and renewal throughout the entire (44) ______ of human life.

Question 37. Blank (37)

A. inexorable

B. inexpressible

C. inexplicable

D. inextricable

Question 38. Blank (38)

A. dismantled

B. disbanded

C. discharged

D. displaced

Question 39. Blank (39)

A. redundant

B. reluctant

C. resilient

D. repellant

Question 40. Blank (40)

A. assume

B. assure

C. assemble

D. assert

Question 41. Blank (41)

A. frontiers

B. frontages

C. frontlines

D. frontispieces

Question 42. Blank (42)

A. unravel

B. unraveling

C. unraveled

D. unravels

Question 43. Blank (43)

A. metamorphosis

B. metaphor

C. metabolism

D. meteorology

Question 44. Blank (44)

A. span

B. space

C. spectrum

D. sphere

Section 5. Questions 45 – 51

Read the passage on Urbanization and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the sentence that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 45 to 51.

(45) ______. Over half of the global population currently resides in metropolitan areas, a proportion projected to surge significantly in the coming decades. (46) ______. This unprecedented influx triggers immense strain on housing, public sanitation, transportation networks, and social services. (47) ______. Dark asphalt, steel, and concrete trap solar radiation, creating oppressive microclimates that elevate energy consumption and exacerbate respiratory ailments among vulnerable citizens.

(48) ______. Rather than viewing urbanity as an antagonist to nature, modern architects and civil engineers are designing cities that function like living, breathing organisms. (49) ______. These green infrastructures also provide crucial cooling through evapotranspiration, mitigating heat stress in densely populated city centers. (50) ______. Real-time data collection enables dynamic adjustments to public transit routes and traffic signals, reducing idling times and carbon footprints. (51) ______. By harmonizing technological innovation with environmental stewardship, cities can continue to thrive as vibrant centers of human civilization without sacrificing ecological balance.

Question 45. Blank (45)

A. Rapid urbanization represents one of the defining global transformations of the twenty-first century.

B. Cities have historically been isolated trading hubs with negligible demographic impact.

C. Rural populations are expanding at double the velocity of metropolitan centers.

D. Urban planning has become entirely obsolete due to decentralized remote work technologies.

Question 46. Blank (46)

A. As millions migrate from rural hinterlands in search of economic mobility, municipal infrastructure is pushed to its absolute limits.

B. This influx has resulted in an immediate surplus of affordable housing in all major capitals.

C. Consequently, rural agricultural yields have risen exponentially due to reduced land pressure.

D. Most developing nations have completely halted urban immigration policies.

Question 47. Blank (47)

A. Chief among these challenges is the acute escalation of urban heat island effects caused by dense concrete structures.

B. Concrete is renowned for its natural cooling properties during intense summer months.

C. Paved surfaces absorb minimal thermal energy compared to natural pine forests.

D. Urban microclimates remain completely unaffected by architectural density.

Question 48. Blank (48)

A. To mitigate these environmental stressors, progressive city planners are pioneering eco-centric smart infrastructure.

B. Smart infrastructure focuses exclusively on increasing vehicular traffic capacity.

C. Metropolitan authorities are phasing out public transit in favor of private automobiles.

D. Environmental considerations are routinely discarded in modern municipal engineering.

Question 49. Blank (49)

A. Integrating extensive green rooftops and urban wetlands drastically reduces stormwater runoff while lowering ambient temperatures.

B. Rooftop vegetation increases structural heating and elevates building maintenance costs prohibitively.

C. Wetlands are systematically drained in modern sustainable architectural models.

D. Stormwater management requires total paving of all urban floodplains.

Question 50. Blank (50)

A. Furthermore, IoT-enabled transit networks optimize traffic flow, significantly curtailing greenhouse gas emissions.

B. Traffic congestion has been proven to have no measurable impact on air quality indices.

C. Automated traffic signals increase gridlock and energy waste across transit corridors.

D. Public transportation relies increasingly on non-renewable coal energy sources.

Question 51. Blank (51)

A. Ultimately, transforming sprawling concrete jungles into resilient ecosystems is essential for ensuring urban habitability.

