1.

HOME

What kind of accommodation are you living in?

I’m currently living in a rental house with 3 cosy bedrooms, a sitting room and a
kitchen. I moved into this place a couple of years ago. It is quite old and the
design is nothing special but I really love the surroundings.

What do you like about your home?

Well, I adore its wooden floors and spacious balconies. This is because natural
materials always give me a warm, comforting feeling, sort of a nice touch when I
walk or sit on them. Also, it’s worth mentioning that I moved into this house
mainly for the balconies where I can chill out with a cup of coffee and watch
people on the street.

What do you dislike about your homes?

Well, of course I have to say that I’m not so happy with the top floor.
The main reason is that it can get intolerably hot during scorching
summer days despite being air-conditioned. Another point I should
mention is that the room has no windows, which exacerbates its
ventilation issue. Still, it isn’t a big deal coz we don’t use that room very
often.

What kind of accomodation would you like to live

in?
Well, I’ve always dreamt of owning a private house set in a tranquil area like a
suburb or ideally the countryside. It doesn’t have to be a mansion or a villa but
for a nature lover like me, a large garden is definitely a must.

Can you describe your room?

Well, it’s lovely. It’s painted in ivory- white and has a private balcony over-looking
a little garden. Especially, my room can be filled with natural day light thanks to a
large window.

What can you see from your window?

I have to say that I’m so blessed to enjoy fabulous view from my window. The
owner of the opposite house is an architect so he has designed the façade of his
home like a little tropical forest with vine trees and various kinds of exotic flowers.
The view over his garden is simply mind-blowing.
 Would you like to live in a house with beautiful
window view?
Absolutely. What’s better than that? I mean whenever I feel stressed out or get
stuck in life, all I would have to do is just looking out of the window and the
magnificent views will instantly put me at ease.

2. LIVING AREA
Tell me something about your hometown?

Well, it’s just a collection of some little villages surrounded by immense rice
fields and winding rivers. I always feel fortunate to be born and grow up in the
countryside where life was so relaxing and carefree. I guess my laid-back
personality must have something to do with those unforgetable childhood years.
Do you think it’s a good place to grow up?
Absolutely, I have a lot of fond childhood memories. Growing up in the
countryside, I had ample opportunities to play outdoors and stay close to the
nature, which I suppose is essential to children’s development.
Would you like to live in your hometown again in the
future?
Well, I haven’t made any particular plans yet but I’d love to come back to my
hometown and live there for a couple of years. I guess it would be fantastic to be
able to relive those wonderful childhood years and also to break away from
exhausting city life for a while.
Where are you living now?
I’m currently living in a nice and quiet neighbourhood which is extremely rare in
Hanoi’s downtown. Particularly, we have a lake, an open market and a tiny park. I
moved here around 3 years ago. Earlier, I lived in a filthy, bustling area packed
with people and vehicles, which was truly a nightmare.
Are there many shops in your area?
Oh yes, there are hundreds of them, from shopping malls, open market,
mini-supermarkets, convenience stores, gift shops, flower shops, fashion
stores, hair salons to hi-tech gadget stores. All are within easy walking
distance from my home, which I find truly convenient.

Is this area suitable for children to grow up?

Well, to be honest with you this isn’t something I’ve ever considered
but I suppose it might be a perfect place / an unsuitable place to raise
children. This is mainly because, there are (aren’t) a wide range of facilities
 for the little ones, such as childcare centres, kindergartens, playgrounds
and amusement parks.
What do you like about this area?
Well, I’d say that what I love the most here are the people. My
neighbours are super friendly and helpful. I remember on the first day we
moved in, they even helped us unload our stuffs and let us park our
vehicles in front of their houses though we were newcomers. I’ve made
quite a lot of new friends here.
What changes would you like to see in this area?
Of course, this area still has room for improvement. I hope there will be a
playground for local children to enjoy some fun time outdoors. Also, it
would be better if all locals became more conscious of keeping public
spaces tidy. I’ve seen people dumping rubbish on the streets a few
times.

3. STUDY (nếu là học sinh câu hỏi có khác

chút nhưng câu trả lời căn bản như nhau)
Nếu là SINH VIÊN:

Do you work or study?

- I’m a freshman/ sophomore/ junior/ senior at ABC University/ XYZ high school.
(Hoặc I’ve finished my first year / my second year at ABC university) + 1 câu nói về
student life: (I’m still struggling to adapt to new learning styles. Although I’ve had
more autonomy and become more independent, there are so many assignments
and group projects that I find myself overwhelmed from time to time. I guess I
need to work harder on cultivating self- discipline.

- I’ve found life at university pretty amazing / truly fantastic / so vibrant (There is
an array of fascinating clubs (fashion, business, music…clubs) and activities to
keep myself active and engaged, especially volunteer work …) / nếu chán: I’ve
found life at university quite boring. (I guess I might have chosen the wrong
major…)

What's your major?

- My major is business English / business administration / social engineering/
social science… Should everything go well, I’m going to graduate …in another 2, 3
years/ next year…and hopefully, I’ll be able to find a decent job right afterwards.
 Do you like it?
- Yes, I’m quite enthusiastic about it. It has broadened my horizon and fostered my
independent thinking and critical thinking abilities. I have a lot of fun learning how
to…

- I’m not so sure. At first, I was so thrilled, everything was new and
exciting. After a while, however, I’ve become a little bit demotivated.
While … and … are fun to learn, I find some other subjects such
as….and …quite boring/ tough/ demanding/ irrelevant to my future
career.

Why did you choose that major?

- Because I’d like to follow in the footsteps of my mother/ father, a passionate/
devoted teacher/ doctor…He/ she has been an outstanding role model for me
since I was little. I find it extrememly rewarding to be able to help people stay
healthy/ realise their full potential.

- Because I believe it has a bright future. Everyone is talking about …these days
so I guess if I work hard and graduate with a high distinction degree, I can easily
land my dream job.

- Because I’ve always wanted to become an excellent … and make a difference in

the world. Also, I’ve watched a lot of movies about … Being able to… (do ST) and
to…(do ST) sounds fantastic/ super cool.

Is it different from what you had in mind?

- Oh yes. I thought it would be a piece of cake but in fact, it is quite tricky/ tough
to get my head around the subjects. I struggle with V-ing…(= have a hard time
learning how to …) . At university, it is extremely important to learn independently
and read extensively, which I was obviously not used to at high school, but I can
manage that. (manage = handle = deal with)

Will you change it if you have the chance?

- Definitely. If I was able to go back in time, I wouldn’t have chosen it in the first
place. (Reason: It is completely out of sync with my ability/ doesn’t match my
ability. I’ve realized there is a huge gap between my expectation and reality. I’d
love to change it to … because probably, I’ll perform better where my true pasion
lies.

- No. The deeper I dig into this field, the more enthusiastic I get. I’m really looking
forward to finishing my high school/ university education and having an opportunity
to put what I’ve learnt into practice.
NẾU LÀ HỌC SINH (học lớp chọn: I’m specialised in
math, literature…)
- What kinds of subjects do you study?

- What subject do you like best? (favourite subject)

- Do you use technology to study?

- Do you prefer to study in the morning or at night?

4. WORK
Do you work? What do you do? what is your job?

- Well, currently I’m self-employed. I’ve been running a little clothing

boutique for almost 3 years. Our store provides both ready-to-wear and
custom-made clothes for professional women. I’m responsible for
designing and marketing and my sister is in charge of the tailor team
who actually make the clothes.

Why did you choose that job?

- Well, that’s a long story. The primary reason is that my mom used
to be a dedicated tailor and I remember grewing up with pretty fabrics
around the house and constant sound of her sewing machine. On top
of that, fashion has always been my ultimate passion. I love helping
people develop their own style, boost their confidence and
consequently become more successful and happier in life.

What do you like most about your job?

- The best part of my work is getting an opportunity to meet and be friends with
interesting people from all walks of life. Besides, I’ve always wanted to run my
own business and I find working for myself incredibly rewarding.

What do you dislike about your job?

- Well, the only little thing I’m not so happy with my work is that I can’t separate my
professional life with my personal life. I’ve been working for at least 12 hours per
day for several years. I’m in charge of all sorts of things: managing our Facebook
page, dealing with clients’ complaints and recruiting & training staffs for our store.
That’s why I always feel like I have too much on my plate.

Will you continue to do this work in the future?

- Definitely yes. People never stop wanting to look beautiful and unique, so
creative and elegant fashion will forever be in high demand. However, I’ve found
myself sort of getting stuck in a rut lately so I’m thinking of embarking on a side
hustle journey. (a side hustle

= a second job)

PART 1 OLD TOPIC QUY 3 2021 (GIỮ LẠI SANG

QUY 1 2022)
1. APP

What kinds of apps do you often use?

I’m not really into fancy technologies so my favourite apps include mainly
essential stuff like the calendar, email and social media. Additionally, I use photo
and video editing programs on a daily basis as my work requires a constant
stream of creative contents.

What was the first app you used?

Well, it’s been such a long time since I had my first decent mobile phone.
If my memories serve me right, it was probably a texting app. I used to
send a lot of messages when I was a teen and that app was definitely
something I couldn’t live without back then.

What apps have you recently used?

Oh, I’ve been a huge fan of Siri lately. I’ve been talking to it a lot for the past few
months to prepare for this speaking test. This handy app makes an amazing
virtual assistant and an incredible companion.

What kinds of app would you like to use in the

future?
I suppose an app that could comfort and talk to people like a therapist
would be of immense help. You know, people are leading an
increasingly hectic and stressful life and many are struggling with
serious mental issues like depression and anxiety disorders.

2. COLOURS
What is your favourite colour?
Well, I’m a huge fan of pastel colours. These subtle and bright colours
remind me of how beautiful and vibrant our life can be. I always feel at
ease and cheerful when looking at something in light blue, mint or baby
pink. My clothes are all in pastel shades.

Are there any colours you don't like?

Of course. I can’t stand neon colours. They are too irritating to look at, even for
just a few seconds. The one I detest the most is neon green though I do know its
applications are crucial in several areas, especially in making protective clothes.

What colours do your friends like the most?

That’s an interesting question. This isn’t something I usually pay attention to
but I’d say that their preferences do vary significantly. Most of them adore
colours matching their zodiac signs. For instance, those of fire signs are crazy
about red or orange while those of water signs favour anything in pale colours
like white or cream. (*those = people)

Would you like to change the colours of your

room?
Well, my room is painted in cream, my favourite colour so I have no plan to repaint
it. However, I’d love to add a bit of a warmer tone like lemon yellow or light green
to make my little private space more vibrant and exciting.

3. WEATHER
What kinds of weather do you like
the most? What is the weather
like in your hometown? Do you
like it?
Do you prefer dry or wet weather? (cold or hot weather?)

Which season do you like best? /Do you have a

favourite type of weather?
Well, my favourite time of the year is autumn when the weather is bright and
mild. It’s sunny but not as scorching and humid as summer. Most importantly,
it is the season I was born in.

What’s the weather like in your city?

We experience four seasons with a considerable number of sunny days every
year. Spring is cool with frequent drizzle. Summer is hot and humid with sudden
downpours. Autumn is

most pleasant but there are occasional storms. In winter, it is dry and quite cold
but we can expect several sunny days in a row.
 Do you like it?
Yes, it’s quite pleasant all year round in Hanoi. Extreme weather such
as heat waves and storms is very rare. On top of that, I love the
diversity and variety in nature that four seasons offer. For me, life is
worth living only when there is always something different to look
forward to.

Do you like cold or hot weather?

Well, as I mentioned, I love both tropical and temperate climates. Hanoi offers
varied weather patterns throughout 4 seasons and that’s exactly what I seek.
Some of my friends moved to Ho Chi Minh City because there is no chilly winter
in the south, but I’ve never wished to do so.

Do you like it when it’s raining? (Do you like dry

or wet weather?)
Well, I tend to be happier on sunny days because I’m really into outdoor
activities. I do love summer rain, I mean the downpours. They are short
and refreshing. However, when winter or spring comes, it might be
drizzling all day long or even for several days in a row and I’m really tired
of that gloomy, rainy weather.

4. GETTING LOST
Have you ever lost your way?
Yes, I’ve got lost countless times in my life. I always struggle to navigate
my way in unfamiliar places, especially in crowded cities with a maze of
little lanes like Hanoi. However, I’ve realised that getting lost can
sometimes be a blessing as I get the opportunity to explore fascinating
areas by chance.

How can you find your way if you are lost?

Well, first I would ask one or two locals for directions because I find their
instructions always more straightforward to follow than navigation
apps. If I can’t find any, I will try to figure out my way on physical maps
and call my friends for support or resort to Google maps.

Are you good at reading maps?

No, I’ve never been proud of my spatial thinking skills. I always have a
hard time interpreting the overwhelming amount of information
presented by a map. Sometimes, I do know how to navigate my way on
a map, but I still get lost in real life and I have no idea why.

Have you ever helped someone who got lost?

 Of course. I’ve been in their shoes you know. A couple of years ago, I
saw two foreign visitors standing at a traffic light in Hanoi Old Quarter
with a map in their hands. They

looked confused and tired so I guess they might have lost their way. I offered to
guide them to their hotel and they were so thankful for that.

5. CONCENTRATION
When do you need to concentrate?

Well I’d say that concentration is required in almost everything we do but for
me, it is particularly crucial when I’m working or studying. This is mainly
because it can boost my productivity & efficiency. When focusing on what
I’m doing, I might get more things done in less time and avoid making
errors. (Cấu trúc Reason: This is mainly because)

Is it difficult for you to concentrate? (Why?)

Yes, I get distracted easily because there are so many distractions around
us these days. I always find it hard to stay focused on the tasks at hand.
When I get down to work, it always takes me up to 30 minutes or even an
hour to truly get in the zone. (*get down to ST = start to do ST / get in the
zone = to concentrate on ST)

What affects your ability to concentrate/ what distracts you? (Cấu trúc
Besides: chia làm 2 loại)
Well, the main distraction I’m constantly exposed to are external factors,
like TV, smartphones, social media, stuffs like that. Besides, there are
internal factors involving my health or mental state, I mean my mood. For
instance, if I’m too excited about an upcoming event, I also find it hard
to concentrate.
Do you prefer to study/ work in a quiet environment or
in a place with some noise?
I would say that it depends on what kind of noise it is. In general, I find it
easier

to concentrate in a quiet place or a place with some relaxing instrumental music in

the background. I just can’t stand loud noises and crowded places.

Do you (ever) do anything to help you concentrate? (Cấu trúc liệt kê

Another…)
Well, when I’m working on a major project or have a hanging
deadline to meet, I usually block out all possible distractions by
turning off the TV and putting my phone in silent mode. Another
trick is playing some relaxing instrumental music at low volume. It
works like charm for me.

6. PETS (topic dễ các bạn tự trả lời nhé)

What is your favourite animal? (Reason: dog: loyal, warm, always wags
his tail whenever I’m home, follows me everywhere, makes an incredible
companion …)
Have you kept a pet before? (nhớ dùng hoàn thành/ quá khứ: con gì, bao
lâu, vất vả ko)
What kinds of pets are popular in VN? (cấu trúc cho dạng what kind)

Do you prefer to keep your pets indoors or

outdoors?
That’s an interesting one. If possible, I want to set up a little house for them
outdoors, preferably in a garden. I believe pets also deserve their own space and
freedom. Also, this allows me to take care of them and my home better.
Especially when they get ill, I won’t have to stress myself over hygienic issues.

Have you ever had a pet?

I have. Actually, I grew up with cats and dogs around. The one I love
the most is a German shepherd my uncle gave me on my 6th birthday.
My childhood would not have been so wonderful without him. I cried
my heart out the day he was stolen.

What kinds of pets are popular in VN?

I guess the most preferred ones include dogs and cats. I am not sure about
other cities but I do see a lot of people walking their dogs in my neighbourhood
every morning or late afternoon. In the countryside, almost all families have cats
to keep mice away and dogs to guard their houses and befriend their children.

Is there any animal you would like to have as a

pet?
Well, for now, I am unable to keep any pet due to my hectic schedule but I’d
love to have one or two dogs as my future family members.
(hectic = very busy)

What animal(s) would you not like to have as a

pet?
A pig, definitely. I know I’m a little biased but I find it weird to have a pig on the
same bed or couch with me.
7. PARK -
PUBLIC
GARDEN
S Do you
often go
to a park?
Of course, there is a huge park just a few-minute walk from my house.
For a nature lover like me, it is truly a life saver. It is not only the
perfect place to enjoy fresh air but also an excellent hideaway to escape
the city’s hustle and bustle for a short while.

What do you usually do in the park?

Whenever I have time to kill or when I’m overwhelmed with my
workload, I prefer to go to the park in my neighbourhood for a relaxing
stroll or socializing with locals. Sitting under the shade of luxuriant trees
and getting lost in a book also helps calm my restless soul.

Do people in your area like to go to parks? What

do they do there?
It is up to the season, really. In summer, people of all ages flock to the park
every morning and late afternoon to do exercise and get cooled down. In winter,
however, I see very few people there, just some men doing Tai Chi or jogging
and some middle-aged women practicing simple sport dances.

Did you often visit a park when you were a child?

No, I was born and raised in the countryside and there was no park in
my village. However, all families had their own gardens which were vast
and full of fruit trees, flowers and vegetables. I used to play hide and
seek in them, which was the most fascinating part of my childhood.

Do you prefer to play in a park/ public garden or a

private garden?
A private garden of course. As a quiet person, I love spending my precious
leisure time in a private space where I can enjoy ultimate freedom and
tranquility. However, I do love hanging out with my friends and having a
fantastic day in an amusement park.
8. SCIENCE
Do you like science?
When did you start studying science?
Which science subjects are you
interested in? How have you
applied science in your life?
Do you like science? / Which science subjects are you interested in?

To be honest, I’m not really into science. I’ve never paid particular attention to
this field. It seems to me that science is just a subject I had to pass in schools. I do
love science fiction movies though.

When did you start studying science?

Back in secondary school and high school, I remember taking
Biology, Chemistry and Physics. I must admit that they did give me a
hard time. Learning by heart all those formulas and facts was a real
struggle for me. If I had been able to get some hands-on learning, I
believe I would have become more interested in this field.

Did you study science in primary school?

Unfortunately not. Back then, we only focused on Math, Literature and moral
classes. I was envious of some of my friends in private schools who were able
to conduct fantastic experiments during their science classes.

How have you applied science in your life?

Without a doubt, science has countless applications in all aspects of our
life. For example, chemistry gives me insights into what ingredients I
should combine when cooking in order to prevent food allergies or food
poisoning. Additionally, biology has enabled me to sharpen my
gardening skills.

9. SHOES
Do you often buy shoes?

Probably, I get myself a new pair every two years. You know, when it
comes to fashion, I always try to minimize my shopping because I don’t
want to buy a lot and throw them away after using them just once or
twice. I tend to purchase durable high-quality shoes from renowned
brands and use them until they are torn.

Have you bought shoes online?

No, I haven’t. I’m quite a discerning customer. When I’m shopping for
clothes and shoes, I must make sure that they fit me and my style
perfectly. It’s crucial for me to try them on before making a purchase.

How much do you usually spend on shoes?

Well, as I mentioned I’d rather have one pair of fine quality than several
pairs that are poorly made. This doesn’t necessarily mean that I must pay a
fortune for them. My typical budget for a decent pair of shoes ranges
from five hundred to one million dongs.

Which do you prefer? Fashionable shoes or

comfortable shoes?
I’m not a particular fan of keeping up with the trends so I would favour
comfort over fashion. Of course, I always try to reach a balance because
shoes that are comfortable but look weird don’t seem to offer good value
for money. I do care about how they would look on me.

10. HEADPHONES
Do you use headphones & What kind of headphones?
Yes, I spend hours listening to music or watching Youtbe videos every day so
headphones are indispensable for me. I’ve been using the earphones
accompanying my Iphone for a couple of years. I carry them with me wherever I
go.

Do you feel uncomfortable when using

headphones?
Well, to be honest, wearing them for an extended period, like 3 or 4
hours straight can cause little discomfort to my ears. If I have to listen to
a lecture or join an online meeting, I always try to take my earphones off
from time to time or use the speaker when I’m alone.

When do you use headphones?

I tend to wear them when I’m receiving a call or listening to music in public
places such as a park or public transport. This helps block out all noises
from the surroundings and at the same time prevent others from being
disturbed by me.

In what situation you don’t use headphones?

Why?
Well, I never wear them while riding a motorbike or walking on the road. It’s too
dangerous to not pay attention to the surroundings in such cases. I may easily
get into an accident or cause trouble for other vehicles. Also, as I mentioned I
always use the speaker when I’m not surrounded by other people.

11. HANDWRITING
Do you like handwriting
or typing? When do you
prefer to write by hand?
Is your handwriting
easy to read?

Do you think handwriting is important?

Do you like handwriting or typing? (cấu trúc It depends ...)

Well, it depends. For long and formal documents, I will definitely use a
computer because typing is much faster and technology makes it
easier to spot and correct mistakes.
However, when taking notes or brainstorming, I would pick up a pen and a
notebook,

which allows me to be more creative and imaginative.

When do you prefer to write by hand? (cấu trúc liệt kê BESIDES)

Well as I mentioned, I write whenever I need to jot down some ideas. This
helps me concentrate better and thus become more productive. Besides, I
always prepare written cards for my loved ones on special events such as
birthdays or weddings. This is how I express my gratitude to them for always
being there for me.

Is your handwriting easy for others to read or

not? (Cấu trúc HOWEVER: 2 trường hợp đối lập )
Well, I suppose it’s quite legible when I take time to write properly. In case
I have to take notes in a hurry or when I’m writing under pressure,
however, I would fail to write neatly. Perhaps, that’s why I’ve never
achieved exceptional scores at writing exams during high school.

Do you think handwriting is important?