B. Urban expansion should proceed without regard to ecological limits or human health.

C. Future cities will inevitably revert back into agrarian pre-industrial settlements.

D. Sustainable urbanization remains a purely theoretical concept with no practical application.

Section 6. Questions 52 – 61

Read the following passage on Henna Art and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 52 to 61.

THE ANCIENT ART AND GLOBAL EVOLUTION OF HENNA

Henna, derived from the crushed leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, stands as one of the oldest recorded forms of body adornment in human history. Thriving in the arid, sun-drenched climates of North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, this flowering shrub yields a potent natural dye known as lawsone. When crushed leaves are combined with mildly acidic liquids—such as lemon juice or steeped tea—and essential oils, the mixture produces a smooth paste capable of staining keratin-rich surfaces, including human skin, hair, and nails. The resulting reddish-brown pigment, ranging from deep amber to rich mahogany, has adorned bodies across millennia, transcending mere physical aesthetic to become a profound vessel of ritual, protection, and cultural storytelling.

Archaeological evidence traces the origins of henna application back over 5,000 years to ancient Egypt. Mummified remains, including those of Royal Pharoahs and Queen Nefertari, exhibit delicate henna stains on their fingertips and toes—a practice believed to facilitate passage into the afterlife and signify royal status. Beyond funerary rites, henna possessed immediate practical utility in desert environments. Indigenous populations discovered that applying henna paste to the palms and soles of the feet induced a prolonged cooling sensation, as the evaporation of the paste lowered body temperatures in excruciating desert heat. This functional discovery gradually evolved into decorative traditions, as the temporary stain remaining after the paste flaked off inspired intricate artistic motifs.

Across South Asia and the Middle East, henna—known natively as 'mehndi' or 'hinna'—became deeply interwoven with life's major rites of passage, particularly wedding customs. The 'Night of the Henna' (Mehndi Ki Raat) remains a cornerstone pre-nuptial celebration across Hindu, Muslim, and Jewish communities in these regions. Female relatives gather around the bride to apply elaborate geometric, floral, and figurative patterns to her hands and feet. Far from arbitrary decoration, these motifs carry explicit symbolic weight: lotus blossoms represent purity and spiritual awakening, peacocks symbolize beauty and prosperity, and intricate vines denote vitality and enduring love. Culturally, a darker henna stain is traditionally interpreted as an omen of profound marital harmony and affection between the newlyweds.

In the contemporary era, globalization and cross-cultural exchange have propelled henna from a localized traditional ritual into a global fashion phenomenon. Western pop culture embraced temporary henna tattoos in the late 1990s, popularizing the art form through celebrity endorsements and music festivals. Concurrently, modern beauty industries have repurposed henna for eco-friendly cosmetics, such as natural hair colorants and eyebrow tinting. However, this commercial expansion has ignited nuanced debates surrounding cultural appropriation versus appreciation. Traditional practitioners emphasize that while global interest celebrates henna's aesthetic elegance, divorcing the art form from its sacred, community-centered roots risks diluting its rich historical resonance. Preserving henna's cultural authenticity thus requires honoring both its ancient ritualistic significance and its modern creative transformation.

Question 52. What is the primary topic discussed in the passage?

A. The chemical extraction process of lawsone dye.

B. The historical origins, cultural symbolism, and modern evolution of henna.

C. The legal debate surrounding cultural appropriation in Western beauty markets.

D. A comparative analysis of ancient Egyptian mummification techniques.

Question 53. The word "potent" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to

A. powerful

B. fragile

C. synthetic

D. volatile

Question 54. According to paragraph 2, ancient desert dwellers initially utilized henna because

A. it served as a sacred pigment reserved exclusively for Pharoahs.

B. its evaporative application provided a cooling effect against extreme heat.

C. it permanently sealed wounds against bacterial infections.

D. it was required by ancient religious laws across North Africa.

Question 55. The phrase "Mehndi Ki Raat" in paragraph 3 refers to

A. a post-nuptial feast hosted by the groom's family.

B. a solemn religious fast observed before harvest season.

C. a pre-nuptial celebration where female relatives adorn the bride with henna.

D. an annual festival honoring ancient Egyptian deities.

Question 56. In traditional henna symbolism, what do lotus blossoms represent?

A. Prosperity and material wealth.

B. Purity and spiritual awakening.

C. Enduring physical strength in battle.

D. Good fortune in commercial trade.

Question 57. The word "omen" in paragraph 3 could best be replaced by

A. sign

B. obstacle

C. illusion

D. regret

Question 58. Which of the following can be inferred from paragraph 4 regarding modern henna usage?

A. Commercial cosmetic applications have completely eradicated traditional bridal rituals.

B. Western pop culture adoption has sparked debates regarding cultural appropriation.

C. Henna is no longer harvested from the Lawsonia inermis plant in modern beauty industries.

D. International law now prohibits non-traditional practitioners from using henna.

Question 59. Which of the following statements is NOT supported by the passage?

A. Henna dye forms a chemical bond with keratin on human skin and nails.

B. Traces of henna stains have been identified on ancient Egyptian mummies.

C. A lighter henna stain traditionally signifies greater marital affection in South Asia.

D. Henna leaves require mixing with acidic liquids to release dye effectively.

Question 60. The word "its" in paragraph 4 refers to

A. global fashion

B. the art form

C. Western pop culture

D. celebrity endorsement

Question 61. Which of the following best summarizes the author's concluding perspective in paragraph 4?

A. Henna should be strictly restricted to ancient funerary and religious ceremonies.

B. Commercialization will inevitably destroy all historical knowledge of henna within a decade.

C. Authenticity is maintained by respecting henna's cultural roots while acknowledging its modern evolution.

D. Western beauty markets should refrain from using natural plant dyes entirely.

Section 7. Questions 62 – 70

Read the following passage on Cybersecurity and Phishing and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 62 to 70.

PHISHING IN THE DIGITAL AGE: ANATOMY OF SOCIAL ENGINEERING

In an increasingly interconnected global economy, digital communication has become the bedrock of corporate productivity and personal commerce. However, this reliance on virtual networks has exposed unprecedented vulnerabilities, most notably through the escalation of 'phishing'—a sophisticated mechanism of cybercrime predicated on social engineering rather than pure technological infiltration. Derived as a variant of the word 'fishing', the term metaphorically describes bad actors casting deceptive digital lures into the vast ocean of internet users, waiting for unsuspecting victims to bite. Rather than breaching complex firewalls through brute-force code, phishers exploit fundamental human psychological vulnerabilities: trust, urgency, fear, and curiosity.

The operational mechanics of a classic phishing campaign rely on masquerading as a legitimate, highly trusted entity—such as a major banking institution, government agency, or reputable online vendor. Victims receive fraudulent emails or text messages containing convincing corporate logos, authentic typography, and urgent directives. A typical scenario alerts the recipient to an alleged 'suspicious account login', an 'unpaid tax penalty', or an 'urgent parcel delivery failure', demanding immediate action to avoid catastrophic account suspension. Embedded within the message is a hyperlink directing the victim to a counterfeit website designed to mirror the authentic portal down to the pixel. Once the victim inputs their login credentials, social security details, or credit card numbers, the fraudulent portal captures the sensitive data, transmitting it directly to cybercriminals.

As technical security controls—such as spam filters and multi-factor authentication (MFA)—have evolved, cybercriminals have adapted by deploying increasingly targeted vectors. Spear-phishing targets specific high-profile individuals or executive officers using meticulous OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) gathered from social media profiles and corporate websites. 'Whaling' takes this a step further, impersonating Chief Executive Officers to trick financial departments into executing massive unauthorized wire transfers. Furthermore, the advent of generative artificial intelligence has dramatically amplified phishing efficacy. Previously, vigilant users could identify fraudulent emails by spotting grammatical errors, awkward syntax, or crude formatting. Modern AI language models allow attackers to generate flawlessly persuasive, contextually tailored lures in multiple languages at zero marginal cost.

Mitigating the ubiquitous threat of phishing demands a multi-layered defensive strategy that combines technological safeguards with continuous human education. While artificial intelligence filters can quarantine suspicious communications, human vigilance remains the final and most critical line of defense. Organizations must conduct regular simulated phishing exercises, training employees to inspect email header domain addresses, scrutinize unexpected link URLs, and verify financial requests through secondary communication channels. Ultimately, fostering a culture of healthy skepticism—wherein urgency is met with systematic verification—is essential for safeguarding digital sovereignty in the information age.