Definitely. It seems to me that a hand-written card is way more
special and meaningful than a printed one. Additionally, writing by hand
proves to be crucial in case people have no access to digital gadgets
like computers, smartphones and printers.
12. SPENDING
TIME WITH
OTHERS Do
you like talking
to other
people?
Well, it depends. When I’m worn out (tired) and need some quality “me time”, I
prefer to stay alone in my own room, doing nothing. However, when I’m back to
normal, I do love socializing, I mean having random conversations or joking with
others.

Do you like spending time with friends?

Absolutely, hanging out with them regularly helps me relieve stress

and maintain a balanced life. Life would be so tedious and gloomy
without friends. They do know how to cheer me up, so whenever I feel
depressed or get stuck in life, I’ll turn to them for a shoulder to cry
on.

Do you prefer to work / study alone or with

others?
I favour the latter option. Although I’m not really a people person or
an excellent team player, I tend to work more productively when there
are other people around me. This is mainly because I do lack
discipline when I’m left to my own devices.

Do you remember a time when you needed to

cooperate with others?
Well, there are countless occasions but off the top of my head, it was my
first teamwork project at university. Our class was divided into 6 groups to
make a presentation about a subject related to culture or something like
that. We argued a lot but finally managed to see eye to eye on all major
points.
 13. WEEKEND (de quy 1) topic dễ các bạn tự trả
lời or xem sách quý 1 nhé
What do people usually do on weekends in VN? (gợi ý idea: leisure
activities / family getaway / family gatherings/ visiting relatives...)
What do you often do on weekends? (hang out with friends/ come back
to my hometown/ devote the two days to my passion/ hobby…)
What did you do last weekend? (nhớ chia thời quá khứ: làm gì, ở
đâu, với ai, cảm thấy thế nào)
What do you plan to do for next weekend? (thời tương lai gần: I’m
going to…+ lí do)

14. MATHS
Do you like studying maths?

Definitely, it’s my favourite subject. Although I detest physics and chemistry, I do

love working with numbers. When I was in high school, I was so passionate about
finding clever ways to solve maths problems that I lost sleep over them from
time to time.
Are you good at maths?
Well, I used to achieve the top grade for this subject from primary school to high
school. When I went to university, however, I found maths in tertiary education
truly daunting. I struggled with it for the first two years but managed to get my
head around it by the third.

How do you apply maths in life? (. figure out how much I need to pay
when I go shopping
or estimate the amount of time I should spend on a certain task at work …)

Did you use a calculator when studying maths?

Well, If I remember correctly, we weren’t allowed to use this handy device at
primary school but it was an essential tool for our academic journey at middle
school and high school. Several equations and formulas were too complicated for
us to handle promtly you know.
 Is it important to study maths?
Absolutely. Maths is a highly practical subject. It can be applied in numerous
aspects of our life. Maths helps children nurture their logical thinking, critical
thinking and problem solving skills, all of which are crucial for their success later
in life. Just take a look at what computer programming has created and we will
realize how crucial maths is.

15. TV PROGRAMS (topic dễ bạn tự mình trả lời dựa

vào từ vựng đầu sách)
What kinds of TV programs do you like? What programs are popular
in Vietnam? (soap operas, talent shows, football games…)

Do you prefer watching them on TV or on a phone? (TV: bigger screen,

more comfortable for my eyes/ phone: slow Internet connection in Vietnam
might make watching TV online an unpleasant experience)

What program did you like the most when you were a
child? (cartoon)
Would you like to participate in a TV show? (No. Although I’m very curious
about how TV programs are produced, I’ve never wished to take part in such
shows because I’m camera- shy. If I was on TV, my friends would try to make fun
of me. Also, I’m afraid I can’t handle too much attention…)
15. CAR TRIPS
Do you like to travel by car?
Well, I’m not a particular fan of cars and only take a car trip when
necessary, mainly to distant destinations. You know, they are the main
culprit of worsening air pollution and traffic congestion in urban areas.
Especially with poor transport infrastructure in a crowded city like Hanoi,
travelling by cars might not be as fast and pleasant as you thought.

Where did you go on your last trip by car?

Well, let me see. My most recent journey was a couple of months ago. I shared
a rental car with my sisters to come back to our hometown for the summer
holiday. Normally I would take a bus or train but due to the ongoing coronavirus
pandemic, I had no choice really.

What is the farthest place you travelled to by car?

The longest car journey I’ve made is from Hanoi to Hue in Central
Vietnam. If my memory serves me right, it was around 10 hours and the
total distance was over 600 km. I still remember how dizzy I got when
reaching our final destination. However, the scenery along the way was
spectacular, particularly the ride along the coast.
Do you like to sit in the front or the back of a car?

Well, It depends. For instance, when I’m tired and need a nap during the
trip, I would opt for a back seat as it seems more comfortable.
However, if I’m energetic and wish to admire the breathtaking views on
both sides of the road, I will insist on taking a front seat.

PART 1 NEW TOPICS QUY 1 2022

1. Emails

Do you often send emails?

- (Yes, I send several emails every single day. As I’m working/

studying remotely, emails have become the main method for me to
stay in touch with my coworkers/ classmates & teachers)

When do you often send emails?

- When I need to send a long message or when I have to attach a

file of homework/ assignments/ a report … sending emails seems more
efficient

Is sending emails popular in Vietnam?

- Well, email is a major communication method in most businesses

and organizations in Vietnam. However, it’s less popular among friends
or family members than messaging apps, which are their favorite
communication tools in their personal life.

Do you think sending emails will become more popular in the future?

- It’s likely that people will send less emails in the future. This is mainly
because cloud storage systems such as Google Drive are becoming
widely-used and people can easily share files with others without having
to send anything.

2. Time management

How do you manage your time in a day?

 - always make a to-do list for the next day, give priority to what matter the
most
- write down all tasks I need to perform & stick to my plan

Is it easy for you to manage your time?

- I have to admit that I still find it hard to manage my time effectively.

- easily get distracted and spend too much screen time

Do you like being busy?

- Well, it depends on what I’m up to. If I’m having a tough time I

would try to bury myself in work so that I could forget about all
trouble in my life

Do you think it’s important to manage time?

- Absolutely. Effective time management enables us to get more

things done in a shorter time. If people fail to manage their time wisely,
they would be unproductive and thus unable to achieve anything
significant. (đặt giả thuyết ngược lại)

3. Dreams

Do you often dream?

- Yes, I dream quite often. Particularly if I spend a lot of screen time

right before going to bed, I tend to have a nightmare afterwards.
However, if I experience something extremely happy during the day, then
I’m likely to have a sweet dream at night.

Do you remember your dreams when you wake up?

- Usually, I don't. My mom said if we spoke out loud during our dream,
we would not remember anything about it the next morning but if we
didn’t then we would be able to recall our dream. This is true for me,
which I find really interesting.

Have you told others about your dreams?

- Yes, I have. When I was little, I would tell my Mom every time I had
a dream. Last week, I shared one of my weirdest recurring dreams with
my friends and they were all cracking up.

Do you like listening to other people telling their dreams?

- Yes, I dearly love storytelling, especially mysterious stories like

our dreams. I’m amazed by the way our minds wander while we’re
sleeping.

Do you think dreams have meanings?

- I would say so. I believe to some extent, dreams are just a reflection
of our real-life experiences and thoughts so they say a lot about our
concerns, worries and aspirations.
 4. Cinema

Do you often go to the cinema?

(....every now and then…..due to my hectic work / study schedule/ ….when there
is a new blockbuster coming out)

Whom do you often go with?

( … hang out with my close friends/ coworkers on the weekend) )

Did you go to the cinema when you were a child?

(nhớ chia thời quá khứ) (...used to …when …/ No I didn’t have the chance to
….I was born and grew up in the countryside where there used to be no theaters)

Do Vietnamese people like watching movies at home or at the cinema?

(more comfortable, …save a bit of money) (câu prefer A or B nhớ dùng được so
sánh)

5. Art

Do you like art?

(...very enthusiastic about it. I’m really into literature and photography. Art provides
me with a meaningful outlet to express my creative side…)

Did you study art at primary school? (nhớ chia thời quá khứ: learned to
draw , cut flowers, paper folding …)
Are there many art galleries in Vietnam?

(yes but mainly private galleries. Their collections mainly consist of oil and lacquer
paintings,
…pricey / costly)

Do you like admiring works of art like paintings or pictures?

(... relieve stress, …stimulate my imagination)

Would you like to take a painting or drawing course?

(I’d love to. Such courses might help sharpen my creative skills and improve my
social life… meet like-minded people…)

6. Taking Photos

Do you like taking photos?

(Yes, I’m really into photography. …relieve stress and retain beautiful or
cheerful/ delightful memories)

When do you often take photos?

(I usually …when … spectacular scenery / Besides, …capture memorable
moments or events such as…and …)

Do you prefer taking selfies or taking photos with others? (nhớ dùng so sánh
hơn)

Do you have any photos with your family? (kể lại 1 lần, dùng đc thời quá khứ)

Would you like to improve your photo taking skills? (Yes, I’d like to. If I
could take amazing pictures like a real photographer, that would be
amazing…)

7. Cooking

& food Do

you like

cooking?

(No… dont have a knack/ a flair for kitchen work. However, …very fond of
watching cooking tutorials on Youtube)

Have you made a cake before?

(thời hoàn thành + quá khứ: Yes I have/ No I haven’t…)

Are there a lot of special foods in Vietnam? (Yes, there …a wide range of
traditional foods for special occasions like Tet Holiday or … Additionally, each
region in Vietnam is well- known for their own local specialties)

Do you often have special meals with your family?

(yes,...have regular family gatherings on our traditional holidays and festivals such
as … Holiday and …Holiday. These special occasions offer us a valuable
opportunity to bond and catch up with others, especially those living far away from
us)

8. Mobilephone

Do you often use a mobile phone/ smartphone?

( Yes, …spend a lot of screen time. …something I can’t live without)

When did you get your first mobile phone?

(If my memories serve me right, probably when I started highschool. I insisted on

having one since all my friends had and my parents said yes. I remember I felt on
cloud nine when they gave it to me)

What do you often do with your mobile phone?

(surf the Internet, connect with friends on social media, listen to music, take
pictures…)

What was the last time you used your mobile phone?
(just this morning, …to see my friends’ updates on FB/ to watch some
Youtube videos for English learning)

Do you use your phone to text people?

(Yes. …mainly use messaging apps such as Messenger or Zalo to text my friends
…because … free… For work, however, I prefer calling so that …can get faster
reply and explain in detail more easily)

9. Gifts

Do you like receiving gifts?

(Absolutely,... always feel over the moon whenever I receive …, especially on my

…)

Do you like giving gifts?

(Yes I do. … show my appreciation and gratitude to those who matter the most to
me)

What was the last time you received

a gift? (chia thời quá khứ: khi nào,

quà gì, vui ko, vì sao) Are you happy

when you get a free gift?

(I’m not sure what you mean by “free gifts ” but I would feel elated whenever I get
something for free. Like when I buy … and get another free of charge)

10. Street markets - Shopping centers

Are there street markets near your home?

(....several …in my neighborhood. …. are always very crowded … only visit

them from time to time.)

Do you prefer street markets or shopping centers? why

(shopping malls…cleaner and cooler; …more convenient coz …offer a wider

range of goods and services)

What was the last time you went to a street market?

(nhớ chia thời quá khứ) (a couple of weeks ago , I went to … to buy a … its
quality was pretty … (good/ bad) . I felt quite …with it)
What do you often buy in shopping centers and in street markets?

(home appliances & decorations/ electronic devices/ clothes / groceries / personal

care products such as…)

11. Mirrors

Do you often use mirrors?

(...from time to time, …when putting on my makeup, washing my face or before

going out )

Do you think mirrors are decorative items? why?

(...can adorn elegant features of a room , reflect light and make a room look
brighter )

Have you bought mirrors ?

No, I haven’t. My dad bought all the mirrors in our home when he built it a
couple of years ago

Would you like to use mirrors to decorate your home in the future?

(câu này cần dùng được would/ will/ might/ may + (not) + động từ … : Well,
I’d put some mirrors in ….and ….They are quite simple to set up but offer
immense benefits, practically and aesthetically)

Do you like looking at yourself in a mirror?

(Yes I do. I always feel more confident when looking at myself in the mirror in my
bathroom. It seems that I look more beautiful in it)

12. Lost items

Have you lost an item before?

(dùng được hoàn thành) (Yes, I’ve lost countless items, including money,
keys, pens, the list could go on and on … Sometimes I have no idea why I lose
them.

Have you found something you lost?

(I have. It was a couple of years ago I lost my wallet on my way home. A kind lady
found it and returned it to me. I was so lucky that time. )

What would you do if you found an item of high value on the street? Would
you take it? (Definitely not. If possible, I would try to contact the owner and give it
back to them. If not, I would hand it to the nearest police station.)

What do you often do when you lose an item?

(First, … look around to find it myself. If I can’t then I will …)

What would you do if you lost a valuable item? (dùng được would) (...try
every possible way to find it. … write a notice of the lost item and stick it in a
prominent public place if allowed. … also post a notice on relevant facebook
groups.)

13. Daily Routines

Do you have any routines?

(Yes, I follow the same morning and bedtime routines almost every single day. I
get up at …, brush my teeth, get dressed and then have a quick breakfast at…)

Do you like to get up early?

(I would say that I’m not really a morning person. If I don't have to go to work
(school), I’d rather try to sleep in a little bit.)

Have your daily routines changed?

(Well, basically they have remained the same, except my sleeping routine. I
used to go to bed late when I was a student but now I've become more of a
morning riser. I’m so happy about that change.)

Do you often do the same things on the weekend?

(I do. Unless I have a special plan, I just stick to my weekend routine. I often hang
out with my friends on Saturday and dedicate Sunday to cleaning, cooking,
shopping and practicing a bit of mindfulness)

14. History

Did you learn history at school?

(Of course, it was a compulsory subject in our middle school and high school. I
remember learning by heart several textbooks dedicated to the history of the
world and our own country.)

Do you like this subject?

(To be honest, I’m not really into history. Probably, it’s due to the way this subject
is taught at school. I was bored to death and I saw no point in memorizing
historical events.)

Do you know much about the history of your country?

(I would say so. Though I wasn’t fond of history at school, I’m a huge fan of
historical documentaries and films. I learned about major wars in Vietnam by
watching them and listening to my dad's accounts of his time serving in the army).

When was the last time you read a book (publication) about history?

Well, I can’t remember exactly. As a visual learner, I’m not so into textbooks. Let
me see, the last one I read was about the Fall of Saigon Vietnam and the
evacuation of American troops in 1975. I came across it in a bookstore a couple of
years ago.

Do you think history is important?

History repeats itself. Human nature hasn’t changed a bit, I believe. We’ve
made the same mistakes over and over. Learning from what happened in the
past, especially wars and conflicts, might help prevent similar catastrophic
events taking place in our modern days.

15. Website

Do you often use websites?

(Yes. They make an indispensable part of my life now as I’m working

remotely. Without them, I would have no place to search for information or
store my files.)

When do you use websites?

(... mainly when I’m working ... need to get in touch with my coworkers or gather
information for a certain project. Sometimes, … surf the Internet just to entertain
myself.)

Which website do you use most often?

(Google of course. I’ve been using it for 15 years. This site enables me to access
a wealth of knowledge and relevant data just with some clicks. It’s definitely
something I can’t live without. )

What was the last time you used a website?

(nhớ chia thời quá khứ) (It was this morning. When I was about to leave home ,
I realized I had no idea how to get to the test center. I immediately went online,
searching for some directions on Google maps)

Is it better to look for information on the Internet or in books?

The Internet: tends to be more updated but might be unreliable, I mean

incorrect Books: written by professionals => more reliable but is likely to

be outdated
 16. Watching sports

Do you like watching sports programs on TV?

(I’m not really a big fan of sports programs. ….only watch them when i have
time to kill or when there is a major football match, especially the final ones)

Do you prefer watching them alone or with others?

(With others of course, the more the merrier. I always feel more excited when
watching a football game with my family. ….can gather together to cheer our
favorite team and discuss about it later, which helps strengthen our bonds

Have you watched a sports game/ match in real life?

(Yes, I have watched several football matches. Back in highschool, there used
to be volleyball and badminton competitions and I really enjoyed watching my
classmates play.

What sports games would you like to watch in real life?

(Besides football, I’d like to watch baseball games in person. I’ve watched them
on TV and I guess it must be fantastic to be able to sit in a stadium watching
them live.

PART 2

(Lưu ý: Nên dùng trải nghiệm của các bạn để

không bị lúng túng với câu hỏi phụ, bài mẫu dưới
chỉ đọc lấy từ vựng, tuyệt đối KHÔNG viết ra rồi
HỌC THUỘC.

Bạn nên chọn nội dung hợp với đề mà dễ nói bằng tiếng Anh trôi
chảy nhất với mình. Bạn nên nghĩ ra 2,3 cái rồi hãy chọn, đừng chọn
cái đầu tiên vì có thể sẽ khó nói trôi chảy.

Thậm chí thay vì nói về 1 cái, bạn có thể nói về nhiều cái: ngày xưa
thì là cái này/ người này, bây giờ thì lại là cái khác, người khác, thậm
chí là tương lai có thể là 1 cái khác nữa để dùng được nhiều THỜI
Nên BÁM SÁT CUE CARD để nói được nhiều mảng ngôn ngữ nhất và
tạo bố cục mạch lạc cho bài nói để điểm CC cao. Bạn cũng nên dùng
thạo các cụm dẫn vào từng Cue trong part 2 như:

WHAT it was/ WHO he/she is?

I guess I should start by telling you What it was …/ Who that person is/

WHEN it was/ HOW you know him/ her?

If I remember correctly hoặc If my memories serve me right, it was (3) years ago ..

WHY …?

The primary reason why I …. Another reason is that …

HOW you feel/ felt

I feel/ felt… / I hope / I wish ….

*** ĐẶC BIỆT LƯU Ý KHI GỘP ĐỀ

Các bạn học theo cách gộp đề cần chỉnh sửa ngôn ngữ cho phù hợp
với mỗi topic kẻo bị lạc đề đó nhé.

TIP: Hình dung trong đầu các ý chính giúp bạn nói tốt hơn, trôi chảy
hơn sau khi ghi ra giấy: đầu tiên mình sẽ nói gì, sau đó mình sẽ tả
gì… kết luận rút ra bài học gì…

Với những đề kể về sự việc quá khứ bạn nên mở đầu = Well this topic
reminded me of a time S + V … (dùng câu ghép với đại từ quan hệ that lược bỏ) ;
và nhớ dùng nhiều thời quá khứ
 Với những đề mô tả 1 người/ vật, bạn có thể bắt đầu bằng: Right then, I guess I
should start by telling you what the item/ event … is/ was hoặc : When I saw the
topic, the first person/ The first thing that sprang to mind/ came to mind is …
Với những đề tả người / vật / việc bạn MUỐN gặp/ làm: …YOU WOULD LIKE …,
bạn có thể mở bài bằng câu diều kiện: If I could choose any …, I would propably
opt for …
NHỮNG CẤU TRÚC CÂU BẠN CÓ THỂ DÙNG CHO MỌI TOPIC PART 2:
- I’ve always wanted to (nói về 1 ước nguyện của mình là luôn muốn
được trở thành 1 người như thế nào đó hoặc làm được việc gì đó: I’ve
always wanted to become a great teacher. / I’ve always wanted to master
public speaking skills/ …
- I’ve been a big fan of SB/ ST for many years
- I had never been / done ST before so I was super excited (đề về event
trong quá khứ)
- I first knew him/ her when I was studying in my primary/ high school.
- I first got interested in ST when I was studying in…hoặc Around that time, I
was studying in…
- I used to… (dùng với các đề là thời quá khứ, thường làm gì đó trong quá
khứ)
- If I was able to … I would …( câu điều kiện loại 2 dùng với đề có you
would like to …)
- I don’t think I will ever forget + cái gì đó … (dùng kết luận đề về người/
vật/ trải nghiệm có ý nghĩa với mình)

CHUẨN BỊ TRƯỚC KHI NÓI PART 2 (1 phút)

Sau khi đọc kĩ topic, xác định keyword topic và các thời dựa trên cue card, bạn
hãy huy động từ vựng hay cho topic đó và làm dàn ý bài nói như ví dụ dưới đây:

Đề bài (Cue Card): Describe your favourite piece

of clothing
What is it When you got it Why you like it

Bước 1: Đọc kĩ đề bài 2 lần để đảm bảo

hiểu đúng đề và CHIA ĐÚNG THỜI Bước
2: Lên ý tưởng (brainstorming ideas) trả
lời cho các cue trong đề

- What is it: A white blouse with floral embroidery details on its collars

- When you got it: bought on sales, a couple of years ago

- Why you like it: easy to mix and match, boost my confidence

Bước 3: Huy động từ vựng (tính từ, trạng từ, cụm

động từ hay, IDIOM…cho topic)
- When? One day I went to the shopping mall in my neighborhood,… >
This blouse caught my eyes > Looked chic, adorable > tried it on => fit
me like a glove (fit me perfectly) => decided to buy it without a second
thought

- Why? A real bargain => machine washable , non-wrinkable, goes well

with other items, look

stylish
- Feel confident & comfortable wearing it, neither too formal, nor too
casual. … No need to waste time thinking how to mix and match a
perfect outfit every morning.