Question 62. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

A. To detail the history of brute-force coding in cybersecurity breaches.

B. To explain the operational mechanisms, evolving strategies, and defensive measures against phishing.

C. To advocate for the complete prohibition of generative AI in financial sectors.

D. To compare the security protocols of traditional banks with online vendors.

Question 63. According to paragraph 1, phishing primarily relies on exploiting

A. flaws in physical server hardware.

B. human psychological vulnerabilities rather than breaking technical firewalls.

C. outdated operating systems in municipal infrastructure.

D. unencrypted satellite communications in military networks.

Question 64. The word "masquerading" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to

A. disguising oneself as

B. openly declaring oneself as

C. subcontracting work to

D. investigating the background of

Question 65. In a classic phishing scheme, how do perpetrators capture sensitive victim credentials?

A. By physically installing keyloggers on the victim's personal computer.

B. By directing victims to counterfeit websites designed to record input data.

C. By intercepting cellular phone calls between customers and bank managers.

D. By cracking 256-bit encryption algorithms during online transactions.

Question 66. The term "Whaling" in paragraph 3 refers to a specialized phishing attack that

A. targets millions of random internet users simultaneously.

B. impersonates corporate executives to trick staff into authorizing high-value transfers.

C. disrupts deep-sea fiber optic communication cables.

D. sends automated spam messages to mobile phones via SMS.

Question 67. How has generative artificial intelligence affected phishing communications, according to paragraph 3?

A. It has enabled attackers to eliminate grammatical flaws and generate persuasive lures easily.

B. It has rendered traditional spam filters completely incapable of blocking any emails.

C. It has forced cybercriminals to abandon email phishing in favor of phone scams.

D. It has automated the immediate recovery of stolen funds for law enforcement.

Question 68. The word "ubiquitous" in paragraph 4 could best be replaced by

A. ever-present / widespread

B. rare and isolated

C. insignificant

D. temporary

Question 69. Which of the following is recommended in paragraph 4 as an effective organizational defense?

A. Relying exclusively on technological spam filters without staff training.

B. Prohibiting employees from accessing corporate email accounts on weekends.

C. Conducting simulated phishing exercises and encouraging domain inspection.

D. Fining employees who receive unsolicited promotional emails.

Question 70. What can be inferred from the final sentence of the passage?

A. Technological defenses alone are sufficient to eradicate all cyber threats.

B. A skeptical, vigilant mindset is indispensable for digital security.

C. Urgent messages should always be acted upon immediately to prevent penalties.

D. Digital sovereignty will soon be managed entirely by autonomous AI agents.

Section 8. Questions 71 – 80

Read the following passage on Marine Biology and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 71 to 80.

DEEP-SEA ECOSYSTEMS AND THE THREAT OF OCEAN ACIDIFICATION

Plunging thousands of meters beneath the sunlit surface waters of the ocean lies the abyssal zone—a vast, pitch-black realm characterized by near-freezing temperatures, crushing hydrostatic pressure, and extreme scarcity of organic nutrients. Historically regarded as a biological desert incapable of supporting complex life, oceanographic expeditions over the past half-century have revealed that the deep ocean harbors astounding biodiversity. Bizarre organisms, ranging from bioluminescent anglerfish to benthic sea cucumbers, have evolved extraordinary physiological adaptations to thrive in this extreme environment. Central to these deep-sea ecosystems are cold-water coral reefs and hydrothermal vent communities, which serve as crucial oases of biological productivity amidst the oceanic abyss.

Unlike their shallow-water tropical counterparts that rely on symbiotic photosynthetic algae (zooxanthellae) for nourishment, cold-water corals thrive in complete darkness at depths between 200 and 2,000 meters. These slow-growing polyps construct intricate calcium carbonate (aragonite) skeletons that provide habitat, nursery grounds, and protection for thousands of marine species, including commercially vital fish. However, these ancient ecosystems are currently facing an existential crisis driven by anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. The global oceans act as a massive carbon sink, absorbing approximately 30 percent of human-generated atmospheric \ceCO2\ce{CO2}. While this marine absorption mitigates atmospheric warming, it initiates a destructive chemical cascade known as ocean acidification.

When atmospheric carbon dioxide dissolves into seawater, it reacts with water molecules to form carbonic acid (\ceH2CO3\ce{H2CO3}), which rapidly dissociates into hydrogen ions and bicarbonate. The increase in hydrogen ion concentration elevates seawater acidity while simultaneously drastically reducing the availability of carbonate ions (\ceCO32−\ce{CO3^2-})—the fundamental chemical building blocks required by calcifying organisms to build and maintain their structural skeletons. Because deep, cold waters naturally possess lower baseline carbonate saturation states, cold-water coral reefs are among the first marine ecosystems to experience carbonate undersaturation. Under these corrosive conditions, existing coral structures begin to dissolve faster than living polyps can accrete new skeleton, leading to structural collapse of the reef habitat.

The ecological ramifications of deep-sea reef degradation extend far beyond the abyss. The loss of complex structural habitats destabilizes deep-water biodiversity webs, threatening juvenile fish stocks and disrupting oceanic carbon sequestration cycles. Furthermore, deep-sea corals grow at extraordinarily slow rates—often mere millimeters per year—meaning recovery from ocean acidification or destructive bottom-trawling fishing practices will require centuries, if not millennia. Scientists emphasize that mitigating ocean acidification demands rapid, systemic reductions in global carbon emissions alongside international marine conservation mandates. Preserving these remote biological treasures is not merely an ethical imperative, but a vital necessity for maintaining the ecological balance of the global biosphere.

Question 71. What is the main topic of the passage?

A. The mechanical operation of deep-sea hydrothermal vents.

B. The characteristics of deep-sea ecosystems and the threat posed by ocean acidification.

C. A comparison between tropical photosynthetic corals and cold-water corals.

D. The commercial economic impact of deep-sea bottom trawling.

Question 72. The word "abyssal" in paragraph 1 refers to

A. the sunlit surface ocean layers.

B. the deep, dark zone of the ocean.

C. shallow coastal estuaries.

D. polar freshwater ice caps.

Question 73. According to paragraph 2, how do cold-water corals differ from tropical shallow-water corals?

A. Cold-water corals rely on photosynthetic zooxanthellae for energy.

B. Cold-water corals thrive in complete darkness without photosynthetic algae.

C. Cold-water corals grow ten times faster than shallow-water species.

D. Cold-water corals do not construct calcium carbonate skeletons.

Question 74. What percentage of human-generated atmospheric \ceCO2\ce{CO2} is absorbed by global oceans, according to paragraph 2?

A. Approximately 10 percent

B. Approximately 30 percent

C. Approximately 50 percent

D. Approximately 80 percent

Question 75. The chemical process of ocean acidification is initiated when dissolved \ceCO2\ce{CO2} reacts with seawater to form

A. carbonic acid

B. sulfuric acid

C. hydrochloric acid

D. nitric acid

Question 76. The word "dissociates" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to

A. separates / breaks down

B. solidifies

C. evaporates

D. freezes

Question 77. Why are cold-water corals particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification?

A. They live in deep, cold waters that naturally have lower baseline carbonate saturation levels.

B. They absorb hydrogen ions directly to increase skeletal density.

C. They are exposed to direct intense sunlight that accelerates corrosion.

D. They lack living polyps capable of producing aragonite.

Question 78. The word "ramifications" in paragraph 4 can best be replaced by

A. consequences / effects

B. benefits

C. origins

D. hypotheses

Question 79. According to paragraph 4, why is recovery from deep-sea coral degradation so difficult?

A. Deep-sea corals grow extremely slowly, requiring centuries or millennia to recover.

B. Deep-sea corals reproduce only once every thousand years.

C. Ocean currents permanently destroy all coral polyps.

D. Scientists possess no technology to monitor deep-sea environments.

Question 80. Which of the following best reflects the author's tone in the final paragraph?