* Sau khi viết ideas ra giấy xong bạn nên xem lại toàn bộ và hình dung
sẵn trong đầu khung bài nói để tránh phải nhìn giấy khi trình bày. Việc
hình dung này cũng giúp bạn nói trôi chảy hơn, thêm nữa 1 số giám khảo
sẽ thu giấy sau khi hết 1 phút.
PART 2 OLD TOPICS QUÝ 3 2021 (GIỮ LẠI SANG QUY 1 – 2022)
1. AN ACTIVITY YOU USUALLY DO THAT WASTE YOUR TIME

2. AN ITEM YOU SPENT MORE THAN YOU PLANNED

3. A PERSON AT PRIMARY SCHOOL WHO IMPRESSED YOU

4. A TIME YOU WAITED FOR ST SPECIAL

5. A HABIT OF YOUR FRIEND YOU’D LIKE TO DEVELOP

6. A FOREIGN PERSON YOU LIKE

 7. A DEFFICULT DECISION YOU MADE

8. A TRIP BY CAR/BIKE/MOTORBIKE YOU WANT TO MAKE

9. A FAMOUS SPORTPERSON

10. A CREATIVE PERSON WHOSE WORK YOU ADMIRE

11. A GOOD SERVICE YOU RECEIVED

12. A PLACE YOU VISITED ON HOLIDAY

13. A BUSINESSPERSON

14. A TIME YOU WERE FRIENDLY TO SOMEONE YOU DON’T LIKE

15. A PERSON SOLVED A PROBLEM SMARTLY

16. AN INTERESTING BOOK YOU’VE READ

17. A CAFÉ YOU LIKE

18. A TIME GOT UP EARLY

19. A TIME YOU FELT PROUD OF SOMEONE IN YOUR FAMILY

20. A DIFFICULT SKILL YOU LEARNT

21. A TIME YOU MOVED TO A NEW HOME/ SCHOOL

22. A TIME YOU DID SOMETHING DIFFICULT & SUCCEEDED

23. SOMETHING YOU’RE INTERESTED TO LEARN

24. A TIME YOU GAVE ADVICE TO SOMEONE

25. A FAMOUS PERSON

PART 2 NEW TOPICS QUÝ 1 2022

*Nếu bí ideas bạn cứ nói nhiều cái / nhiều người thay vì chỉ 1 cái/ 1 người
miễn là vẫn đúng topic

1. A toy you liked when you were a child (đề quý cũ)

2. A person you only met once and want to know more about (1
người giỏi tiếng Anh gặp ở 1 free English conversation workshop)
3. An ambition you haven’t achieved (run a small business, gộp A
decision quý trước)

4. Something you can’t live without (not phone/ laptop) (gộp đề

home equipment quý truoc)

5. A time you repaired a broken item in your home (gộp home

equipment quý trước)
6. Something you received without having to pay for it (a product,
service) (a free English conversation workshop by a renowned
language center)

7. A cake you received on a special occasion (birthday party, a

special cake made by a close friend)

8. An interesting song (Heal the world Michael Jackson, trên mạng

rất nhiều info về bài này nhé)

9. A time you successfully organized a happy event (a birthday

party for bạn thân nhất)

10. A discussion/ conversation that you found

interesting (gộp English conversation workshop)

11. A person you spend a lot of time with (đứa bạn thân nhất, giỏi
tiếng Anh, học tiếng Anh cùng nó)

12. An ideal house you’d like to live in (đề quý cũ, a cottage with a
large garden)

13. A skill an old people taught you (gardening, cooking)

14. A place in the countryside you visited (a village, search làng

cổ Đường Lâm hoặc về quê bạn thân…)

15. Something you did to learn a language (tham gia English

Conversation workshops/ shadowing…)

16. Describe a person whose work is useful to society (một thầy cô

dạy tiếng Anh giỏi, hoặc gộp business person quý trước)

17. Describe a gift you’d like to buy for a friend. (gộp A Cake/
hoặc A book quý trước)

18. A story someone told you (gộp đề lesson)

19. A rule or regulation you don't like (the dress code at school/ work)

20. An interesting city (gộp đề city you visited quý trc, thời hiện tại)

21. A lesson you remember well (Gộp A story hoặc Bài giảng của 1
thầy ở 1 English Conversation Workshop khiến bạn thay đổi cách
học tiếng Anh và tiến bộ)

22. A person you follow on social media (1 thầy / cô / bạn siêu tiếng
Anh)

23. An item of clothing that someone gave you (áo cũ chị cho)

24. A long walk you took (gộp a city you visited: dạo quanh city)

25. A new place you visited (gộp a city you visited)

PART 2 SAMPLES
PART 2 – OLD TOPICS TỪ QUÝ 3 2021

Các bạn nên cẩn thận khi gộp đề kẻo lạc đề đó nhen, nhớ đọc kĩ đề
giám khảo đưa và nói bám sát vào gợi ý (cue) của đề là tốt nhất, thà
nói 1 phút mà đúng yêu cầu còn hơn nói 2 phút lan man.

1. AN ACTIVITY YOU USUALLY DO THAT WASTES YOUR TIME

What it is

When you often do

Why you think it’s a waste of time

Will you continue to do it when you are aware it’s a waste of time?

P3 TIME MANAGEMENT (Sample Part 3 ở cuối, phần câu hỏi này cho
các bạn tự thực hành)

How can people balance life and work? What usually makes people
feel pressured?

Do you think young people or old people are better at managing time?
Why do young people waste more time?

What kinds of activities do you consider a waste of time?

Sample: Well, this topic reminds me of a part of my morning routine

that I’ve now realized is completely frivolous. Every morning, I often
stay in bed and spend nearly an hour surfing the Internet or browsing
social media.

Actually, this has never been included in my daily plans and I have no
idea how I’ve got into this habit. Initially, I just wanted to check for
updates from my close friends but these kinds of programs do know
how to keep users staying on their sites as long as possible. All the
so- called relevant or trendy contents are also featured in my newsfeed
and I just mindlessly scroll through them all, one by one. It is when I
randomly glance at the clock that I realize almost an hour has passed.

This habit is without a doubt a fruitless effort. Some hilarious videos

on Tiktok might bring me joy but this kind of pleasure tends to be
short-lived. The moment I stop watching, it will just vanish into thin air.
Not to mention, scrolling aimlessly through these sites seems to be an
unhealthy way to start a new day since I’m exposed to all kinds of
negative news.

Perhaps, this is the reason why I’ve felt distressed and anxious more
often recently.

It’s high time for me to do something about it. I will delete all of these
apps and try to establish a more beneficial morning routine. Sure, I
know old habits die hard but I’m determined to make a difference to my
lifestyle now.
2. AN ITEM YOU SPENT MORE THAN YOU PLANNED (gộp đề home
equipment quy 2)

What it is

How much you spent on it Why you bought it

How you felt

(Khi gộp đề các bạn lưu ý sửa intro, thời (nếu cần) và thêm chi tiết là
dự định tiêu bao nhiêu: This topic reminded me of a time I overspent
on a …. a couple of years ago. Initially, my budget for it was…only.
However, when I went to a nearby mall searching for a new …, I was
captivated by this model. … (kể ra những features tuyệt vời của sản
phẩm) => decided to buy it despite going over my budget => Overall,
I’m delighted with this item… )

Well, this topic reminded me of a time I overspent on a Japanese rice

cooker a couple of years ago. Initially, my budget for it was 1 million
dongs only but I ended up spending 5 times more.

As my old cooker broke down, I went to a nearby mall searching for a

replacement. I was captivated by this model at first sight. It looks
completely different from those made in Vietnam. Its cooking bowl is
super heavy with a thick bottom. I had no idea what kind of metal it’s
made of but it seems durable. I was startled when glancing at its price
tag: five

million dongs. I could buy 5 Vietnamese rice cookers for that amount.
Still, I decided to take it despite going over my budget.

I'm glad I made that decision. This upscale cooker is well worth the
money. Rice cooked by it is way more fluffy and tasty than what my old
ones offered. Besides, it has a monitor screen which allows me to
choose various cooking options rather than just a single button as
seen in usual rice cookers. On top of that, it is accompanied by a
separate tray for steaming sticky rice, a critical festive food in Vietnam.
This is extremely convenient and economical since I don’t need to
squander my hard-earned money on another steamer.

Overall, this handy rice cooker is absolutely something I can’t live

without. It has made my life so much easier and more pleasant. I will
definitely choose the same model again without a second thought.

P3 SHOPPING- MONEY
Do you often overspend?

What do young people spend most of their money on?

Do you think people are buying too much? Why do people buy more
than they need? What are the effects of this trend?

Do you think it is important to save money?

3. A PERSON AT PRIMARY SCHOOL WHO IMPRESSED YOU

Who he/ she is

How you knew them

Why he/she impressed you How you felt about her/him P3 PEOPLE –
CHILDHOOD

Why do people often miss their childhood? Do you think kids are
happier than adults?

Do you think people often stay in touch with their childhood friends?
What kinds of primary school teachers do you think children like?

Is it important to have beautiful childhood memories?

Sample part 2:

Well, besides my parents, another person who has significant

influence on me is my first teacher from primary school. She is my
ultimate role model and I’ve learned a lot from her.

My first impression of her was that she was super friendly and gentle.
There was something special about her radiant smile which looked so
warm, cheerful and encouraging. Unlike other teachers who appeared
full of their self-importance and kept nagging us all the time, she was
extremely caring and patient. I love the way she treated us like sons
and daughters and even went an extra mile to help those falling behind
with their schoolwork. I remember one day I had a severe
stomachache due to some issues with my appendix. She immediately
took me to the hospital and looked after me until my parents arrived.

Another thing I admire about her is the enormous amount of passion

she put into her work. Her teaching was so motivational and intriguing
that we could never want to miss her class. She didn’t stick to the old
boring textbooks and rigid learning methods but prepared her own
lesson plans and materials. She used to draw captivating pictures and
craft cute little things to illustrate her lessons. Through fascinating
stories she told, we were able to obtain not only language skills but
also valuable lessons for life such as hard work, compassion, and
perseverance.

She has always been a brilliant role model for many of us. Most
importantly, she has shown us it is essential to pour all our heart into
whatever we are doing, no matter how big or small it is. At the end of
the day, it’s love and passion for the work that counts. (*count = be
important)

IDIOMS: pour all our heart into / At the end of the day

4. A TIME YOU WAITED FOR ST SPECIAL

What you waited for, And When Why it was specialHow you felt P3
WAITING - PATIENCE

When do people often need to wait?

What are the impacts of waiting on society?

Who do you think are more patient, children or adults?

Do you think people are now more patient than they were in the past?

Sample P2: gộp đề A plan / sea activity quý trước hoặc A trip you’d
like to go quý này: được ba mẹ hứa hè này cho đi du lịch lặn biển Nha
Trang/ Phú Quốc, nhưng dịch covid nên chờ mãi không được đi…

Well, this topic reminds me of how I eagerly waited for our family
vacation last summer. Last year, I achieved excellent performance at
school, so my parents promised that we would take a trip to Nha Trang
as a reward for my exceptional effort.

The best part of the tour was that I would be able to dive into the
ocean. You know, I’ve been a massive fan of marine life for many
years. It must be fantastic to be able to swim leisurely among sea
creatures and watch stunning coral reefs. I remember when I was a
kid, I was obsessed with mermaid fairy tales and science-fiction
movies about the ocean, especially an Australian TV series called
“Ocean Girl“. I was so captivated by the series that I decided to add
scuba diving to my bucket list. I had been asking my parents to take
me on a holiday to a coastal city for ages.
That’s why I was really looking forward to the trip. I was counting the
days until I could see coral reefs and colorful fishes swimming in real
life. However, that day never came. Due to social distancing and
lockdown policies for Covid prevention, we haven’t been able to enjoy
the holiday. I’ve become tired of waiting and so have my parents.
We’ve never mentioned any words about it for months but I still hope
that next year I’ll be able to fulfil my lifetime dream.

. A HABIT OF YOUR FRIEND YOU’D LIKE TO DEVELOP

Who your friend is What habit it is

How you noticed this habit

Why you want to adopt this habit P3 HABIT

What kinds of habits should children have? What kinds of habits

should children avoid?

How can parents teach their children good habits?

Do you think people change their habits as they get older?

Sample P2:

Well, I’m not a creature of habit but I do have a morning routine I’d like
to switch into what my friend does. While he starts his new day with
practicing yoga or cycling, I stay in bed browsing social media until
8.am every single day. I wish I could nurture a healthy morning habit
like that of my friend.

Before the Covid-19 outbreak, he used to cycle around the lake in my

neighborhood, which is immense and quite scenic. However, since the
pandemic hit and we had to comply with social distancing and
lockdown rules, he has switched to practicing meditation or
mindfulness. These types of recreational activities make him well-
prepared for his new day no matter how tough it might be. Perhaps,
this invigorating lifestyle has enabled him to lead a fulfilling life
without becoming burnt out (exhausted). Sure, he’s a high achiever but
I’ve never seen him in low spirits. He always looks cheerful and
energetic with a ready smile on his face.

I, on the other hand, always look pale and exhausted. Especially during
this weird period of isolation, I’ve been trapped in a sedentary lifestyle.
I tend to waste a whole day checking social media updates, surfing the
Internet, playing video games and watching TV. I’ve never thought one
day I would become a couch potato but I am now. It’s high time for me
to face the reality and take concrete actions. I know breaking a bad
habit is quite a big deal but I will work on it little by little. Perhaps, I
should start by exercising for 5 minutes tomorrow’s morning.
6. A FOREIGN PERSON YOU LIKE (gộp A singer/ An athlete hoặc
businessman nếu là người nước ngoài)

Who he/she is

How you knew him/her

Why you are interested in them P3 FOREIGN PEOPLE

Do you have any foreign friends?

Do you think having foreign friends is a good way to learn about other
countries? Do you think it’s important to learn about the culture of a
country before visiting it? Do people in Vietnam like to work in an
international company?

What abilities are required for working in international companies?

7. A DIFFICULT DECISION YOU MADE (chọn trường, chọn / đổi

nghề, có thể gộp đề chuyển nhà, chuyển trường)

What it is

When you made it

How long it took you to make the decision Why it was hard to make

P3 DECISION MAKING

What kinds of decisions do people usually make in their daily life?

What should people do when making a hard decision?

Do you think it is easier to make a decision by yourself or by

discussing it with others? Why do you think many young people don’t
like to follow their parents’ advice?

What should people do to make better decisions?

Sample P2:

Well, this topic reminded me of my toughest career decision a couple

of years ago, which has changed my life altogether.

I was working for a travel company at that time but I was getting stuck.
The longer I was in it, the less motivated I became. There were always
problems arising out of tour programs and they all needed immediate
attention. I felt exhausted all the time and dreaded going to work every
morning. The idea of quitting the job crossed my mind from time to
time but I was so scared. I hadn’t come up with any specific plans yet.
What should I do next, should I look for another job or should I start
my own business which I had been contemplating for years? And what
if I failed, how could I support myself?
On top of that, my dad had just gone through a critical surgery so my
family’s financial situation didn’t look favourable. Perhaps, I should
stay at my current job and wait until things improve. However, after
struggling with the dilemma for nearly one month, I decided to take the
more challenging route. Every business involves a certain degree of
risk and I must cope with that. So I started to sell clothes online as a
side hustle, which required little investment and less effort than
opening a physical store. This also allowed me to test the water while
keeping my main job.

I was happy with that decision because eventually I’ve gathered

enough courage to step out of my comfort zone and rise to the
challenge.

8. A TRIP BY CAR/BIKE/MOTORBIKE YOU WANT TO MAKE (gộp đề

Place you visited, các bạn ko ở Hà Nội có thể gộp Old Quarter)

Who would you like to go with Where & when you want to go Why you
want to go by bike/ car… P3 TRANSPORT

What types of vehicles are popular in VN? How have means of

transport changed in VN?

Are there any differences in the transport systems of rural and urban
areas in VN? What are the advantages and disadvantages of private
transport?

Do you think people should change the way they travel to protect the
environment?

Sample P2:

Well, I’m a huge fan of cycling and I’ve been contemplating a bicycle
tour with my close friends around Hoi An old town in Central Vietnam
for years. Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, I haven’t been able to fulfill
that dream but I’ll definitely take the trip when things go back to
normal.

I’ve heard a lot of favourable reviews about Hoi An from previous

visitors and it has been on my bucket list for a long time. This
UNESCO Heritage Site is truly a treasure of the region. It has
something for everyone: interesting history, unique architecture,
amazing food and picturesque landscape, the perfect combination I
have always been looking for in a destination.

The main reason why I’d like to get around the town by bicycle is that
this is an ancient town. Cars and motorbikes are banned from its major
streets for many hours a day, especially at night when the town looks
most spectacular. Cycling on streets filled
with endless rows of sparkling lanterns must be fantastic. Also, this
means of transport enables me to reduce my carbon footprints and
mitigate the detrimental impacts of my travel.

Above all, I could enjoy a ride to surrounding villages to see luxuriant

gardens, rice paddies and buffaloes. After struggling with the hustle
and bustle of city life for years, this relaxing trip will help me
rejuvenate and rediscover myself. I’m eagerly looking forward to it.

IDIOMS: have no idea / go back in time / window shopping / took my

breath away / hustle and bustle / over and over again

9. A SPORTSPERSON WHO PERFORMED WELL AT EVENT (dựa

vào template của A famous person)

Who he/ she is

How you knew him/her What they achieved Why you like her/him P3
SPORT

What kinds of sports do Vietnamese people like? What qualities

should an athlete have?

Do you think there are many famous athletes in Vietnam? In which

fields & Why? What can people do to become a sports superstar/ a top
athlete?

Sample P2:

Well, the first person that sprang to mind when I saw the word
“sportsperson” is Juzuru Hanyo, a figure skater and a sports legend in
Japan. He has won the gold medal at the Summer Olympic Games held
in South Korea in 2018 and is also a two-time World champion. Having
broken world records countless times, Hanyo is regarded as one of the
greatest male figure skaters of all time. Say his name in Japan and
you’ll have a hard time finding someone who doesn’t know him. He is
treated like a God by millions of fans across the country.

I admire talented people like him who has worked days and night to
reach where they are now. Especially he has successfully built a
glamorous career at a very young age.

After binge watching Hanyo’s captivating performances online, I could

see why he has earned his status as an epitome of figure skating. His
movements are graceful, powerful and charismatic at the same time.
Watching him performing passionately on skating rings is quite a
surreal experience for me.

Above all, his personality is just as amazing as his talents. By the way
he answered his interviews, I can say for sure that he is an amazing
guy. Despite his enormous accomplishments, he seems very humble
and down to earth. He has raised funds and donated his rewards to the
victims of several earthquakes and tsunami in Japan.
 I always look up to people like him, those who can pour all their heart
into what they do and take it to a whole new level. I long for an
opportunity to meet him in real life.

IDIOMS: have a hard time / be down to earth / took ST to a new level/

pour SO’s heart into…

10. A CREATIVE PERSON WHOSE WORK YOU ADMIRE (gộp A

singer quy 2, phải là ca sĩ tự viết nhạc cho mình)

Who he/she is How you knew What they does Why you like them P3
CREATIVITY

Do you think you are a creative person? Do you think creativity is

important?

How can children develop their creative abilities? What kinds of jobs
require creative skills?

Sample P2: Well, the first person that sprang to mind when I heard the
words “creative person” is a legendary rock singer and songwriter in
Japan. He has sold 40 million records

and hundreds of thousands of people sing his songs on a daily basis.

Say his name in Japan and you’ll have a hard time finding someone
who doesn’t know him. He is treated like a God by millions of fans
across the country.

I admire talented people who have worked days and nights to reach
where they are now. After binge watching Hyde’s concerts online, I
could see why he has earned his status as one of Japanese top artists.
His voice is pure magic, so unique and so powerful. His music is full of
passion and completely different from typical Japanese music. Most of
his songs quickly became hit after being released.

Also, his personality is just as amazing as his music. By the way he

answered interviews, I can say he is an amazing guy, very laid-back
and down to earth. He revealed that when he was a child, he would like
to become a designer but he was colour blind. Then he took

up the guitar and discovered his love for music. He realized he may not
be able to draw with colours but through music, he can also create
fascinating images in people’s minds.

I always look up to people like him, those who can pour all their heart
into what they do and take it to a whole new level.

IDIOMS: be dying to/ in person / have a hard time / be down to earth /

took ST to a new level/ pour SO’s heart into…

11. A GOOD SERVICE YOU RECEIVED (gộp A place you visited / A

café)

What the service was

When you get it & with whom? Why you liked it

P3 SERVICE

Do you think good service is important? What makes good customer

service?

What qualities should service staff have?

Do you think customer service in VN is now better than it used to be?

What kinds of businesses have good service in VN?

How can businesses in VN improve their customer service?

Well, this topic reminded me of an excellent service I experienced a

couple of months ago. It was a Sunday morning and I was hanging out
with my buddies in Hanoi Old Quarter. We decided to try out a coffee
shop that is renowned for its signature egg coffee.

The café is housed on the second storey of a gorgeous colonial

building hidden away from the main street, making it a perfect venue
for those seeking a tranquil place. So, our first impression of the café
was great. My friends all ordered egg coffee and urged me to give it a
try. But I doubted the weird combination of egg and coffee so I went
for my favorite latte and a Vietnamese sandwich.

However, when the waiter brought us the drinks, they were all egg
coffee. I called the shop manager, not to make a fuss but just to let him
know what had gone wrong with our orders. He immediately
apologized to us and asked his employee to do the same. The waiter
had made a mistake when taking our orders. So they promised us that
such things would never happen again. They brought me my latte and
even offered us three ice-cream servings for free.

I was deeply impressed with them because that kind of service is

uncommon in my city where shop owners usually get away with their
mistakes or blame them on the circumstances. This little café, on the
other hand, puts their customers first and takes full responsibilities for
what they’re doing. Overall, I was delighted with their service.

12. A PLACE YOU VISITED ON VACATION/ HOLIDAY

Where it is

When you visited What you did How you felt

P3 HOLIDAY DESTINATION

What are some popular attractions in your country?

Do young and old people prefer to go to different destinations on their

holidays? How do people learn about the destinations they want to
visit?
Is it important to make travel plans in advance?

The most captivating city I’ve been to is Hoi An, a little ancient town
located just a half-hour drive south of Da Nang, the gate to Central
Vietnam. I had heard a lot of favourable reviews about Hoi An but I had
no idea how much I would love it here.