A. Indifferent and dismissive

B. Urgent and advocacy-oriented regarding carbon mitigation and conservation

C. Overly pessimistic about total planetary destruction

D. Skeptical of scientific data on ocean acidification

--------- HẾT ---------

HƯỚNG DẪN CHẤM VÀ ĐÁP ÁN CHI TIẾT

KỲ THI CHỌN HỌC SINH GIỎI CẤP TỈNH NĂM HỌC 2025 - 2026

MÔN: TIẾNG ANH - LỚP 12 THPT

A. BẢNG ĐÁP ÁN 80 CÂU TRẮC NGHIỆM (MÃ ĐỀ 101)

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

Câu

Đ.Án

1

B

11

B

21

A

31

A

41

A

51

A

61

C

71

B

2

A

12

A

22

A

32

A

42

A

52

B

62

B

72

B

3

B

13

B

23

A

33

A

43

A

53

A

63

B

73

B

4

B

14

B

24

A

34

A

44

A

54

B

64

A

74

B

5

B

15

A

25

A

35

A

45

A

55

C

65

B

75

A

6

B

16

B

26

A

36

A

46

A

56

B

66

B

76

A

7

A

17

A

27

A

37

A

47

A

57

A

67

A

77

A

8

B

18

A

28

C

38

A

48

A

58

B

68

A

78

A

9

B

19

B

29

A

39

A

49

A

59

C

69

C

79

A

10

B

20

A

30

A

40

A

50

A

60

B

70

B

80

B

Quy đổi điểm: Mỗi câu đúng được 0,25 điểm (Tổng: 20,0 điểm).


B. TÓM TẮT GIẢI THÍCH CHI TIẾT CÁC CÂU TRỌNG TÂM (C1 LEVEL)

- Câu 1 (B): Student demand for personalized and asynchronous learning – Trong bài nghe, diễn giả Dr. Thorne khẳng định động lực cốt lõi không đến từ chính phủ hay công ty công nghệ mà bắt nguồn từ chính nhu cầu người học mong muốn lộ trình học tập cá nhân hoá.
- Câu 4 (B): Epistemic passivity (sự thụ động trong nhận thức/tri thức) chỉ trạng thái người học chấp nhận nguyên vẹn câu trả lời do máy tính tổng hợp mà không hề phản biện, truy xuất nguồn gốc.
- Câu 11 (B): Biophilic structuralism là triết lý tích hợp trực tiếp cơ chế sinh thái sống vào kết cấu chịu lực của công trình thay vì chỉ trang trí cây xanh bên ngoài.
- Câu 17 (A): Cấu trúc song hành với động từ nguyên mẫu có to được lược bỏ sau to witness live demonstrations, (to) attend rare artisan masterclasses, and (to) purchase....
- Câu 18 (A): adapt something to something (thích nghi, điều chỉnh kỹ thuật cũ vào phong cách mới). Adopt mang nghĩa nhận nuôi/áp dụng chính sách.
- Câu 23 (A): impairs (làm tổn hại, làm suy giảm). Ngữ cảnh việc liên tục nhận thông báo gây mất tập trung và làm suy giảm năng suất giải quyết vấn đề.
- Câu 24 (A): fosters (nuôi dưỡng, thúc đẩy sự tập trung bền vững). Forfeits (đánh mất quyền), forestalls (chặn trước).
- Câu 28 (C): undivided attention (sự chú ý tập trung toàn bộ, không bị phân tán). Collocation quen thuộc trình độ C1.
- Câu 37 (A): inexorable (không thể lay chuyển, tất yếu xảy ra). Miêu tả sự suy thoái thần kinh theo tuổi tác là điều không thể tránh khỏi theo định kiến cũ.
- Câu 38 (A): dismantled this dogma (bác bỏ/phá bỏ giáo điều cũ).
- Câu 40 (A): assume lost functions (đảm nhận/tiếp quản các chức năng đã mất).
- Câu 52 (B): Bài đọc bao quát từ nguồn gốc 5.000 năm tại Ai Cập cổ đại, công dụng làm mát ban đầu, ý nghĩa biểu tượng trong đám cưới Nam Á đến sự giao thoa và tranh cãi văn hoá thời hiện đại.
- Câu 59 (C): Đoạn 3 khẳng định: "a darker henna stain is traditionally interpreted as an omen of profound marital harmony" (màu mực càng đậm thì hôn nhân càng hoà thuận), do đó phát biểu "a lighter stain signifies greater affection" là thông tin sai.
- Câu 64 (A): masquerading as = disguising oneself as (giả mạo, đội lốt một thực thể đáng tin cậy).
- Câu 66 (B): Whaling là thuật ngữ an ninh mạng chỉ hình thức lừa đảo nhắm trực tiếp vào các lãnh đạo cấp cao (CEOs) để lừa bộ phận tài chính chuyển tiền.
- Câu 77 (A): San hô nước sâu dễ bị tổn thương nhất trước hiện tượng axit hoá vì sống ở vùng nước lạnh sâu, nơi vốn dĩ có độ bão hoà ion cacbonat tự nhiên thấp hơn rất nhiều so với nước bề mặt.