This UNESCO Heritage Site is truly a treasure of the region. It has

something for everyone: interesting history, unique architecture,
amazing food and picturesque landscape.

Long ago, Hoi An used to be a major international trading port in Asia

and that’s why the old town has a fusion of Asian architectural styles. I
felt like going back in time while strolling around its historical streets.

Hoi An looked particularly amazing when the sun set and streets were
lighted up

with endless rows of candle-lit lanterns, turning the old town into a
magic world. I loved sitting at a riverfront café savouring local
signature dishes and watching boats pass by.

Additionally, there is a myriad of other attractions around the main

town. I rented a bicycle and rode to surrounding villages and the local
beach which truly took my breath away. It was fascinating to see
luxuriant gardens, rice paddies and buffaloes after I have lived in cities
for so long. Life here seems very relaxed with no hustle and bustle. All
in all, I had a fantastic holiday in Hoi An. The town is far better than I
expected and is definitely worth returning to over and over again.

IDIOMS: have no idea / go back in time / window shopping / took my

breath away / hustle and bustle / over and over again

13. A BUSINESSPERSON (gộp a large local company quý 2)

Who/ How you knew/ What they do/ Why you admire P3 – BUSINESS

If you had the chance of running your own business, what would it be?
Why do people want to run their own business?

What qualities should business owners have?

What factors are important to the success of a business?

I’d like to tell you about the chairman of a travel company I worked for
a couple of years ago. He is truly a self-made billionaire, a visionary
entrepreneur and a great leader. He has built his extensive business
from scratch and that’s why people look up to him.

What I admire the most about this distinguished chairman is the way
he treats his employees. Although he owns a thriving corporation, he’s
never appeared to be full of his self-importance. In contrast, he is
super friendly and down to earth. He kept telling us how our
contributions could make a difference and tried to make us smile even
in toughest situations. He prefers to lead by example and always
expects us to pour our heart into the tasks at hand.
I remember taking part in a marketing project which he was in charge
of right after I landed the job. The chairman provided our team with the
big picture, emphasized what we should strive to achieve and let us
figure out how to reach them on our own. Although he wasn’t my
direct manager, I’ve learnt a lot from him. His motto is “Think big. Do
smart!”, which always reminds me to think out of the box and take
initiatives, not only at work but also in my personal life. He has exerted
a tremendous influence on all his employees, including me and I hope
to become a shrewd and passionate leader like him one day.

14. A TIME YOU WERE FRIENDLY TO SOMEONE YOU DON’T LIKE

(gộp topic: friends argued quý 2 hoặc A time you helped/ shared ST
with a friend)

Vì làm chung nhóm teamwork nên phải be kind:

When and where it happened Why you don’t like him/her Why you were
friendly to them P3 FRIENDLY

What kinds of people are usually friendly?

Why are people friendly with those they don’t like?

Do you think people now are friendlier than they were in the past? Why
are some people always friendly to others?

Sample P2: This topic reminds me of a time I lent an annoying friend a

helping hand. It was a group assignment for our Marketing course in
the last semester. Our class was divided into 10 teams to make
presentations on the “International Marketing Strategy” module. Each
group was assigned with a case study, a country, and ours was
Columbia.

It was tough for me, really. The country was completely unfamiliar,
preparation time was short and on top of that, one of the team member
was the one I hated the most in my class. I rarely hanged out with her
because she was so self-conceited, always acting superior to others.
However, since we only had 5 days left, I backed down and tried to
create an amicable atmosphere during our group discussions by
allowing her to select the easier tasks and I would take care of the rest,
which were obviously tougher. I even shared with her valuable books
and articles I found.

Eventually, the big day came; it was time to shine and we did. Our
group was awarded the most outstanding presentation by both our
lecturer and other classmates. I was so proud of what I did. I’ve
realized that it’s crucial to leave our ego at home when working in
teams.

IDIOMS: lend someone a helping hand.

 15. A PERSON SOLVED A PROBLEM SMARTLY (gộp đề Teamwork
hay a Puzzle, hoặc gộp đề Not allowed to use your phone: a member of
the IT team came up with a brilliant solution to the tricky issue…)

Who he/ she is

What the problem was What he/ she did

Why you think he was smart P3 – SMART

Do you think people are born smart or they learn to become smart?
How can children develop their intelligence?

Why are some people well-rounded while others are good at only one
thing? Do you think smart people are happier?

Well, the first person that springs to mind whenever I see the word
“smart” is my closest friend. A couple of months ago, he and I entered
a little competition just to kill time and have fun. We played Rubik’s
cube, a colour-matching puzzle game to see who was able to complete
it faster… He finished it in half a minute while I was still struggling with
one side.

(có thể kể thêm về độ intelligence của bạn nhu sau: )

I wasn’t surprised at the result as my friend has displayed his

impeccable intellectual abilities since he was little. He would rank at
the top of every class he attended and he was always studying in a
gifted school. He could get his head around the most challenging
topics in no time while his peers struggled to comprehend. He won the
gold medal of the distinguished Vietnam Maths Olympiad Competition
twice and was accepted into Hanoi Medical University without having
to take the entrance exam. He was always an exceptional student. He
can shine in whatever he does.

I always look up to him as my role model although I’ve never been able
to really keep up with him. Having an intelligent friend around can be a
bit stressful sometimes but overall, our friendship is incredibly
rewarding and precious to me.

16. AN INTERESTING BOOK

What it is When you read Why you like it

P3- BOOK - READING

What kinds of books are popular in Vietnam?

Do you think people now read more than they did in the past? Who do
you think read more often? young people or old people? Do people
prefer reading a book or a film based on that book?

Do you think children who read a lot will be more successful?

Well, this topic reminded me of a special gift I received from my best
friend who is now residing in England. It was an utter surprise since I
thought she had forgotten it because she didn’t once mention it during
our conversation the previous night. What inside the

box intrigued me even more. It was a book called “How to win friends
and influence people” by Dale Carnegie, one of the most classic books
of all time and has been my bible ever since.

The book was first published about 60 years ago but still holds the
same value until today. It is considered by many as one of the most
influential self-help books that provides wonderful, yet practical advice
on how to become a social person. My version is the 14th edition with
a hard, black cover engraved with the title in gold script. The book
comprises 6 main sections, each focusing on one aspect varying from
dealing with people, presenting yourself in a proper way to influencing
others. Those are timeless lessons that can be widely applied on a
daily basis as well as on formal occasions.

There is plenty to take out from “How to win friends and influence
people” but the one thing that I’ve found most applicable and everyone
should practice was “6 ways to make people like you” principle. It
might sound as easy as pie and inevitable truth like smiling and being
a good listener. However, few have mastered it since they failed to
acknowledge the importance of simple but powerful acts. I’ve read the
book countless times but still struggle to bring those philosophies into
life. But practice makes perfect you know.

17. A CAFÉ YOU LIKE (gộp a quiet place quý 2)

What is it? Where

What you do there Why you like it

P3- COFFEE SHOP

What kinds of people like to go to a café?

Why do people like to hang out in coffee shops?

Do you think young people in VN visit coffee shops more often than
old people? Do Vietnamese people like drinking coffee?

Well, the first thing that springs to mind is my favourite coffee shop, a
charming hideaway just a few-minute walk from my office. I’ve been its
loyal guest for almost 8 years. Actually, it’s quite popular among
coffee fans in (Hanoi), especially those seeking a quiet place to enjoy
some quality “me” time.
The café is housed on the second storey of a gorgeous colonial
building right in the centre of Hanoi. There is a common
misconception that the villa was built by the French. In fact, it used to
be the home of a wealthy Hanoian family, making it a fascinating
embodiment of Hanoi culture. It’s hidden away from the main streets
so guests can indulge in an amazingly tranquil atmosphere here.

Whenever I get stressed out or feel weary, I will visit the coffee shop,
getting engrossed in a book while sipping a cup of coconut coffee or
egg coffee, which is their signature drink.

Stepping into the house, I feel like escaping into another world where
all the hustle and bustle of Hanoi are left behind.

Overall, this little café is truly a hidden gem (a treasure) for me. It is
extremely hard to find such a relaxing place in a bustling metropolis
like (Hanoi) you know.

18. A TIME GOT UP EARLY (gộp đề a time you helped someone,

topic làm nhóm ở trên)

(Dậy sớm hoàn thành nốt (prepare/ practice a presentation hoặc thực
hành thuyết trình vì kiểu I’m a last minute person, tối qua làm chưa
xong… When I got up, I felt exhausted, nhưng sau khi washed my face
with cool water, … felt refreshed and energized, … found it easier to
concentrate in the early morning than at night … )

When it was What you did

Why you got up early How you felt

P3 – GETTING UP

What kinds of people often get up early?

Do you think old people get up earlier than young people? Why do
some people find it easy to get up early?

Why do some people like to stay up late (don’t like to get up early?)

19. A TIME YOU DID SOMETHING DIFFICULT & SUCCEEDED (gộp A

difficult decision / topic teamwork: deliver a presentation (public
speaking) hoặc A time you tried but not succeed quý 2)

What it was When

How you did it & the result Why it was difficult

P3 CHALLENGE TOPIC

Should children have challenges?

How can parents encourage children to take challenges? What

challenges do children face?
What kinds of jobs are difficult? What challenges is the world facing?
Who should be responsible for them?

Sample: Well, this topic reminded me of the first time I started a

business a couple of years ago, which has changed my life altogether.

I was working for a travel company around that time but I was getting
stuck at my job. The idea of quitting the job crossed my mind from
time to time but it was too tough a decision to make. Eventually, I did
leave the company and started my own business of selling clothes to
professional women, which I had been contemplating for years.

In the beginning, my business took off quickly thanks to generous

support from my family and friends. After a few months, however, few
people kept returning to my shop and sales dropped steadily. I thought
it might be due to the lack of customer awareness so I decided to
borrow money to invest in Facebook and Instagram advertisements. I
even tried to learn photo editing to make our posts look more
appealing. Besides, I spent hours every day researching new trends
and styles to make sure our products satisfy our increasingly
discerning customers.

My hard work finally paid off. I had been able to turn my business
around and open another shop. I’ve learned a lot from that experience
but the greatest lesson is to rise to the challenge and step out of my
comfort zone.

20. A TIME YOU FELT PROUD OF A FAMILY MEMBER (gộp old

person tả bố quy 2)

When / Who he/she is What he/she did

Why you felt proud P3 - PROUD

What makes parents proud of their children?

Should children be rewarded for their achievements? How can children

be encouraged?

What makes adults proud of themselves?

Sample P2: Well, when I saw the topic, the first person that came to
mind is my dad.
Actually, I’ve always been extremely proud of him and his enormous
sacrifice for our family. He is still the one I turn to for advice whenever
I get stuck in life.

What I admire the most about my dad is his work ethics. He is in his
60s now and his hair has turned grey but he’s still working strenuously
on the field every day. With his consistent effort, he has been able to
send all of his children to universities. He has always pushed me to
work hard and make it an expectation of me. Thanks to his continuous
encouragement,

I’ve become more disciplined and confident. I’m always grateful for his
tremendous effort to provide for our family and spend time with us to
make sure we are well brought up. I believe he has done an incredible
job as a parent.

On top of that, I am always proud to be his daughter as he is loved and

respected by everyone in our village. I grew up with his witty jokes
which were able to make

us laugh endlessly no matter how upset we were. Also, he is super

optimistic. I’ve never heard him complaining about anything. He has
taught me to find the good in bad situations and to always look on the
bright side. He is absolutely a joy to be around.

All in all, my father have been the ultimate role model for me. He has
done everything possible to raise us to the best we can be. I hope to
become a great parent like him in the future.

IDIOMS: set my mind to / at the same time / look on the bright side / a
joy to be around

21. A DIFFICULT SKILL YOU LEARNED

(cứ nói về skill nào dễ nói nhất: English speaking, cooking … hoặc
gộp a natural talent - singing quý 2- nhớ chuyển sang thời quá khứ:
took a vocal course/ watched voice coaching tutorials online/ practiced
Karaoke on a daily basis…)

What it was

Why you learned it How you learned How you felt

P3 - SKILL

What kinds of skills do children need to learn?

Do you think young people can learn new skills faster than old people?
Is it easier to learn new skills now than in the past?

Which skills will be important in the future? How can people learn new
skills?

Are teachers important to people in learning new skills?

22. A TIME YOU MOVED TO A NEW HOME/ SCHOOL

When you moved Where you moved Why you moved How you felt

Why do people move to a new home? (advantages)

What problems do people face when moving to a new place?

(disadvantages) How can they solve these problems?

Is it good to move house frequently? Why?

This topic reminded me of the first time I moved to another city that’s
far away from my home. Ten years ago, I got into a prestigious
university in Hanoi and had to find somewhere to live during my four
years.

Two weeks before the admission date, my dad and I went to Hanoi to
search for a proper place. Initially, I intended to rent an apartment but
they were all beyond my tight budget and I couldn’t find friends to
share the rents. I ended up choosing a homestay within walking
distance to my school. I was going to live with a host family, having my
own room of course.

At first, I felt super excited because I had entered a new chapter of my

life. I would be living independently as a real grownup. There would be
no more nagging or reprimanding of my mom. However, that
excitement quickly faded and I started to feel homesick, lonely and

even overwhelmed sometimes. There was no one to talk to or share a

joke with because the home owners were too old and busy, and their
children all seemed snobbish.

On top of that, I had to go shopping and cook my own food, which was
quite a torture for me as I don’t have a knack for cooking. After a few
months of frustration, I managed to make some new friends in my
class and finally got a roommate. She was cute, funny and kind-
hearted, a perfect companion for me. We stayed side by side through
thick and thin during university years and have remained good friends
until now.
That relocation experience represents a major milestone in my life. I’ve
grown so much

thanks to the challenges I faced as a freshman.

23. A TIME YOU GAVE ADVICE TO OTHERS (gộp đề A difficult

decision chuyển I => My friend: khuyên bạn: sell online to test the
water before opening a shop…, các bạn tự sửa Intro và thêm 1 số chi
tiết cho hợp nhé)

When advice? To whom What the advice was Why you gave that
advice

24. SOMETHING YOU’RE INTERESTED TO LEARN (gộp đề A Talent -

Singing)

25. A FAMOUS PERSON (gộp SINGER/ ATHLETE )

PART 2 NEW TOPICS QUY 1 2022

1. A toy you liked playing with when you were a child

What it was

When you received it How you played with it How you felt about it

Well, I’m fortunate to be born and raised in the countryside where we

had unlimited space to play and discover the world around us. We
used to make our own toys and my favorite ones were a set of cooking
utensils, including pots, pans, chopsticks, you name it.

What was so special about these toys is that they were made entirely
from natural materials. The stove was made from clay while pots, pans
and bowls were actually clam shells. These toys were an
indispensable part of a traditional game called “ Let’s be a family”
which is still very popular among kids today.

My friends and I used to gather in my neighbor’s garden to play this

game. We assumed different roles of family members like dad, mom,
uncle, aunt and sister and brother. We would pretend to be busy
preparing for a special family gathering using these utensils.

Actually, we took some rice and vegetables from our family’s kitchens
and put them into our tiny pots placed on little clay ovens. We always
had a blast preparing and enjoying those meals together.

This set of toys was my childhood. They taught us a lot about the
value of family and teamwork. No matter how many times I had played
with them, I could never get tired of them.
● (would do ST = used to do ST: dùng kể lại thường làm gì trong
quá khứ)

2. A person you only met once and want to know more about

Who he/ she is When you met How you felt

Why you want to know more about him/ her

Gộp 1 bạn/ thầy/ cô siêu tiếng Anh gặp ở English Workshop

Well, this topic reminds me of my recent encounter with a guest

speaker at an English conversation workshop a couple of months ago.
He/ she is a well-known Youtuber / English teacher who has …(nêu
their achievements, hoàn thành)

I had been struggling with English speaking for years, so I was very
impressed with how fluent she / he was. He/ she could speak at length
about complex subjects such as culture and globalization.

Also, his / her experience and wealth of knowledge just blew me away.
Having completed his Master / PHD degree abroad, he/ she was able to
give a satisfying answer to all our tricky questions about overseas
study and culture shock management. He also provided us with a ton
of practical advice on how to level up our English skills.

I really want to get to know more about him/ her because despite all
her/ his outstanding accomplishments, he/ she seems very humble
and down-to-earth. He/ she also deeply cares about helping
Vietnamese youth to reach their full potential … I came to respect him/
her even more when I knew that she/he participated in the workshop
without getting paid anything. He/ she is without a doubt a brilliant role
model for me.

3. An ambition you haven’t achieved

What it is

What you have done about it Why you haven’t accomplished it How
you feel

(Gộp đề A time you did something difficult and not succeeded quý
trước: start a small business)

4. Something you can’t live without (not phone/ laptop) what it is

When did you got it

How it helps you in your life Why you can’t live without it

(Gộp đề Home equipment quý trước)

Well, when I saw the topic, the first thing that came to mind was a rice
cooker my sister sent me from Japan a couple of years ago. It’s also
the most practical birthday gift I’ve received. It has made my life so
much easier and enjoyable.
Rice is a staple food in Vietnam so we are very fussy about the way it
is cooked. For a skinny person like me, rice seems way more
important as I tend to eat it a lot on a daily basis. With that said, I find
this cooker special because it has outperformed all other models I had.
Its cooking bowl is super heavy with a thick bottom. I have no idea
what kind of metal it’s made of but I’m pretty sure that this material is
the key to the perfectly fluffy and tasty rice I enjoy every day.

Another handy feature I adore is its monitor screen which allows me to

choose various cooking options rather than just a single button as
seen in usual rice cookers. Thanks to it, I can effortlessly cook
porridge and steamed sticky rice, an essential festive food in Vietnam.
This is extremely convenient and economical since I don't need to
squander my hard- earned money on another steamer.

Overall, this handy rice cooker is absolutely something I can’t live

without. It means a lot to me.

5. A time you repaired a broken item in your home

what it was

How it was broken How it got repaired How you felt

Gộp rice cooker thêm đoạn broken và repaired

How it was broken:

- had been using it for 2 years and it had never disappointed me

- However, one day when I tried to turn it on, it refused to start.

- the monitor screen was dark and nothing was on display

How it got repaired

- was so frustrated because I had never expected it to break down

- called my tech-savvy friend whom I always turn to for technical

advice

- he told me that increased humidity in spring might have caused

the trouble

- came up with a brilliant solution … used a hair dryer to dry it

- and you know what? That trick worked very well.

- Now I’m able to use it normally again

- … felt relieved and overjoyed. I had made the right decision when
trying to fix it myself instead of bringing it to a service center and
being charged for a minor issue.

6. Something you received without having to pay for it (a product,

service, gift)

What it was

When you received Why it was free How you felt about it

(A free English conversation workshop gộp ST you did to learn a

language) có thể gộp cả đề something interesting you found on social
media của quý trước vào đề này: found a workshop on FB…)

Well, I’m a people person so I really enjoy attending free events. When
I was preparing for my Ielts exam, I joined multiple English clubs. The
one I remember the most is a free English conversation workshop
organized by a language center in Hanoi.

It was three months before my test date and I was still struggling with
my English speaking skill. I was able to understand most of a
conversation when I heard the language spoken. I could also hold a
conversation, but I made numerous mistakes when I spoke. Especially,
I had difficulty expressing complex ideas because my active
vocabulary was limited.

I came across a post about this event on Facebook and I registered for
it immediately. It was organized mainly for their students to practice
English but it was also open to everyone for free. Plus, there were
several well-known guest speakers, including native speakers and Ielts
examiners. They gave us a ton of advice on how to improve our
pronunciation, intonation and connected speeches. We were also
provided with essential phrases to discuss common topics related to
the workplace, the environment, media, education, culture and so on.

All in all, the workshop was quite an eye-opening experience for me

and I’ve made a lot of progress thanks to it.

7. A cake you were given on a special occasion

When you received Who gave it to you

Why they gave it to you How you felt

This topic reminds me of my 20th birthday when I got a yummy

homemade cake from my
dearest friend. That salted egg sponge cake has remained the best gift
I’ve ever received.

What’s so special about the cake is that my friend spent a whole day
preparing it for me. She confessed that she had no flair for cooking, so
it took her several weeks to practice with a lot of trial and error. All her
hard work had paid off so well when eventually she was able to make a
perfect one for me.

The cake looked amazing with yellow salted yolks placed on top of a
cheese cream layer. I had never been a fan of salted egg but the cake’s
sweet and savory combination just blew me away. Perhaps, it was my
friend’s enormous effort that made the fluffy cake taste just like
heaven.

I was moved to tears when she brought out the cake and sang “happy
birthday”. She had told me that she would give me a special present
on my 20th birthday. Little did I know that she would go extra miles to
bake me a cake. I was so lucky to have that friend in my life.

8. An interesting song

What it is

How you knew it Why you like it

Well, as a huge fan of western Pop music, I’m very fond of trendy
international new hits on Youtube. However, my all-time favorite is an
old Vietnamese song I’ve been listening to for over 15 years. It is
called “Nguoi Thay” or “The teacher” which is dedicated to all
committed teachers out there.

In grade 9, I participated in a student choir performing this song in

celebration of our national Teacher Day at school. Its lyrics, especially
the chorus, were so touching that I was moved to tears. The song has
almost become our national anthem on that special day.

Nowadays, the tradition of honoring educators has somewhat faded.

This song, however, is a perfect reminder of the unseen sacrifice made
by our devoted teachers. They have spent their whole life improving
not only students’ performance but also the future of their nation. They
invest enormous effort into creating fascinating and meaningful
lessons that help mold youngsters into contributing members of
society.

I dearly love this song because it has raised people’s awareness about
the lasting contributions of great teachers, our unsung heroes.

9. A time you successfully prepared for a happy event

what it was What you did

How you prepared for it How you felt

(gộp a cake=> prepared for my dearest friend’s birthday party … went

online watching dozens of Youtube tutorials to learn how to make it)

10. A discussion/ conversation that you found interesting

What was discussed? With whom?

When

Why it was interesting

(gộp English conversation workshop on overseas study)

11. A person you spend a lot of time with (nếu bí ideas hãy nói 2
người: hồi nhỏ và bây giờ)

Who he/she is

What do you often do with her/ him

why do you like spending time with her/ him How you feel about her/
him

Does that person share something in common with you?

(gộp đề tả bố quý trước hay tả bạn):

Dùng được các idioms như: share a lot in common/ a joy to be around/
a shoulder to cry on

12. An ideal house you’d like to live in

What it looks Where it is located

Why you’d like to live in that house

Well, I’ve always dreamed of a house that looks similar to my family’s

cottage which I grew up in.

First and foremost, it should be located in a tranquil area with

picturesque scenery. As a nature lover, I’d love to stay as close to
mountains, forests and rivers as possible. Also, it must have a large
garden where I can grow a variety of flowers, vegetables and herbs.

During my childhood years, I used to help my parents out with easy

chores on the farm such as watering plants or picking fruits. This has
instilled in me an ever-lasting love for soil, sunshine, water and trees,
so a garden is definitely a must.
About the building and design, I don’t have a particular style in mind
right now but a fair combination of comfort and sustainability would be
all I wish for. I can imagine a two storey house with three cozy
bedrooms, a living room and a spacious kitchen. It’s best if all rooms
on the second floor are complete with a private balcony that offers
fabulous views over the surrounding areas.

All in all, I’m a big fan of rustic houses in quiet areas, preferably in a
small town or in the countryside. For now, I’m happy living in the city
but when I settle down, I hope I will be able to afford such a house.

13. A skill you learned from old people (cooking, gardening, baking,
knitting)

What it was Who taught you

How you learned it How you felt about it

This topic reminded me of my fond childhood memories. When I was

little, I was extremely close to my dad, following him around all the
time. He was my first teacher, instructing me how to do a whole lot of
stuff. One of the first skill sets he taught me was gardening which I
now take great pride in.

You probably know how time-consuming and effort-consuming

gardening is, from preparing the soil to planting, weeding and looking
after the plants. They seem to be all manual work but in fact they can
be pretty nerve-wracking. I had a hard time learning how to properly
take care of various kinds of vegetables. For example, some require
regular watering while others don’t or which fertilizer should be used
and when. Did you know that it isn’t a good idea to water seedlings
when the soil is still hot after a scorching day? Even catching
caterpillars can be quite tricky and the ideal timing for this task is in
the early morning when they come out of the soil to eat leaves.

For sure, things are not always that straightforward but working with
nature might be one of the most intriguing experiences in my life.
Gardening has also instilled in me crucial values such as hard work,
patience and discipline. When I have children of my own, I will
definitely get them involved in this activity at a very young age.

14. A place in the countryside you visited (a village)

Where it was When you visited What you did there

How you felt about the place

Well, I was born and grew up in the countryside, where nature was all
around and every house had a large garden. I used to take all those
things for granted. Then, I moved to the city for higher education and
work, and I realized how significant they are.

The other day, I felt so fed up with urban life that I decided to take two
weeks off to get away from it all for a while. I searched online and
found a village in Hue province in Central Vietnam where every family
owns a tiny house but an enormous garden. I booked a homestay there
and I wasn’t disappointed. The garden of my host family was incredibly
beautiful, luxuriant and well laid out. It simply took my breath away.

Spanning an extensive area of more than 1,000 square meters, this

garden had designated spaces for fruit trees, vegetables, herbs and
flowers, separated by verdant ornamental trees. Its gate was elegantly
covered by vine plants and it shared no actual boundaries with
neighboring gardens, just lines of areca. Everything was green. I was
blown away by the meticulous attention and elaborate effort local
people invested in their gardens. It was easy to see why they all looked
so stunning.

This homestay trip was an incredibly rewarding experience for me. I

was deeply impressed with the passionate love local people have for
their gardens and nature in general. They have taken gardening work
to a whole new level. I hope the village would never be modernized and
all this picturesque greenery would stay forever.

IDIOMS: take something for granted / for a while / took my breath

away / be blown away / take something to a new level

15. Something you did to learn a language (Gộp: going to English

conversation workshops)

What language you learned what you did

How it helped you learned it How you felt

16. Describe a person whose work is useful to society

Who he/ she is What he/ she does

How you knew her/ him

Why you think he/ she is useful to society Does that person love their
job?

(Gộp business leader quý trước hoặc someone you met once and want
to know…)

17. Describe a gift you’d like to buy for a friend.

what it is

who you are going to give it to

On what occasion

Why you choose that gift for him/ her

Gộp A cake: I would buy this cake because she’s a huge fan of salted
eggs…

*Nếu bí ideas bạn cứ nói nhiều gifts vào thay vì chỉ nói 1 cái

To be honest, I always have a hard time choosing gifts since I’m not
good at reading people’s minds. My dearest friend’s birthday is
coming and I haven’t decided on a present for her yet.

I would probably buy her a cake. She’s really into baking as I saw her
watching baking tutorials a lot. Also, she is always beaming when
talking about new bakeries in town. She’s a huge fan of salted eggs so
perhaps a salted egg sponge cake would make a perfect gift for her.

The other day, however, I heard she had taken up a new hobby which
is gardening. Should I buy her a pot of flowers instead? I know she
would make a ton of yummy cakes for her own birthday so the first
option seems less appealing. Probably, I would go with the other
choice. Flowers tend to last longer and she would think of me
whenever she waters them or takes care of them…

18. A story someone told you

what it was who told you

why you remember it

How you feel about the story

Câu chuyện về bàn tay của cô giáo, dưới đây là câu chuyện các bạn
gộp vào đề Interesting Song ở trên để nói nhé:

A heart-touching, inspirational story about the impact of a great

teacher on a child… Mom told me this story when I was about 7 and it
has left a lasting impact on my life.

It was a story about gratitude. As Thanksgiving Day was near, a first

grade teacher gave her class a fun assignment — to draw a picture of
something for which they were thankful.

Most of the children drew pictures of turkeys and other traditional

goodies of the holiday season. But a student named Douglas made a
different kind of picture. He drew a hand. Nothing else. Just an empty
hand. Douglas was from a poverty-stricken family.

His abstract image captured the imagination of his peers. One child
guessed it was the hand of a farmer. Another suggested a police
officer and others guessed it was the hand of God. The little boy
looked away and said it was the teacher’s hand.

I was touched deeply by this story as it reminded me of the unseen

sacrifice made by our devoted teachers. They have spent their whole
life improving not only students’ performance but also their future life.
This story also helps nurture the value of gratitude and helping others.
They might not always say thanks. But they’ll remember the hand that
reaches out.

19. A rule or regulation you don't like

what it is

why you don’t like it

How other people feel about it Have you followed it?

An unreasonable and meaningless regulation : The dress code at

highschool => all students have to wear a uniform

A black trouser and a white blouse with the school’s logo on its

Why: costly => a waste of parents’ hard-earned money / inconvenient:

can’t be passed down to my brother/ sister due to the logo

Compulsory => Other clothes aren’t allowed => boring style =>
discourage creativity and diversity => unstimulating learning
environment

The uniform is associated with the school’s reputation. => is labeled as

“stupid” if ..study in an ordinary school rather than a gifted school.

My parents are also against this uniform policy

I’ve never violated that regulation but I can’t stand it

20. An interesting city (Gộp Hôi An qúy trước hoặc sample dưới)

what it is where it is

how you knew it

why you think it’s interesting

There are dozens of fascinating cities on my bucket list but Kyoto in

Japan has always been my fantasy world. With its unique traditional
culture and amazing people, the city has a lot to offer.

I have loved Japan since I was little, perhaps at 7 or 8 years old. I first
got interested in this land of the rising sun when I discovered
Japanese comic books and Anime. Then I started to delve into
(explore) Japanese culture and have become a huge fan of it. I was
particularly captivated by Kyoto with its charming traditional
architecture, amazing restaurants and teahouses, and of course the
mysterious geisha hostess. It is originally an imperial city and now a
strictly preserved UNESCO heritage site, which explains why the old
town is so tranquil and relaxing despite the massive worldwide
attention it has received.

Another reason why I dearly love Kyoto is the people. It seems to me

that Japanese people have taken everything to a whole new level. The
way they treat each other with utmost kindness and courtesy, and the
way they make cooking or crafting a refined art have led me to believe
that this land is truly one of a kind.

Overall, Kyoto is well worth visiting, even just for a short while as I
know how expensive it could be. If I was able to set my foot on it, I
would have nothing else to wish for.

IDIOMS: my bucket list / one of a kind / for a short while

21. A lesson that you remember well (gộp a story someone told=> A
primary teacher told us this story in an ethics class when I was in 5th
grade )

what it was

when you learned it Why you remember it How you feel about it

22. A person you follow on social media (gộp Someone you met
once ở trên hay tả bạn thân)

who he/ she is

How you knew him/her

What she/ he often posts on social media? (memories and experiences

from his/her overseas study)

Why you follow him/ her (learn English, positive energy/ positive
outlook in life …)

23. An item of clothing that someone gave you

what it was

who gave it to you & why when you got it

whether you like it or not

Have you ever given clothes to others? (cau hoi phu P2)

A white blouse my sister gave me

When I saw the topic the first thing that came to mind was a white
blouse my sister gave me a couple of months ago. The blouse was a
brand new one but it was too small for her so she passed it down to
me.

- Looks chic and adorable, has floral embroidery details on its

collars

- Why: fits me like a glove (fits me perfectly) , don’t have to buy a

new one => … great for someone living on a tight budget like me

- Why? convenient and efficient: machine washable , non-

wrinkable, could go well with other items in my wardrobe

- Feel confident & comfortable wearing it, neither too formal, nor
too casual. … No need to waste time thinking how to mix and match a
perfect outfit in the morning.

24. A long walk you took (gộp Hoi An : a place you visited quý trước)

when did you walk with whom

why you walked (traffic-free hours at night in the old town)

how you felt after the walk (had a blast, excited, not tired at all, will
return to …)

25. A time you visited a new place gộp như 24

PART 3

Công thức: MAIN IDEA + REASONS + EXPLANATIONS + (EXAMPLE)

Bạn càng đọc nhiều về các vấn đề xã hội thì càng có nhiều kiến thức
và lập luận part 3 của bạn càng sắc sảo – independent thinking là một
yếu tố quan trọng của band cao.

Các bạn có thể dùng structure cho part 3 ở đầu sách để trả lời nhưng
không nên máy móc quá để tránh lặp cấu trúc. Ideas của part 3 chính
là ideas của Writing task 2. Part 3 là tranh luận chứ không phải trò
chuyện nên bạn phải “rắn” 1 chút để bảo vệ quan điểm của mình. Sẽ
có những câu hỏi “khó đỡ” nhưng bạn không nên im lặng quá lâu, hãy
câu giờ để nghĩ ra idea bằng: That’s a tough/ tricky question. My mind
just went blank completely hoặc I’m trying to find a way to put this …
(tui đang tìm cách để diễn đạt) …
Part 3 các bạn nên trả lời triết lí một chút (giống như 1 đoạn văn task
2: trình bày main idea trước rồi diễn giải ra sub ideas) vì một vấn đề
nên được phân tích mổ xẻ từ nhiều khía cạnh, góc nhìn để cho thấy
bạn có suy nghĩ thấu đáo. Để trả lời dài bạn nên cho thêm ví dụ,
nhưng không phải về cá nhân, bản thân hay gia đình bạn mà là về số
đông mọi người bạn quan sát được từ đời sống xung quanh, kiến
thức, tin tức ....

Với những câu hỏi KHÓ (thường dạng so sánh) trong part 3, các bạn
nên trả lời theo kiểu nói nước đôi để kéo dài (mọi thứ đều có 2 mặt
của nó): Well, I’m not sure. On the one hand,….On the other hand,…
hoặc cấu trúc (…while …) sau đó kết luận All in all, it’s hard to tell…
như ví dụ dưới:

Are skills in the past more difficult to learn than today’s skills?

Well, I’m not sure. I don’t have strong feelings one way or the other. On
the one hand, old- fashioned skills such as bread-making, gardening
or knitting tend to take a lot of manual effort and countless hours of
practice. On the other hand, modern skills like computer programing
or video editing are equally time-consuming and can be even more
nerve-wracking. Overall, it’s really hard to tell which ones are more
daunting to master.

NHỮNG CỤM TỪ HAY + GỢI Ý MAIN IDEAS CHO PART 3

TIP: EFFECT - Hệ quả: (ideas: bạn có thể đánh giá tác động theo các ý
phụ về kinh tế, văn hóa xã hội, môi trường nếu là câu hỏi vĩ mô, còn vi
mô thì bạn xem xét tác động lên hoặc từ đời sống gia đình, đời sống
cá nhân cả thể chất lẫn tinh thần, sức khỏe, trí tuệ …)

It can exert a positive/negative influence on…

It can have a positive/negative/ detrimental effect (impact) on… As a

result… hoặc Consequently…

This means …. hoặc It might lead to/ result in / bring about…

TIP: Bạn cũng có thể nghĩ ra ý tưởng để nói bằng cách phân tích vấn
đề từ góc nhìn của tất cả các bên có liên quan ví dụ trong business thì
có business owners, customers, the government, suppliers, the
environment … Mỗi góc nhìn sẽ là 1 idea.
CAUSE – WHY? Nguyên nhân phổ biến cho các vấn đề trong part 3 -
ideas:

● Mức sống/ thu nhập tăng: higher standard of living/ chi phí sinh
hoạt tăng: higher cost of living,

● Toàn cầu hóa (globalisation) , ảnh hưởng của western culture

qua movies & pop music

● Đời sống hiện đại bận rộn coi trọng tích lũy vật chất: our modern
hectic life centred around material acquisition / the rat race

● Sự phát triển của công nghệ/ Internet: the advent of the Internet /
technological advancement

● Do ảnh hưởng bạn bè/ thần tượng – peer pressure/ influential

celebrities

● Do tính cách hướng nội hướng ngoại, do giáo dục gia đình
(family upbringing)

Với dạng câu hỏi chung chung Who, What, Which, When, How:

TIP: CHIA NHỎ IDEAS theo các cặp đối lập để so sánh và nói dài hơn:
giới tính nam nữ/ người già người trẻ/ nông thôn – thành thị…/ người
giàu - người nghèo, công ty lớn – nhỏ…)

Cấu trúc nêu nguyên nhân CAUSE – EFFECT (xem thêm trong sách
WRITING task 2)

The root of the problem is….

It all stems from… / It can be attributed to … This is mainly because…

The main reason is

Another cause / factor is …

SUGGESTION / SOLUTION - Đưa ra gợi ý/ giải pháp:

We could solve the problem by… I would suggest …ing

I think it’s a good idea to… One possible solution is…

PARAPHRASE – diễn đạt lại bằng cách khác rõ hơn

What I'm trying to say is... In other words...

To put it another way... What I mean is...

Perhaps I should make that clearer by saying...

AGREE :

Definitely/ Absolutely (yes) Yes, I agree...

I totally agree

That's my view exactly. I couldn't agree more.

DISAGREE:

Absolutely not No, I disagree.

I'm afraid I disagree.

I see things rather differently myself. I tend to disagree.

I'm not so sure about that. That’s partialy true BUT...

OTHERS’s OPINION – Người ta nói rằng

Many people claim that… / It is often said that… / It’s widely believed
that

MY OPINION - Trình bày quan điểm của mình

Personally, I think… / My own view is that …/ From my perspective,…

The way I see it, …

Nếu chắc chắn:

I’m sure that… / I’m convinced that… / I’m certain that…

FUTURE PREDICTION (dự về tương lai): dùng “would/ may/ might/

possibly/ probably ” rất nhiều vì là giả thuyết

I suppose…

It’s possible that … I can imagine that… I guess that…

Perhaps…

I think it’s likely/unlikely that…

ASKING for CLARIFICATION – yêu cầu giám khảo nhắc lại/ hỏi lại (chỉ
được part 3)
Sorry, would you mind repeating the question? Could you please
explain what ...(word)... means?

Sorry, I'm afraid I don't understand the question. Could you explain the
word …?

Đưa ra câu kết luận: (trong trường hợp bạn diễn đạt theo cách quy
nạp: ý chính cuối đoạn)

Overall… / All in all / The bottom line is …

PART 3 SAMPLES

Bạn lưu ý những cách triển khai ý có thể dùng với mọi topic miễn là
cùng dạng câu hỏi, ví dụ dạng so sánh quá khứ và hiện tại, old people
và young people, men và women … bạn cần phân tích cả 2 đối tượng
và dùng được so sánh hơn.

PART 3 OLD TOPICS (GIỮ LẠI TỪ QUÝ 3)

Cố gắng dùng thời đa dạng và cấu trúc suy đoán: can could, may,
might, tend to, be likely to… để nói về nguyên nhân, hệ quả - vì đây chỉ
là suy đoán của bạn, không phải sự thật)

1. AN ACTIVITY YOU USUALLY DO THAT WASTES YOUR TIME

How can people balance life and work?

Well, a healthy work/life balance is of paramount importance and it’s

possible to achieve that. Firstly, people should make detailed plans
such as a to-do list on a daily basis and limit working overtime or bring
work home. They should sharpen their professional skills and
concentration ability so that they can meet their deadlines without
having to sacrifice their family time for work. Secondly, it’s crucial for
them to have leisure pursuits like cycling, jogging, reading or
gardening. These recreational activities help relieve work-related
stress, and boost their physical and mental well-being.

What kinds of activities do you consider a waste of time?

Without a doubt, there are numerous activities that can be seen as

frivolous. The most common ones are those done without any
particular purpose and producing no positive outcome. For example, if
children spend more than one hour a day playing video games or
chatting with friends, the excessive hours could be considered wasted.
Another situation might be when people have to wait for someone for a
long time but that person doesn’t show up, I mean when people get
stood up.
What usually makes people feel pressured?

Well, there are all kinds of stressors but I suppose the most significant
ones might be related to work or study. It’s common for people to see
life as a race for success and they must compete to get ahead of
others. This fierce competition tends to place enormous pressure on
the participants as they have to work harder and faster. Apart from
this, financial strain and problematic relationships are also major
sources of stress these days. A tight budget or a painful breakup
usually lead to anxiety and depression, which may take a toll on
people’s health.

Do you think young people or old people are better at managing time?
(dùng when it comes to + something để dẫn giới thiệu về 1 topic =
About/ With regard to ST)

When it comes to time management, I believe old people are wiser than
their young counterparts. This is mainly because they tend to be more
disciplined and cultivating self-

discipline takes time. Besides, compared to the young, older adults

have obtained far more skills and experiences both in their personal
life and professional life; I mean with age comes wisdom. They know
what is important and should be given priority, and what is trivial. On
top of that, they are usually better at making plans, which is essential
to effective time management. (Which thay cho ý trước)

Why do young people waste more time than old people?

That’s an interesting one. There could be different explanations for this

but I suppose the primary reason is that the young tend to
underestimate the value of time. They might think they have their
whole life ahead and wasting a day doesn’t matter. Another common
cause is probably because they haven’t found the purpose of their life.
When they have nothing to focus on or devote their spare time to, it’s
natural for them to just kill time or fool around.

How can people manage their time better?

(Cấu trúc liệt kê: make plans & to-do lists/ set priority: what is urgent &
more important/ use mobile apps to remind them of what to do every
single day)

Of course, different people have different methods to make the most of

their time but I’d say that the most common practice is making a
detailed plan on a daily or weekly basis. It’s crucial to set priority and a
time frame to each task, and stick to that plan. There are numerous
applications and softwares people can utilise to manage their time
more effectively. Apart from this, they also need to master some
techniques or tricks to get rid of procrastination and improve their
concentration ability so that they can accomplish what they set their
mind to within that time frame.
Câu hỏi chỉ cho band cao (8,9)

Is time management important? (Cấu trúc important: Without a doubt,

excellent time management skill is the key to success. Modern life is
becoming increasingly hectic while our time budget is limited ... poor
time management might lead to poor performance at work or study
and a lack of time for recreation and relaxation => As a result, people
who don’t use their time efficiently might fail to obtain significant
achievements and thus be unable to lead a meaningful life)

Should parents manage their kids’ time? (Main ideas: Yes, they should
supervise how their kids spend time but not be too strict or rigid. For
example, screen time & social media use ...)

Is time important?

Absolutely. It is said that time is money but for me, time is the most
precious asset people have. If they lose money, they can always earn it
back. However if they waste a day, it is lost forever. There is no way to
retrieve it back. That’s why there’s a saying that “Those who always
kill time kill their own chance in life”.

2. AN ITEM YOU SPENT MORE THAN YOU PLANNED P3

SHOPPING- MONEY (xem trong old topic quy 2)

Do you often overspend? (cau hoi phu part 2)

No, I only do so on a handful of items, mostly digital gadgets because

I’m not tech savvy. I’ve been taught to live within my means from a
very young age.

What do young people spend most of their money on?

Of course, tuition and course fees account for a major share of young
people’s spendings. They need to broaden their horizons and acquire
relevant sets of skills so that they can be well- positioned for the future
workforce. Additionally, they tend to squander money on the latest
fashion designs and gadgets to keep up with the trends or simply to
express their personality and assert themselves.

Do you think people are buying too much?

Yes, totally. There has been an increasing trend of overconsumption

over the last decades. This is mainly due to increased standards of
living. Consumers tend to splurge on not only necessity goods but
also luxury items to show off their economic status. Besides,
advertising has constantly encouraged them to make unplanned
purchases, I mean to buy in excess of their need. Many young women,
for example, are willing to buy new lipsticks and clothes to keep up
with the latest trends and throw away the old ones even though they
are still perfectly usable.