C. LISTENING TRANSCRIPTS (KỊCH BẢN PHẦN NGHE)

Section 1 Transcript: AI in Higher Education (Dr. Aris Thorne)

Host: Welcome back to Academic Insights. Today, we are joined by Dr. Aris Thorne, an educational sociologist, to unpack the seismic shift occurring across tertiary institutions worldwide with the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Thorne, what is truly fueling this adoption?
Dr. Thorne: Thank you. When we analyze the empirical data, it isn't predominantly driven by top-down government edicts or Silicon Valley marketing. Rather, the primary catalyst is undeniable student demand for personalized, asynchronous learning pathways. Contemporary students expect immediate, bespoke feedback that adapts to their individual learning curves.
Host: Yet, critics warn that this undermines traditional scholarship.
Dr. Thorne: Traditional assessment paradigms—particularly the standardized essay—are exceedingly vulnerable. Generative models can effortlessly simulate sophisticated synthesis and critical argumentation without the student undergoing genuine cognitive comprehension. What worries me most is what I term 'epistemic passivity'—a condition wherein learners uncritically ingest synthetic outputs, forfeiting their capacity for independent verification. This is compounded by algorithmic confirmation bias.
Host: How should universities respond structurally?
Dr. Thorne: Blanket bans are entirely futile. We need to completely re-engineer our pedagogical frameworks toward process-oriented evaluation, observing the progression of inquiry rather than merely evaluating the final artifact. Furthermore, the digital divide is no longer about access to physical computers; it is shifting toward prompt engineering fluency and ethical AI literacy. Faculty members are feeling intense friction—overwhelmed by the dizzying velocity of software iterations on top of heavy instructional duties.
Host: And what about the human element?
Dr. Thorne: AI ethics cannot be relegated to isolated computer science electives; it must be interwoven into every discipline from day one. Institutions that obstinately resist this paradigm will find themselves marginalized with plummeting enrollments. Ultimately, human educators will never be obsolete—our irreplaceable role lies in cultivating empathy, philosophical dialogue, and moral discernment.

Section 2 Transcript: Biophilic Architecture (Maya Lin-Vance)

Host: Maya, you have earned global acclaim for pioneering what you term 'biophilic structuralism'. Could you demystify this philosophy?
Maya Lin-Vance: Certainly. For too long, 'green architecture' was merely cosmetic—architects simply adorned concrete facades with potted foliage. Biophilic structuralism, conversely, integrates living ecological dynamics directly into the mechanical and structural integrity of the edifice.
Host: You recently championed timber-composite skyscrapers. What resistance did you encounter?
Maya Lin-Vance: Our biggest hurdle was never structural load capacity or timber supply—it was pervasive skepticism from municipal regulatory boards regarding fire resilience. We had to conduct rigorous burn-tests to prove that engineered mass timber chars predictably, forming a protective barrier that often outperforms structural steel under extreme temperatures.
Host: What is your stance on the current corporate enthusiasm for green building certifications?
Maya Lin-Vance: Much of it is insidious greenwashing—superficial marketing badges that distract from massive embodied carbon in foundational concrete and steel. Authentic sustainability hinges on passive thermal regulation: orienting the building to harness prevailing wind currents, optimizing natural day-lighting, and leveraging high-density thermal mass.
Host: Tell us about your signature initiative in Copenhagen.
Maya Lin-Vance: In that complex, we realized a zero-water waste matrix. Every drop of greywater and stormwater is captured and naturally bio-filtered through vertical wetland gardens integrated into the building's central atrium, completely bypassing municipal sewers. For aspiring architects, my advice is straightforward: spend less time obsessing over flashy digital rendering and deeply immerse yourselves in local ecological history and raw material lifecycles.

Xem tất cả