What are the effects of this trend?

Without a doubt, overconsumption might have devastating effects on

the environment and people’s quality of life. This unsustainable
lifestyle contributes significantly to massive waste increase,
environmental pollutions and resource depletion, which are
progressively destroying

the earth. On top of that, when people waste money on items they
don't need, they might end up getting into financial trouble like
becoming penniless or being in debt. This would take a toll on their
well-being and their overall satisfaction with life”

Do you think it is important to save money?

Without a doubt, a frugal lifestyle is the key to a balanced and fulfilling

life. By saving for rainy days, people can obtain financial stability and
security, which is essential to their health.

What’s more, when people spend less than they earn, they could
invest in business or other money-making tools to gain passive
income. This way, they won’t have to work like a beaver their whole life
just to make a living. Instead, they can allow themselves to retire early
and pursue their passion or hobby.

3. A PERSON AT PRIMARY SCHOOL WHO IMPRESSED YOU P3

PEOPLE – CHILDHOOD

Why do people often miss their childhood?

Well, people tend to have fond memories of their childhood because

these early years in life are often carefree and exciting. They can play
and have fun all day long without having to worry too much about
homework or making a living or the future. Reminiscing about this
fantastic period helps people relieve stress and cope better with the
challenges they are facing as a grownup.

Do you think kids are happier than adults?

That’s an interesting one. The way I see it, in each stage of our life
from childhood to adolescence and adulthood, we can feel content
with life for different reasons. Adults define happiness in various ways.
Some might be happy when they have a close-knit family to rely on
through thick and thin or when they’re in a wonderful relationship with
their partner. Others may feel over the moon when they are able to
achieve a major goal. What I’m trying to say is that although adults can
experience several types of happiness in their life, kids tend to feel
elated more often than grownups as they haven’t faced any adversity
or struggle.

Do you think people often stay in touch with their childhood friends?

Well, personally I think few people manage to keep in touch with old
friends from childhood. This is mainly because they often grow apart
and long distance might make it hard to maintain a close-knit
friendship, out of sight, out of mind, you know. Added to that, as
people get older, they can make numerous new friends and can only
take care of their current relationships. Not to mention, they have to
face all kinds of struggles in their personal life, so they hardly have
time to spend with their long-lost friends even though they can easily
reconnect on social media today.
What kinds of primary school teachers do you think children like? (câu
dễ bạn tự tả lời nhé)

Gợi ý ideas: soft / gentle /funny/ caring (treat them like their mom) /
patient (never scold them or lose their temper/ get angry … adopt
creative teaching methods ...)

Is it important to have beautiful childhood memories?

Absolutely, fond memories of childhood might pave the way for a

balanced and fulfilling life. It’s fair to say that what children experience
during these formative years can define their future. People with stable
upbringing tend to be more self-assured, which is the key to
significant accomplishments. Children who have gone through a
traumatic childhood, on the other hand, are more likely to have trouble
later in life, like developing antisocial behaviours or committing crime.

4. A TIME YOU WAITED FOR ST SPECIAL P3 WAITING - PATIENCE

When do people often need to wait? (có thể thêm idea: download a file
with slow Internet connection)

Without a doubt, there are countless situations in which people have

to wait. For instance, when they are expecting an exciting event such
as a wedding or a birthday party, a bit of waiting would make the
experience even more rewarding. Another case is when people are
standing in line in order to be served at a crowded store, supermarket
or restaurant. Customers are accustomed to waiting for their turn
these days.

What are the impacts of waiting on society?

The way I see it, waiting might have both favourable and adverse
impacts on individuals and society at large. Unquestionably, waiting
makes people become more patient, which is essential to any
significant accomplishment. Not to mention, waiting in line helps
create order

and foster fairness. However, waiting for nothing could have

significant drawbacks on society. It inevitably leads to a waste of time,
lowered productivity and increased anxiety, which might take a toll on
the economy and people’s quality of life.

Who do you think are more patient, children or adults? (nhớ dùng so
sánh hơn)

That’s an interesting one. Although some people are born impatient, I

believe with age, people become calmer and more tolerant of a slow
pace of life. Young people especially children and teens tend to be less
patient than their older counterparts because they just can’t stand the
boredom of waiting. They easily lose their temper or get stressed out
when things are not going the way they expect. Older adults on the
other hand, are more experienced and know how life really works.
Success and achievements take time and perseverance. Sometimes,
the best solution might be just to go with the flow.

Do you think people are now more patient than they were in the past?

From my perspective, people are becoming less patient than they used
to be. This is mainly due to the rapid development of technology over
the last decades. Most millennials refuse to accept the status quo; they
want to see major changes and quick results. They just can’t wait.
Another reason might be the fast pace of modern life, which forces
people to rush and to be constantly on the go. Idle time spent on
waiting even just a minute is widely seen as a waste.

5. A HABIT OF YOUR FRIEND YOU’D LIKE TO DEVELOP

P3 HABIT

What kinds of habits should children have?

Without a doubt, they should develop habits that give structure to their
life. It’s crucial for them to maintain a daily routine from getting up to
going to sleep so that they can take care of themselves properly.
Added to that, other small habits like making to-do lists, doing chores,
reading books or playing should also be cultivated from a very young
age. These activities help instill discipline and essential values such
as hard work, patience and self-confidence in a child.

What kinds of habits should children avoid?

Of course, there are countless unhealthy habits kids shouldn’t get into.
I’d say that the most destructive ones include telling lies, excessive
gaming or wasting time on social media. A dishonest person is
definitely the worst role model for kids to become. Too much screen
time could also have profound impacts on children’s character.
Sedentary kids tend to be slothful (lazy), passive, irritable and prone to
antisocial behaviors. Not to mention, these habits might destroy their
self-worth and take a toll on their health as well as their performance at
school.

How can parents teach their children good habits?

Well, I’m not an expert in parenting but I suppose first and foremost
they must set a good example for their kids. It’s widely believed that
children are a mirror of adults in their family so if these grownups
maintain healthy and constructive habits, kids tend to acquire the
same.

What’s more, it’s vital to consciously instill these habits in a child as

early as possible. Parents can achieve that by actively getting involved
in the education of their little ones, from teaching them how to get
dressed and keep their room tidy to setting goals and making plans. I
strongly believe that excellent family education during these formative
years lays the foundation for a fulfilling life.
Do you think people change their habits as they get older?

Of course, as people grow older, their life will change and their habits
will also change accordingly. The main reason is that old habits no
longer produce the outcome they desire or might be inappropriate to
keep due to their new living environments or new ways of thinking. For
example, children often dance and sing along to their favourite TV
programs but they quit doing so when they grow up. This type of
behaviour is considered childish by many. So, apart from self-interest,
peer pressure also plays a key role in habit alterations.

6. A FOREIGN PERSON YOU LIKE P3 FOREIGN PEOPLE

Do you have any foreign friends? (cau hoi phu part 2)

Yes, I’ve been learning English through online forums and networks so
I do have some lovely friends from the US and Europe.

Do you think having foreign friends is a good way to learn about other
countries?

Definitely. They would give us valuable insights into their way of life,
like food, traditions and customs. Learning about another culture in a
direct manner like this can be of immense help because stereotypes
and misperception can be avoided. Native people know their country
inside out so they’re in a better position to explain and clarify any
misunderstandings or assumptions about their nation.

Do you think it’s important to learn about the culture of a country

before visiting it? (xem topic Vacation)

Absolutely, it is essential to learn about the destination country as

much as we can before our trip. This helps lessen the negative impacts
of a possible culture shock. Also, by showing our understanding and
respect of local traditions and customs, we can avoid unnecessary
embarrassment. For instance, in western cultures, wearing tees and
shorts at religious sites or entering houses without removing shoes
are totally acceptable but in some Asian countries, these practices
might be considered inappropriate or disrespectful. It is therefore
crucial to do some searching in advance.

Do people in Vietnam like to work in an international company?

Oh, they do. Most fresh graduates long to work for a giant
multinational corporation like Unilever or P&G. Maybe because of their
glamour and reputation, you know. It must be quite something to be
part of a huge enterprise that is recognized all over the world. These
companies have been around for a while so they could provide
employees with a sense of pride, stability and structure. People can
easily see their career ladder when joining an established business.
Above all, global businesses often have abundant resources to invest
in their staff. They tend to offer more attractive benefit packages that
cover health insurance, paid holidays and retirement plans.

What abilities are required for working in international companies?

Without a doubt, a global work environment is highly demanding.
Firstly, people must display excellent command of the language used,
which is usually English. Secondly, they should be proficient at cross-
cultural communication skills. This would enable them to collaborate
with their co-workers from other countries smoothly and effectively.
On top of that, they should be proactive and open-minded. Only with
this mindset, can they survive and thrive in a multinational
corporation.

Do Vietnamese people prefer domestic products or foreign products

(keywords: imported products from western countries or Japan and
Korea. They are believed to be of higher quality even though some are
actually made in Vietnam like clothes of Zara or Mango. Probably,
these companies owns stronger brands than domestic companies.
Also, they appear to invest more money into PR and advertising, hiring
supermodels and celebrities to sponsor their products, leading to far
higher brand awareness.)

7. A DIFFICULT DECISION YOU MADE P3 DECISION MAKING

What kinds of decisions do people usually make in their daily life?

What should people do when making a hard decision?

Do you think it is easier to make a decision by yourself or by

discussing it with others? Why do you think many young people don’t
like to follow their parents’ advice?

What should people do to make better decisions?

What kinds of decisions do people make everyday? (gợi ý ideas + cấu

trúc cho câu hỏi dạng KIND OF: Well, people usually make thousands
of decisions on a daily basis, both consciously and unconsciously. At
home, they have to decide what to eat or wear. At work which
task

should be prioritised, how to handle a discerning customer… When

they go shopping, select

what to buy and whether they should bargain or not )

Can children make decisions on their own? (Cấu trúc IT DEPENDS –

tùy trường hợp, chia nhỏ ý):

Well, it depends. Generally speaking, making decisions and taking full

responsibility for them is a crucial skill children need to learn bit by bit.
Babies or young kids can decide for themselves on trivial matters such
as which outfit to wear. However, the majority of decisions concerning
their future must be made by their guardians who are more
knowledgeable about the world. As for older children, I believe,
probably from 16 they are capable of making their own choices in not
only day-to-day chores but also major issues such as study, career
and relationships. Of course, parents still have a guiding role to play.
What kinds of decisions are difficult to make?

I’d say that the toughest decisions are those related to university or
career choice. Such

decisions are critical as they define people’s lives. Choosing a future

pathway to take involves prediction and massive risks. On top of that,
people have to make these crucial decisions when they are still very
young. Due to a severe lack of information or unawareness of their
own interests and talents, they might end up choosing the wrong
path ...)

What should people do when they have to make such decisions? (gợi
ý idea: First, they might ask an expert or experienced people for
advice… Additionally, they should try to obtain relevant information
from trusted sources they can seek. Finally, it’s crucial for them to
constantly broaden their horizon/ expand their perspective / earn as
much practical experience as possible so that they could have a higher
chance of making a fruitful decision. For example, highschoolers
might consider taking a gap year to discover the world and
themselves. This would enable them to find their place in life that fit
their talents and personality...

How is making decisions today different from the past? (gợi ý idea:
people these days are better informed as the Internet provides an
instant access to a wealth of information. By contrast, in the past,
people could only gather information from books or by asking people
around them, which used to be time-consuming and ineffective.
Another point I should add is that today people tend to be affected by
external influences from friends, social media and their idols …)

How do businesses and organisations make decisions? (gợi ý idea: In

a top-down business, highest-ranking leaders are solely responsible
for decision making ... In other companies with a more democratic
corporate culture, the common practice is to reach a final decision
through meetings & discussions)

8. A TRIP BY CAR/BIKE/MOTORBIKE YOU WANT TO MAKE P3

TRANSPORT

What types of vehicles are popular in VN? How have means of

transport changed in VN?

Are there any differences in the transport systems of rural and urban
areas in VN? What are the advantages and disadvantages of private
transport?

Do you think people should change the way they travel to protect the
environment?

What types of vehicles are popular in your country?

Well, the most common means of transport in Vietnam are motorcycles
(motorbikes) and cars. Our public transport system is underdeveloped,
especially in remote areas. Buses are quite popular but not always
reliable. Trains aren’t widely preferred as they’re way too old and slow.
However, air travel is becoming increasingly affordable and widely
used these days though I’m not quite sure if a plane is also
categorised as a vehicle.

Are there any differences in the transport systems of rural and urban
areas in VN?

Without a doubt, the transport systems in major cities of Vietnam are

more advanced and better-planned than those in the countryside.
Paved roads with designated lanes for each kind of vehicle,
overpasses and traffic calming devices are commonly found in Hanoi
or Ho Chi Minh city but are non-existent in rural areas. Another
distinction is that city streets tend to be packed with motorbikes and
cars all day long while those in the countryside are quiet with few
motorbikes or electric bikes passing by occasionally.

Why do people use private transport rather than public transport? Ads
& Disads of this?

Most people in Vietnam prefer and rely on their private vehicles to get
around, especially motorbikes. They are faster and much more
convenient than buses. Especially when you consider that there are so
many long and narrow lanes in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City that can be
accessed by foot or small vehicles only.

However, I believe private transport is the primary cause of several

pressing problems that big cities are facing, including air pollution and
traffic congestion. This is detrimental to both the

environment and people’s quality of life. For example, the air quality
index in Hanoi has reached dangerous levels so many times this year,
leading to increased risks of developing respiratory diseases.

What about the future?

Well, I can see some positive changes in people’s attitude towards

public transport and hopefully, they would take concrete actions to
reduce their private vehicle use. Vietnamese people are starting to use
buses more often. I believe they would be willing to give up the
comfort of their own vehicles and choose public transport if more
modern buses are added and new metros or subways systems come
into operation.

Is it convenient to commute between home and work in your country?

Well I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, there are
several convenient ways to commute such as driving, taking buses,
riding motorbikes or using a Hi-tech ride-hailing service. However,
commuting can be extremely time-consuming and unpleasant due
constant traffic congestion in city centres where most of the
businesses and organisations are based. I guess this is a common
issue across the globe.

Are cars more popular nowadays than in the past? Why?

Yeah, it’s totally true. Due to higher income and improved standard of
living, more and more people in Vietnam are now able to afford their
own cars. Serious air pollution in major cities is also a contributing
factor. Car owners can enjoy ultimate freedom, convenience and
comfort as they aren’t exposed to dirt, toxic emissions and incessant
traffic noise. On top of that, cars are considered a symbol of economic
status which many people take great pride in. It is easy to see why
cars have become so appealing and widely preferred.

Will there be more cars in the future?

Well, while a handful of major cities around the world are striving to be
more bicycle-friendly, I believe developing countries will continue to
see a drastic increase in the number of cars on the roads. It’s hard for
local people to give up the comfort of their private vehicles unless
public transport infrastructure and air quality in these areas get
improved significantly.

How to reduce cars?

As I mentioned, it’s no easy task to persuade people to stop using

cars. The government should take bold actions to encourage them to
reduce their dependency on private vehicles. One possible solution is
to establish more car-free zones in urban areas. Another remedy is to
impose a high green tax on drivers, which might force people to cycle
or walk on a regular basis. Most importantly, the government should
make it a priority to advance the public transport system and alleviate
overcrowding problems in big cities.

9. A FAMOUS SPORTSPERSON P3 SPORT

What kinds of sports do Vietnamese people like?

I’d say that Vietnamese people are generally passionate fans of sports
and exercise. The most popular one is football, definitely. Local
people, old and young, always go wild when our national team wins an
international match. They will gather in huge crowds, driving around,
waving our national flags and blocking off the streets. Apart from
football, tennis and badminton are widely played in urban and rural
areas alike.

Do girls and boys play the same sports in your country?

Well, they do share certain types of sport in common but generally,

they tend to prefer different games due to ingrained gender
stereotypes. Boys often choose highly competitive and physically
demanding sports such as football or basketball while girls love
moderate types such as figure skating, yoga or swimming.
What qualities should an athlete have?

Without a doubt, it depends on each kind of sport, but I suppose the

most crucial one is fitness or agility. If athletes aren’t in excellent
health, both physically and mentally, then it would be tough for them
to deliver exceptional performances. Besides, honesty is also highly
valued in professional sports where fairness is given priority and
doping or any other forms of cheating is strictly punished.

Do you think there are many famous athletes in Vietnam? In which

fields & Why?

I don’t think so. Although our country has a great number of

accomplished sportsmen and sportswomen, only a few footballers
have become celebrities. This is mainly because this sport is
considered the king of all sports in Vietnam and our victory at an
international game may become a national sensation. The public tend
to pay little attention to other sports teams even

though they have just won a gold medal at the Summer Olympic
Games. Another possible cause of this is probably the unequal air time
of sport shows in favour of football.

What can people do to become a sports superstar/ a top athlete?

I’d say that the most common way to become a prominent sports star
is to win a high prize in a globally renowned sporting event such as the
Olympics, the World Cup or the Wimbledon. To reach that pinnacle of
their career, athletes must go through rigorous training and push their
own boundaries. As well as this, they should also keep their profile or
public image clean by becoming a good role model for their fans and
steer away from scandals.

10. A CREATIVE PERSON WHOSE WORK YOU ADMIRE P3

CREATIVITY

Do you think you are a creative person?

I do have a flair for story writing and drawing but I've never seen
myself as a particularly creative person. I’d rather say that I have an
imaginative mind.

Do you think creativity is important?

Absolutely, it plays a crucial role in the development of human

civilisations. Without dreams and creative thinking, all masterpieces
like the Mona Lisa or Egyption pyramids, and even a vast number of
technological breakthroughs would be non-existent. There is no doubt
that all man- made products such as clothes, TVs, airplanes and the
Internet have been created first as visualisations in an inventive mind.
Creative ability is also a precious asset in the workplace. It enables
people to generate novel ideas and approach complex tasks in unique,
productive and exciting ways.
How can children develop their creative abilities?

Well, while some are born creative, I believe creativity can be learned
and sharpened over time. This ability is closely linked to art so I
suppose learning subjects like literature, painting, paper cutting or
drama might do wonders for kids’ creative thinking development.
Additionally, leisure activities help boost their mental health, which in
turn can improve their innovative capability significantly. Spending
time in nature, exploring the world and playing outdoors are among
the most rewarding and spontaneous ways to foster kids’ creativity.

What kinds of jobs require creative skills?

I’d say that the most popular jobs for creative people are probably
those directly related to art such as designer, artist, writer and actor.
For example, in order to write an engrossing novel, the author must
spend hours per day to vividly visualise in their mind how their story
would develop. Another area that also requires a great deal of
inventiveness is probably science.

Although this field is primarily based on data and facts, creativity is

needed for scientists to

break from conventions, which could lay the foundation for

innovations and new discoveries.

Do you think creative person should be paid more? (nếu bạn thấy khó
hiểu cứ nói giám khảo could you please clarify the question? …)
(Keyword: Yes, ….. Reasons: creativity is rare ….

Creativity is the beginning of everything…)

11. A GOOD SERVICE YOU RECEIVED P3 SERVICE

Do you think good service is important? What makes good customer

service?

What qualities should service staff have?

Do you think customer service in VN is now better than it used to be?

What kinds of businesses have good service in VN?

How can businesses in VN improve their customer service?

Is customer service important?

Absolutely. Satisfied customers contribute greatly to business

success in terms of both profit and brand awareness. When customers
are happy with a certain brand, they will keep buying it over and over
and even become loyal to it forever. What’s more, they might go an
extra mile to tell their family and friends about it, which is known as
word of mouth marketing. This enables companies to attract more
potential buyers and to save a great deal of advertising cost.
What makes good customer service?

I’d say that a high-quality service means providing customers with a

smooth and pleasant experience from pre-purchase to post-purchase
stage. Firstly, the business must answer all customers’ inquiries
promptly, clearly and truthfully. Added to that, they need to deliver the
right product and service up to their promised standards. Finally, they
have to handle customer complaints in a polite and constructive
manner by offering a satisfactory replacement or a refund if they’re at
fault.

What qualities should service staff have?

Well, it depends on each type of business but I suppose the most

crucial requirement for those working in service sectors is excellent
interpersonal skills. This ability helps them listen, understand and
effectively deal with even the most discerning (demanding) customers.

Besides, service staff must possess other essential traits such as

patience and attentiveness. This enables them to stay calm, keep
smiling and pay close attention to the smallest details, which is the key
to success in the service industry.

Do you think customer service in VN is now better than it used to be?

(Gợi ý keywords: Without a doubt, it has improved significantly over

the last decades. Service staff these days tend to be more professional
and courteous than they used to be. This is mainly because employers
are increasingly aware of the paramount importance of impeccable
service in today's cut-throat market and have been investing in
employee training. However, there is still room for improvement. Many
businesses promise to put their customers first but in practice, they
are not fulfilling their responsibilities. For example, many locals cannot
get in touch with the service centre of their hi-tech gadgets’ providers/
waiting time too long / fail to handle complaints properly…; low cost
airlines such as… are notorious for lengthy delays… (chọn 1 vi du thôi
nhé)

What kinds of businesses have good service in VN?

Generally speaking, international businesses or long-established state

owned corporations tend to offer better service than those that are
fully domestic or newly-founded. The primary reasons for this is that
large corporations, especially multinational ones have far greater
resources to recruit only the most capable candidates and provide
them with rigorous training. Added to that, they have mastered the art
of serving customers after many years of operation. By contrast, small
firms owned by Vietnamese people usually have restricted budgets
and lack experience or know-how in dealing with customers.

How can businesses in VN improve their customer service?

That’s a tough one. Obviously I’m not a business expert but I suppose
the first step is to establish an outstanding internal culture. If all
employees are treated with respect and are fully aware of their
company’s mission and values, they are more likely to treat their
customers the same way and deliver an exceptional performance at
work.

12. A PLACE YOU VISITED ON HOLIDAY / VACATION P3 HOLIDAY -

TRAVEL DESTINATION

What are some popular attractions in your country?

I’m proud to say that Vietnam has a lot to offer international visitors.
For nature lovers and sightseeing fans, we have stunning beaches,
bays, lakes, caves as well as mountain landscapes. Halong Bay or Son
Doong Cave are well-known across the globe for their magnificent
settings. For those who are into culture, Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi
Minh city are the most fascinating places to explore a rich collection of
ancient houses and historical monuments.

Do young and old people prefer to go to different destinations on their

holidays?

Without a doubt, their preferences are completely different from each

other. The most noticeable difference might be that young people
usually seek adventure, glamour and novelty. They tend to either travel
off the beaten track or choose trendy places that have been featured in
blockbuster movies. They also adore vibrant cities with amazing
nightlife. In contrast, older people often look for opportunities to calm
their mind and discover their inner world. That’s why older travellers
tend to pick up relaxing destinations or remote areas with fabulous
sceneries to stay away from the crowd.

How do people learn about the destinations they want to visit?

Well, in this digital age, there are various ways to obtain insightful
knowledge about a destination, including travel guidebooks, TV
programmes, YouTube channels and the Internet. People can now gain
valuable insights into another nation without actually setting foot on it.
They might just type a keyword into the Google search box and a
wealth of information can be

accessed for free. And watching images and video clips online could
be almost as exhilarating as

travelling in real life.

Is it important to make travel plans in advance?

Absolutely. Planning a trip in advance offers a ton of benefits. To begin

with, holiday goers are more likely to select the right destinations and
the finest services for their vacations if they invest time in gathering
valuable information beforehand. Additionally, a detailed plan enables
them enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey as they have anticipated
all possible scenarios like delays or unfavourable weather, and have
alternatives in place already.
13. A BUSINESSPERSON P3 – BUSINESS

If you had the chance of running your own business, what would it be?
(câu hỏi phụ part 2)

Well, I've always wanted to embark on a career in education so my first

start-up would definitely be in this field.

Do Vietnamese people like to work for a company or run their own

business?

Generally speaking, most people in Vietnam would love to run their

own business but they are unwilling to take risk. Starting a business
and making it big is no easy task and obviously is not for those who
are faint-hearted or easy to give up. In practice, the majority of
Vietnamese people usually choose the other way that is more stable
and secure – working for a company or an organisation that is believed
to have a promising future.

Why do people want to run their own business?

Without a doubt, owning a lucrative business is a perennial dream for

many because it offers a ton of amazing benefits. Firstly, business
owners can enjoy the ultimate freedom to make decisions and lead
their teams in whatever way they desire. This means that they might
have a greater sense of personal fulfillment than others. Being able to
pursue a passion and turn it into a thriving business is challenging but
at the same time extremely rewarding. Another significant benefit is
money of course. Owners are entitled to all or a substantial share of
the profit their company makes. With financial freedom, they can lead a
happier and more fulfilling life.

What qualities should business owners have?

Unquestionably, it depends on each type of business but I suppose the

most crucial quality of a great business leader is vision. Shrewd
entrepreneurs have a vivid picture of how their business should be in
the far future and inspire themselves as well as their employees to
achieve that vision. They lead by example and encourage others to
realise their full potential. Apart from this, they possess impeccable
interpersonal skills. I mean they know how to connect people together
in a team and create an open, supportive and productive working
environment.

Are leaders born or made?

Well, I believe both inherent traits and accumulated experiences exert

equal influences on leadership ability. For example, many people are
born with a proactive personality. They are willing to take substantial
risks and responsibilities, which naturally positions them for the
leading role in any organization. However, there is also a myriad of
essential qualities that leaders can acquire through practice such as
interpersonal skills and strategic planning skill. Overall, it’s really hard
to tell whether they are born or made.
What factors are important to the success of a business?

That’s a tough question. Obviously, I’m not a business guru but I can
guess that probably a great leader and an efficient team are the key to
success in the world of business. The leader is ultimately responsible
for what kind of product and service the company offers, so if he or
she has a poor vision or limited awareness of customer demands, it’s
very likely that they’ll fail to compete on the market. Likewise, a strong
team with diverse talents and perspectives also plays a pivotal role
because without them, no business dreams could become a reality.
(without ...could = câu điều kiện loại 2)

14. A TIME YOU WERE FRIENDLY TO SOMEONE YOU DON’T LIKE

P3 FRIENDLY

In what situation do people have to be friendly?

Generally speaking, people should be amiable all the time, especially

in social and professional situations. For example, children need to be
kind to their peers, their teachers and school staff. As for adults, they
are expected to be friendly to their colleagues, customers and
partners. This would help build a supportive and motivational work
environment, and strengthen business coorperation.

What is the difference between being friendly and being polite?

That’s an interesting one. The way I see it, friendliness tends to be

associated with character or personality while politeness is directly
proportional to their level of education. To be more specific, when
people are friendly, they tend to be approached easily. They treat
others like friends and make them feel at ease. By contrast, being
polite mean treating others with respect and discretion. All in all, I
believe people can be educated to be courteous but most people are
friendly by nature.

What kinds of people are usually friendly?

I’d say that those who are kind-hearted, laid-back and outgoing tend to
be friendly and approachable. This is mainly because they sincerely
care about others or simply love being surrounded by people.

Why are people friendly with those they don’t like?

Well, without a doubt, there are different reasons or motives for doing
so but I suppose the most common one is courtesy. Those who are
well-mannered and mature enough know how to act so that they don't
embarrass themselves or humiliate others even if they can’t stand
those people. I mean they are just being amiable out of politeness.
Additionally, some artful
people may try to suppress their hard feelings and pretend to be
agreeable to someone in order to take advantage of that person or
their relationships.

Do you think people now are friendlier than they were in the past?

Well, that’s true to some extent. The world is becoming more and more
open, so are people from different countries across the globe. We’ve
become interconnected and interdependent on each other more than
ever, so friendship and partnership are increasingly valued. Since
World War II, there has been no such catastrophic event on a global
scale. However, if we look closer, it’s fair to say that people, especially
neighbours are becoming less friendly to each other. For instance,
several decades ago, people in Vietnam used to live in open houses
with no fences or gates. They could easily drop by others’ houses and
talk to them whenever they felt like. But these days, most families are
building higher walls to isolate themselves from their neighbours. This
is mainly due to privacy issues, which seem plausible and problematic
at the same time.

Why are some people always friendly to others?

Well, there could be several possible explanations but I suppose the

primary reason is that they have an easy-going temperament.
Probably, they might have inherited the trait from their parents or it
just runs in their family. As well as this, there are also people who
have trained themselves to have a pleasant personality, simply
because their job demands that or because they’ve recognised the
enormous benefits of being calm and amiable all the time.

15. A PERSON SOLVED A PROBLEM SMARTLY P3 – SMART

Do you think people are born smart or they learn to become smart?

That’s a tough question. Without a doubt, there are prodigies like

Mozart who display an incredible level of intelligence and innate gifts
at a very young age. However, I’m inclined to believe that people can
learn to become smarter. Children, for instance, are vulnerable to
tricks or scams because they’re naive but as they get older, they tend
to become shrewd enough to know instantly if something sounds
fishy. This is mainly because they’ve learned their lessons.

How can children develop their intelligence?

Of course, it depends on each child but I suppose the most achievable

method is through playing. Games such as sudoku, chess and
monopoly can not only help children relax but also sharpen their
mental abilities, including critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Additionally, formal learning, especially active learning and reflective

learning might also contribute significantly to kids’ intellectual and
emotional intelligence growth.
Why are some people well-rounded while others are good at only one
thing?

That’s an interesting one. Obviously I’m not an education expert but I

guess the underlying reason is the amount of practice. It’s likely that
people who are accomplished at many skills or areas have devoted
thousands of hours to practicing each of them. They totally deserve
their remarkable accomplishments. Some people, in contrast, can only
master one skill or become

an expert in one area because they dedicate most of their time to it or

simply their time management skill isn’t as effective as that of their
high-achieving peers.

Do you think smart people are happier?

Oh well, I tend to have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand,
those with a sharp mind are more likely to succeed and thus be able to
lead a more fulfilling life than others. When they are financially secure,
they don't have to work like beavers every single day. Instead, they
can invest time and money in their passions or hobbies, and thus have
a more contented life. However, remarkably intelligent individuals tend
to isolate themselves or be isolated by others, so they might feel
lonely and stressed at times.

16. AN INTERESTING BOOK P3- BOOK - READING

What kinds of books are popular in Vietnam?

Do you think people now read more than they did in the past? Who do
you think read more often? young people or old people? Do people
prefer reading a book or a film based on that book?

Do you think children who read a lot will be more successful?

Is reading now more popular than in the past?

That’s an interesting one. On the one hand, as living conditions have

improved greatly, many people in Vietnam now have enough
disposable income to afford reading as a leisure pursuit. Indeed, there
have been far more bookstores and a much broader range of books
available, catering to this rapidly growing demand. On the other hand,
the appeal of reading seems to have declined a bit among teenagers
who favour their fancy gadgets over books. So overall, it’s hard for me
to give a definite answer to this question.

What kinds of books are popular in Vietnam?

Well, as I mentioned there is a wide range of books that are preferred

in Vietnam. Old readers are huge fans of historical books and
autobiographies. Probably, they are more fascinated by the bygone era
than their young counterparts. Young readers, on the other hand, tend
to be captivated by self-help books and novels, especially romance or
science-fiction stories.
Particularly, business books have been increasingly sought after in
Vietnam as running a start- up has been on trend among local youth
for years.

Who do you think read more? young people or old people?

Well, I’d say that the young, especially university students and young
professionals read far more often than older adults. The most obvious
reason is that there has been a broader range of engrossing books
catering to them than those targeted at aged readers. Educational
books, for example, are now colourfully illustrated and meticulously
designed to capture the attention of children. Older adults, by contrast,
tend to have less disposable income and spare time to pursue any
hobbies at all. With a family to take care of, they seem to have too
much on their

shoulder. As for elderly people, they might be too frail or their eye
conditions wouldn’t allow them to read frequently.

Do people prefer reading a book or a film based on that book?

That’s an intriguing question! My personal thinking is that it really

depends on how well the film is directed and produced. I mean if the
adaptation manages to retain the original thrill and nuanced messages
of the book, then the movie will be warmly welcomed. If, however, it
fails to do so, passionate fans of the book would feel disappointed and
even get furious over such a lousy production.

(*More ideas: books can stimulate and fuel imagination / book-to-

movie adaptations: more vivid, easier to follow ...might be more
captivating thanks to talented actors & mesmerising soundtracks.
However, films are restricted by a time frame => might fail to respect
the original stories of the book.)

Do you think children who read a lot will be more successful?

Definitely. I guess you probably know the saying that today a reader,
tomorrow a leader. Children who read intensively from a very young
age will cultivate this healthy habit and carry it over into their
adulthood. As a result, they tend to be better-informed and wiser than
their nonreading counterparts. It has been scientifically proved that
reading can foster children’s cognitive and emotional development. In
fact, avid/ keen readers tend to display more advanced critical thinking
skills and a significantly higher level of interpersonal skills, which are
two major building blocks of success.

17. A CAFÉ YOU LIKE / YOU”VE BEEN TO P3- CAFÉ / SOCIAL

GATHERING

What kinds of people like to go to a café?

Well, it depends on each country but in Vietnam, it seems to me that

café fans include people from all walks of life. Most youngsters prefer
tastefully-designed cafes with cool settings and trendy foods and
beverages, like hamburgers, pastas and bubble tea. Older people, on
the other hand, are usually loyal customers of just one local shop that
has been around for a while. In terms of occupation, passionate fans of
major coffee chains like Highlands, Starbuck or The Coffee House are
mainly aspiring students and high-achieving professionals while those
with a humble income tend to favour lowkey stores or street stalls
where they can enjoy their favourite drinks and snacks while chilling
out in fresh, open air.

Why do young people like to hang out in coffee shops?

That’s an interesting one. The way I see it, a majority of teens and
twentysomethings don't visit a coffee shop because they are coffee
aficionados. They might just look for a vibrant place with a youthful
vibe to catch up with friends, hold a party or simply to take some
selfies to post on Facebook or Instagram. Undeniably, young people
tend to place a great emphasis on keeping up with the trends and
checking out a newly-opened cafe is absolutely one of those.

Do you think young people in VN visit coffee shops more often than
old people?

That’s a tough question. Let me think for a second. I’m just trying to
find a way to put it. Well, to some extent, that’s true. In major cities like
Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city, regular customers of large coffee chains
mainly include young people. However, you must know that these
stores are just the tip of an iceberg. There are thousands of little coffee
shops run by locals in back streets or alleys which are frequented by
older adults. So, I believe in Vietnam both young and old generations
love chilling out at a coffee shop.

Do Vietnamese people like drinking coffee?

Absolutely. You know, Vietnam is among the largest coffee exporters

in the world and our country also has a long-established coffee
culture. It’s fair to say that we are massive fans of this aromatic drink.
People of different ages and incomes consume it on a daily basis.
Western nations might take great pride in creating latte or cappuccino
but we also have our own signature recipes like egg coffee, coconut
coffee or strong brewed coffee with dense milk.

They’re all widely preferred by locals.

What are the differences between having parties at a restaurant and at

home?

Without a doubt, there are a couple of differences but I suppose the

main ones are convenience and cost. When people throw a party at a
restaurant or a café, there’s no need for them to worry about foods,
drinks, tables, cutlery and decorations, stuff like that. In other words,
they don’t have to get stressed over preparation work. By contrast,
holding a social gathering or a family getogether at home can be
extremely time-consuming and effort-consuming, especially the
elaborate preparation of various kinds of dishes. Of course, partying at
home is far more favourable in terms of cost saving and intimacy.
Nowhere is like home, you know.

Do Vietnamese people often invite friends to their home for a party?

The way I see it, Vietnamese people do favour celebrating at home

over at a restaurant. This is mainly because generally the standard of
living in Vietnam is still relatively low. Dining out regularly, especially
at a gourmet restaurant is still considered a luxury that only a few can
afford. On top of that, local people do place a great emphasis on home-
cooked foods as a way to show their gratitude and hospitality to their
guests.

What kinds of events are often organised at home in Vietnam? (gợi ý:

Unquestionably, Vietnamese people do place a high value on social
gatherings and connections. There are countless reasons for us to
celebrate: birthday, homewarming, weddings and farewell parties…
These special occasions enable us to maintain close-knit relationships
with our

extended family, friends and even colleagues and business partners

…)

18. A TIME YOU GOT UP EARLY P3 – GETTING UP

What kinds of people often get up early?

Let me see. Well, I suppose most people like to sleep in, so those who
can resist that urge definitely have a compelling reason. Probably,
their jobs demand that they show up for work earlier than normal
business hours. For example, bus conductors who work early shifts or
street food vendors must get up at the crack of dawn to serve their
first customers of the day.

Another situation is when people have to depart early in the morning

for a flight or a train, obviously they can’t afford to be late.

Do you think old people get up earlier than young people?

Generally speaking, older adults tend to be early risers. This is mainly

because they naturally need less sleep and often go to bed earlier than
their young counterparts. Youngsters, on the other hand, often stay up
late working on urgent projects, cramming for exams or browsing
social media so they always try to sleep in to make up for that.

Why do some people find it easy to get up early? Why do some people
prefer to stay up late? (ideas câu trên)
Without a doubt, there could be several explanations but I suppose the
primary reason is circadian rhythms or biological factors. Some people
are inclined to do so because they find themselves more productive in
the early morning or late at night. Another possible explanation might
be their sleep patterns or habits. For example, a large number of
students become night owls as they get into the habit of leaving all
their assignments to the last minute and thus have to burn the
midnight oil to complete them on time.

Is getting up early important?

Well, for the most part, that’s true. As normal business hours are 9 to 5
so if people get up early, they might have ample time to make
themselves well-prepared for the day ahead and don’t need to rush
things. Especially if they have to arrive on time for a crucial
appointment or an early departure in the morning, then they have no
choice but to set an alarm and get out of bed as soon as they hear the
alarm.

Cau hoi band 8-9:

Does working the night shift affect one’s sleep pattern? Are there any
changes in their lifestyle? (become late risers or night owls, tend to be
active at night and sleep during the day…, no morning routine, skip
breakfast, ...)

Does that affect their mental health? Why? (might be deprived of social
interactions as most human activities are carried out from dawn to
dusk, not the other way round… As a result, they are likely to feel
isolated or depressed...)

19. A TIME YOU DID SOMETHING DIFFICULT P3 CHALLENGE TOPIC

Should children have challenges?

How can parents encourage children to take challenges? What

challenges do children face?

What kinds of jobs are difficult? What challenges is the world facing?
Who should be responsible for them?

Should children have challenges?

Definitely. Hardship makes people stronger I believe. If children have

an easy and indulgent life, they won’t be able to compete effectively in
the future. Even worse, they would become a dependent, lazy and
worthless individual. In contrast, young people who have confronted
some kinds of challenges and obstacles when growing up tend to
develop better problem – solving skills, critical thinking skills and
resilience. As a result, they are more likely to lead a fulfilling life.

What challenges do children face?

Well, I suppose most of them get stressed over their schoolwork.
Nowadays, most parents expect a lot from their children and push
them really hard so that they can obtain outstanding academic
achievements. This might put them under enormous pressure, leading
to sleep deprivation and other severe mental problems such as anxiety
and depression. Apart from this, young people are vulnerable to peer
pressure. They might become a victim of bullying or stress themselves
while trying to keep up with the trends.

What challenges is the world facing?

That’s a tough question really. To be honest I’ve never truly paid close
attention to international news or global concerns. Recently, I came
across several posts on social media mentioning climate change,
environmental pollution, medical crisis and economic downturn,
things like that so I guess they must be what humanity is struggling
with.

Who should be responsible for them?

I believe the governments, businesses and individuals should all have

a fair share of responsibilities in tackling these pressing problems. For
example, if policy makers can put together brilliant laws and
regulations on environmental protection but people fail to obey them
or aren’t willing to mitigate their carbon footprints, then there wouldn’t
be any

significant progress. Everyone is leaving an impact on the earth, so I

believe, without collective efforts, nothing could be fully addressed.

20. A TIME YOU FELT PROUD OF A FAMILY MEMBER P3 - PROUD

What makes parents proud of their children?

Well, it depends on their parenting style. Some might take great pride
in their child’s academic performance like getting high scores, winning
a competition or contest related to their study or getting admitted into
a prestigious university. Other parents, however, seem less concerned
over the marks their kids get at school. They tend to place a greater
emphasis on manner, ethics and attitude, and will be delighted if their
children are willing to lend others a hand.

How can children be encouraged?

I believe this can be done through setting a good example. Adults

should strive to accomplish their goals and become a role model for
children to follow. At home, parents need to spend time with them,
guide them and take great care of them. Instead of nagging and
scolding all the time,
they should try to find the strong points of their kids and be generous
with their compliments. At school, teachers should do the same to
support children in realizing their full potential.

Should children be rewarded for their achievements?

That’s an interesting one. Obviously, when kids perform well

academically and socially, their efforts should be appreciated and
giving a reward might be one way to do so. However, I believe, giving
material rewards, especially those of high value, too often could have
counterproductive effects. Kids might get into the habit of doing well
on a condition. For example, they would only work hard or help
another if they get concrete benefits in return. That mentality can be
detrimental to their overall development and their future.

What makes adults proud of themselves?

Of course, different people define accomplishment in completely

different ways. Those who chase after success and material
possessions are inclined to be pleased with fancy houses and cars
they own. Others, however, tend to have high self esteem because
they know they are living a life of meanings by helping others, building
a happy family or raising well-rounded children. Overall, as long as
people have a goal in life and manage to accomplish it, they’ll feel a
sense of fulfilment and pride.

21. A DIFFICULT SKILL YOU LEARNED P3 - SKILL

What kinds of skills do children need to learn?

Do you think young people can learn new skills faster than old people?
Is it easier to learn new skills now than in the past?

Which skills will be important in the future? How can people learn new
skills?

Are teachers important to people in learning new skills?

Do you think young people can learn new skills faster than old people?

The way I see it, older adults tend to have more difficulties learning
new skills than younger ones. Probably, the primary reason for this is
that they have to bear a greater burden than their young counterparts.
Adults need to work to support themselves and their families, and
juggling work, family and education at the same time appears to be
extremely stressful and challenging. Added to that, as people get
older, their mind might not be as sharp as it used to, making it hard for
them to think critically and retain what they learn.
What do you think is the most important practical skill? Why?

I’d say that cooking is the first skill people need to acquire. It’s a
crucial skill for anyone who wishes to live on their own. Knowing how
to cook helps individuals become more independent

and self-reliant. On top of that, being able to feed themselves at home

instead of eating out also

means that they can keep a healthier diet and save a great deal of
money.

Do you think people learn a new skill because they enjoy/ like it?

Yeah, I do think so. While there are skills people can’t live without,
several other skills are learnt just out of interest such as painting,
dancing and playing a guitar. They help make life more balanced,
fascinating and worth living.

What kinds of skills did people learn in the past?

Well, I’d say that long ago, people would mainly focus on acquiring
essential life skills, including cooking, sewing, carpentry, constructing
a house and so on. At schools, they learnt how to read, write and
calculate, sort of basic stuff. Several practical skills in the past seem
irrelevant now as they can be performed faster and more effectively by
machines.

Which skills will be important in the future?

That’s a tough question. My mind just went blank. Let me think for a
second. Well, I believe creative skills and interpersonal skills would be
valued more and thus be in high demand in the next decades. This is
mainly because robots and machines are becoming incredibly
intelligent and they would be able to replace humans in handling all
kinds of work involving technical or analytical skills. However, they
haven’t been able to outperform us in areas that require a high level of
creativity and emotional intelligence so I suppose young generations
should focus on these unique domains.

Are skills in the past more difficult to learn than today’s skills?
Well, I’m not sure. I don’t have strong feelings one way or the other. On
the one hand, old- fashioned skills such as bread making, gardening or
knitting tend to take a lot of manual effort and countless hours of
practice. On the other hand, modern skills like computer programming
or video editing are equally time-consuming and can be even more
nerve-wracking. Overall, it’s really hard to tell which ones are more
daunting to master.

What skills should children learn before school? (Cấu trúc liệt kê
Besides): Life skills: eating & table manners, how to wear clothes,
daily routines to take care of themselves: brushing teeth and taking a
shower…. Besides, survival skills related to food, water and shelter as
well as social skills are also crucial for preschoolers' education…

What’s the difference between the roles of teachers and parents in

education? (nhớ dùng so sánh)

Teachers: professionally trained for formal education: transmit

knowledge & experience + discipline. Parents -> family education:
more suitable to teach moral values, provide financial and emotional
support, give advice, set a good example

How do adults learn a new skill? (Cấu trúc Liệt kê: The most common
way might be to enroll in a relevant course … Another highly effective
method could be to …: the Internet, learn from friends or learn by
themselves. For instance, …

Is the Internet good for learning new skills? (Cấu trúc However:
advantages + disadvantages)

Advantages: Accessible anywhere, anytime. Online video tutorials are

handy and easy to follow. However, … drawbacks: information might
be unreliable or outdated/ not as effective as hands- on learning. For
example, learning how to paint or how to make a cake on the Internet
may not be as fascinating as joining a real painting or a cooking class.

22. A TIME YOU MOVED TO A NEW HOME/ SCHOOL P3 MOVE HOME

Why do people move to a new home? (advantages)

Without a doubt, there could be several reasons for this but I suppose
most people relocate because they’re in search of better employment
or education opportunities. For instance, when people get promoted or
transferred to another business branch in a distant city or country,
they have no choice but to find a new place to reside. Another
explanation might be because people are unhappy with their current
home or neighbourhood, or simply because they’re seeking a change
to make their life more varied and exciting. Moving to a better place
can advance their living conditions and allow them to lead a more
fulfilling life.

What problems do people face when moving to a new place?

(disadvantages)

Of course, relocating is not always a smooth and pleasant experience,

especially when the relocation is required and people have no choice.
They might struggle to get accustomed to an unfamiliar environment
and new ways of life, which may lead to unnecessary stress and
anxiety. Even worse, if the new place is located in underdeveloped or
disadvantaged areas, their standard of living will be adversely
affected. Another unforeseeable scenario is that they may find
themselves living next door to an annoying neighbour or be unable to
fit in the local community.

How can they solve these problems?

That’s a tough question. Well, I’ve never been in such situations but I
guess people should try to adapt to their new environment, even just
for a short while. If they can’t change their circumstance, they should
focus on adjusting their attitude and maintain a positive outlook in life.
Then they will be able to figure out a way to get out of their current
struggle by moving to a more liveable city they have been dreaming of.

Is it good to move house frequently? Why?

From my perspective, moving home too often doesn’t sound like a

great idea. To begin with, people, especially kids would have a hard
time making and maintaining any supportive friends. Besides,
constant changes might lead to an enormous amount of insecurity,
stress, anxiety and depression, which takes a toll on their mental well-
being. Finally, relocating is time-consuming and costly, so obviously
moving home frequently is not financially wise.
23. A TIME YOU GAVE ADVICE TO OTHERS (đề quý 1- gộp đề a
difficult decision, đổi thành khuyên bạn của mình...)

P3- ADVICE

When do people need advice?

What are some qualities of people who give good advice? What do you
think about asking too many people for advice ? Should people ask
strangers online for advice?

What should people do before giving advice?

When do people need advice?

Without a doubt, most people have to seek advice at some point in

their lives, but I suppose the most common situation is when they are
struggling with a tough decision. Like for instance when they’re
unsure of which university to attend or what career to pursue, then it
would be best for them to ask for guidance from experienced people.
Another possible scenario might be when they have to perform a
daunting or unfamiliar task. For example, when people are starting
their first business, I believe they would need a mentor or even seek
professional advice from a consulting service.

What are some qualities of people who give good advice?

Of course, different people have different criteria for a reliable mentor

or advisor. From my perspective, the most crucial quality is that they
must be an expert in the field they are giving advice on. Without
tremendous wisdom and expertise, they might come up with
unrealistic or irrelevant solutions, which is obviously undesirable for
those seeking help. (mệnh đề rút gọn V- ing). Another essential trait to
look for is honesty. If they are untrustworthy, then it wouldn’t be wise
to turn to them for advice in the first place.

What do you think about asking too many people for advice ?

That’s an interesting one. The way I see it, it’s unwise to seek advice
from too many people, especially those who have no practical
experience in that area. People with different personalities and ways of
thinking might approach a problem from contradicting perspectives
and thus offer conflicting advice. This may exacerbate the dilemma of
advice seekers. Too many cooks spoil the broth you know.

Should people ask strangers online for advice?

Well, it depends on each situation. For instance, when people are

considering purchasing a household appliance but they have no tech-
savvy friends, it might be a good idea to join a relevant forum online
and ask strangers for suggestions or recommendations. However, for
advice related to private matters like relationships or a mental
struggle, I believe it’s best to turn to their family or a professional
service for help. Seeking advice from random people on such critical
issues is too dangerous you know.

What should people do before giving advice?

I suppose the hardest part of giving advice is probably the ability to

remain objective and honest. You know, 9 times out of 10, people turn
to their family or friends for guidance, and this might lead to biased
opinions. For example when parents instruct their children on career
choice, they tend to force their own will on their kids and might push
them into a dead- end job. Another point I should add is that some
people are scared of losing face when they have to admit their
ignorance and may end up giving poor advice. So the bottom line is
that people should be clear whether they are in a proper position to
give advice and try to put themselves in the shoes of those they’re
going to help.

Are parents or friends better at giving advice?

I’d say that it depends on what kinds of advice people are seeking. For
those related to study or career, I believe parents or teachers are in a
better position to give more relevant and valuable counseling. This is
mainly because they know their children or students inside out, both
their talents and aspirations. However, when it comes to fashion or
lifestyle, I mean stuff to keep up with the trends, friends might offer
more brilliant and actionable ideas.

Are students in Vietnam clear about their careers from the beginning?

Unfortunately, no. Most students in Vietnam have no idea what they

are going to do in the future even when they’ve made their way to
college or university. This is possibly due to the absence of career
orientation programs in middle and high school curriculums.

Who is better to give children advice on their future career? Parents or

teachers?

I’d say that teachers seem to be in a better position to offer career

advice. While parents spend more time on a personal level with
children, they might not be updated on the future job market and might
push their kids into a dead-end job. Teachers tend to be more
insightful and professionally trained, so their advice would probably
be more relevant.

In your country, what kinds of advice do parents usually give their

children?

Well, there is a ton of advice that children in Vietnam usually receive

from their parents. The most common ones are what to wear, whom to
be friends with, which schools to attend, what subjects to choose and
who to love and marry. Vietnamese parents do have a substantial
influence on their kids.

Which areas do you think would be risky for parents to give advice on?
Well, as I mentioned it would be risky for parents to advise their kids
on job and career stuff. They might not have sufficient knowledge and
experience in a wide range of disciplines or lack up-to-date information
of what kinds of work are going to be in high demand. Also they tend
to force their own will and preference on their children, which is
usually undesirable and counter-productive.

Do you think teenagers like to listen to their parents’ advice?

I don't think so. Most teens are inclined to argue with their parents
frequently and often ignore their advice or just unwillingly take it.
Undeniably, adolescence is a tough period for children.

Although their body and mind have not fully developed, teenagers
always assume they‘ve already grown up and try to act as an
independent adult. This is just a way to assert themselves.

24. SOMETHING YOU’RE INTERESTED TO LEARN (gộp đề A Talent -

Singing) P3 - LEARNING

Is it difficult for adults to continue learning?

Without a doubt, adult learners tend to have more difficulties than

younger ones. Probably, the primary reason for this is that they have
to bear a greater burden than their young counterparts. Adults need to
work to support themselves and their families, and juggling work,
family and education at the same time appears to be extremely
stressful and demanding.

Added to that, as people get older, their mind might not be as sharp as
it used to, making it hard for them to think critically and retain what
they learn.

How has the education system in Vietnam changed (now and in the
past)?

Of course, there have been massive changes in Vietnam’s schooling

system. Probably, the most significant improvement is the
participation of private companies and organisations, which has
enabled local students to access more advanced learning facilities and
services. Another major change might be the switch of focus from rote
learning to active and interactive learning. This has encouraged
students to think independently and obtain more stimulating
experience at school rather than the tedious theoretical knowledge
previous generations used to get.

Is it the government’s responsibility to encourage people to learn?

That’s an interesting one. The way I see it, although the government
has an active role to play in encouraging lifetime learning, individuals
should take full responsibilities for their own academic journeys. While
governments’ funding and scholarship programs are crucial for less
privileged children, each citizen should strive to overcome their own
adversity and get a decent education. The Internet has opened vast
opportunities for people from all walks of life to keep learning almost
for free.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of distance learning?

Well, the most significant benefit of online learning or remote learning

is convenience. Students are able to access the training whenever they
want and learn at their own pace. Added to that, they are less likely to
get distracted than in traditional classes. However, this system lacks
some essential ingredients, like the motivation of human contact in the
classroom. Without real interactions with teachers and classmates,
learners may lose enthusiasm over time, possibly resulting in poor
performance. On top of that, online learning courses and materials
tend to be fixed and rigid. I mean, they cannot be revised or modified
immediately to cater to the special needs of students.

25. A FAMOUS PERSON (gộp SINGER/ ATHLETE )

P3 - FAMOUS

What kinds of people are famous in your country?

Do you think the media is paying too much attention to famous people
and why? Do you think famous people need to be good at their field?

Is there any difference in the way people become famous now and in
the past?

(xem kĩ topic privacy right of famous people mục MEDIA sách writing
task 2)

Should the privacy of famous people be respected? (yes, it’s a right

protected by laws…)

That’s a tough one. Without a doubt, their privacy shouldn’t be

invaded. Individuals have the right to their private life and this is
protected by laws. Celebrities are just like all other normal citizens
who can keep their personal matters to themselves. Additionally, being
followed by paparazzi and fans all the time or seeing their private
photos published and exposed to millions of people who are complete
strangers might put them at risk of developing depression. For
instance, several Korean aspiring actors and singers have committed
suicide because they couldn’t cope with pressure from the public
concerning the way they should lead their life.
Why do people want to be famous? (be in the spotlight/ be the centre
of attention/ wealth / power…)

Well, there are a couple of reasons but I suppose the principal one is
wealth. Fame and reputation enable people to make a fortune and
afford an affluent lifestyle with their obscene salaries and income from
product sponsorship and event attendance. For example, a renowned
actor may be paid millions of dollars for a single movie, and this far
exceeds the lifetime earning of an average individual. Another major
reason might be the craving for attention. Some people just love being
in the spotlight or the centre of attention as they seek approval and
validation from others. Being admired or liked by thousands of people
means a lot to them.

Are there any differences in the way people become famous now and
in the past?

Well in the past, people used to be admired for their outstanding

talents and achievements. These days, however, any individual can
become popular on social media if they consistently show off their
beauty or wealth. Some with glamour or a charismatic personality
might become a key opinion leader (KOL) and attract an enormous fan
base even if they aren’t talented singers or actors.

What do you think about becoming famous by scandals? (I think this is

abhorrent, ...might exert a negative influence on the young
generation: ...antisocial behaviours..)

Why do the media pay attention to the private life of celebrities? (coz
the majority of their audiences are keen on such news => increased
viewership equates larger profits…)

Why do some media publish fake news of famous people? (attract

viewers & boost publicity)

Why do celebrities earn more money than ordinary people?

What an interesting question! There could be several reasons but the

most obvious one is that they have tremendous influence on their fans
and followers or to put it simply they have a strong personal brand.
Fame can bring them numerous sources of earnings from product
endorsements

to event presence. While some are famous for the wrong reason, I have
to admit many of them have worked extremely hard to reach where
they are now and they totally deserve that unbelievably high level of
income.

Is it important for children to have a role model?

Definitely, when children have someone to look up to, they might

become more resilient, confident and motivated. Role models are a
source of encouragement for them to improve themselves, work hard
and accomplish their goals. A life with a clear purpose to strive for is a
life worth living and this is critical for children in a world full of
confusion and chaos.

What type of people influence the young in your country?

Well I guess the most significant influencers on children these days

are parents, teachers and celebrities. Parents and teachers usually
guide young people on major decisions such as which schools to go
to and which career to pursue. Idols and celebrities in general can also
exert tremendous influence on youngsters. They might choose to
dress in a particular style or follow a weird hobby simply because their
idols are doing so.

Who do you think young people will be most influenced by in the

future?

Well, it’s hard to tell really. As young people tend to become bolder
and more independent from parents and teachers, probably
entrepreneurs and celebrities would have the greatest influence on
them. Also, cutting-edge technology is all the rage these days so
children might consider distinguished innovators or inventors as their
role models as well.

26. ENCOURAGEMENT

- Do you often encourage other people?

Definitely. In an increasingly competitive world, people have to
struggle with a lot of stuffs on a daily basis. They tend to get stressed
out more often and even might be unable to keep going. It’s therefore
essential to cheer them up and give them strength to reach their goals
and lead a happy life.

- Do you think children should be motivated to achieve

something?

Totally. It’s crucial for adults to provide youngsters with continuous

encouragement and inspiration. Young people tend to lose their
patience quickly and easily give up on their dreams. Without others’
motivation and support, it might be hard for them to achieve anything
significant in life.

- Who should be responsible for motivating children, parents or

teachers?

All of them I think. Children spend a lot of time at schools and teachers
might have tremendous influence on them. Through fascinating
lessons and stories, they seem in a better position to inspire the
young. Parents should also play an active role in motivating children
as they are able to interact with them on a deep, personal level and
thus know how to encourage them in the most effective way.

- Is it always necessary to set long term goals for children to

motivate them?

Well, setting long term objectives are important for everyone,

especially young people. Children love having fun and they tend to get
distracted easily. If they don’t have a meaningful goal to strive for, they
might just fool around or get addicted to video games. However, I
strongly believe parents or teachers should only give advice and let
their kids figure out what they want to accomplish in the future on their
own.

- Is it motivation or pressure on children?

That’s an interesting question. I think it depends on how motivation is

done. Warnings, scolding and punishment only put children under
unnecessary stress and consequently, they might perform poorly.
However, if parents keep praising, pushing their kids properly and
sometimes rewarding them for their major progress, I believe they can
eventually accomplish anything they set their mind to.

Is it important for employers to encourage their employees?

Absolutely. Motivating employees represents an indispensible part of
business management. When people are encouraged to take initiatives
and push their boundaries, they might come up with more innovative
ideas at work. This benefits both the business and its employees.
Rising to a challenge enables people to learn and grow, which in turn
contributes substantially to the sustainable development of a
company. Most important, motivated employees tend to achieve
greater accomplishments, and thus gain a deepr

sense of job satisfaction. They’re less likely to quit their job, meaning
that the business is able to retain talents instead of wasting money on
recruiting new staff.

27. MUSIC / SINGER

Do you think you are a good singer? (Extra question for part 2)

No. Though I’m a huge fan of singing, I have never been good at it. My
close friends say I sound like a dead mouse when singing. I believe
they tell the truth.

Do you think people can be trained to have a good singing voice?

I suppose so. Obviously, the most outstanding singers are born with a
great voice but I believe someone with a not-so-good voice can be
trained to become a decent singer. Some of my friends, for example,
are initially terrible at singing just like me but after a lot of karaoke
practice, their singing sounds quite pleasant now. Practice makes
perfect, you know.

Do you want to become a famous singer?

This sounds tempting but no. I’m quite a private person and can’t
handle too much attention or criticism. Moreover, I know it’s extremely
demanding to be able to make it big in the entertainment industry
these days. One must be great at singing, dancing and communicating
at the same time. Not to mention, he or she must have an attractive
appearance. I’m afraid I’m not qualified.

What is important for a song to become famous?

Well, I’m not a professional by any means but I guess first it should
have a beautiful melody. If it doesn’t sound pleasing to the ears of a
majority of people, then it will not become popular. Meaningful lyrics
are also essential for a song to touch people’s hearts. And above all,
marketing is the key. Without a creative and devoted marketing team,
no matter how beautiful a song is, it will never become trendy I believe.

What types of music are popular in your country? (Liệt kê: Vietnamese
ballad songs + pop music)

Is there any change in the taste of music of Vietnamese people (now &
in the past)? (So sánh: past: American & European music / Now: V –
pop & K-pop have become dominant)

Why do many young people like to go to music concerts? (Liệt kê

Reason: The most… + Another …) – giống live performance: meet their
idols in person / the vibrant / vigorous atmosphere there

Well, there could be several possible reasons for it. The way I see it,
the most obvious reason behind this might be that youngsters find it
more fascinating and special to attend live shows or concerts than
watching them on TV. For passionate fans, nothing can be compared
to seeing their idols in person and listening to their real voice. Another
major reason could be that when young people join a crowd of the
same interest, they often feel a sense of belonging This positive
energy and youthful vibe tend to make watching live performances
much more captivating, like a part of a glamorous urban lifestyle.

Do you think today's music concerts are suitable for old people? (liệt
kê reasons: No => pop music seems to be either too fast or too loud,
not appealing to the taste of older adults/ Additionally, dresses of
singers or dancers might be too sexy and revealing, too crowded…=>
health issues )

Do you think old people and young people like the same types of
music? Why? (cấu trúc so sánh: old people: melancholic Vietnamese
ballad songs; By contrast, young people: trendy, international pop
music & kpop)

Why do shopping malls often have background music? (Liệt kê

Besides: Help customers relax

+ Attract or exert an influence on their mind, leading to impulse buying

=> boost their sales & maximize their profit)
Should the government be responsible for developing art? (cấu trúc
However: cả government: subsidise – invest & individuals: place more
value & focus on art study at home at school…)

Do you think art can be an effective way to introduce a culture? (Yes,

Example: USA & Korea)

Definitely. Take American culture as an example. … Likewise, Korea

and its unique culture have also become well-known across the globe
thanks to the ubiquitous kpop and Korean soap opera, which have
been dominating the small screen in Asian nations.

In countries where art is developed, people tend to be happier. Do you

think so?

(Opinion + However: That’s true to some extent. Benefits of art: help

people relax => enhance mental health / However, it’s worth
mentioning that there is a range of other factors contributing to the
level of happiness in a certain nation: income, public facilities & social
welfare …)

PART 3 NEW TOPICS QUÝ 1 2022

CÁC BẠN XEM KĨ CẤU TRÚC TRẢ LỜI TỪNG DẠNG CÂU HỎI PART 3
TRONG SLIDE BÀI GIẢNG PART 3 ĐỂ LẤY CẤU TRÚC CÂU DẪN, TỪ
NỐI…VÀ CHÈN IDEAS + CHỦ NGỮ + CHIA ĐỘNG TỪ (nếu cần) … ĐỂ
TỰ XÂY DỰNG CÂU TRẢ LỜI HOÀN CHỈNH NHÉ (SLIDE TRONG
FOLDER SÁCH SPEAKING)

1. A toy you liked when you were a child How have children's toys
changed?

- Have more toys than they used to have … thanks to a higher

standard of living, most parents now allocate a greater budget to their
children’s needs

- Imported western toys are now more preferred than traditional

homemade toys such as… <= parents… too busy to create toys …

Do you think parents should buy more toys for children or spend more
time with them?

- More time : create toys & play together => strengthen family
bonds => a better understanding of their child => adopt an appropriate
parenting style => foster children’s healthy development => Expensive
toys cannot replace the genuine love of parents.

Do you think girls and boys prefer the same kinds of toys?

- Due to gender norms/ stereotypes: Boys’ toys: related to

fighting, construction and technology: guns & swords/ trucks/
superheroes/ robots. Girls’ toys: related to appearance: dolls, makeup,
jewelry …

- Gender-neutral toys: teddy bears

What factors are important in choosing toys?

- Quality & safety

- Age & Personal preferences

- Educational values

Do you think advertising can influence people’s choice of toys? How?

- Use favorite cartoon characters like the Superman to appeal to

children > pester their parents to buy

- Offer free gifts when buying a certain set of toys

- Make their toys collectible > buy all their collections

Do you think advertisements aimed at children should be banned?

- Yes. I do think so. Children cannot tell the differences between

commercials and real TV programs. They might suppose that they can
have anything they want.

- … Unaware of the fact that things cost money which their parents
must work hard to earn => become lazy and self-indulgent

2. A person you only met once and want to know more about How
do people make friends in Vietnam?

- Older people: through work and networking

- Young people: mainly online through social media

How has the way people make friends changed?

- In the past: …used to meet in person before establishing a

friendship => took a while and a high level of trust

- Today, … much easier and faster to make new friends (social

networking). Just create a virtual profile (a social media account) =>
easily find those who share common interests
=> just send them a friend request … convenient for making friends
across their national borders

On what occasions can people make new friends?

- Social events and public events: weddings, fairs, festivals,

parades, performances and concerts, community activities,
volunteering activities

Is it important for friends to have the same hobbies and interests?

- Friends should have at least a common interest:

- have something to talk about when they are together

- Can easily understand and bond with each other, less likely to
argue

- Their friendship might last longer

- However, friends don't have to be the same coz they also need to
learn from each other

What are some qualities of true (good) friends?

- Caring: A good listening ability (a shoulder to cry on)

- Supportive: be there (show up) for each other through thick and
thin

- Honest: no friendship could last without trust

3. An ambition you haven’t achieved

What kinds of ambitions do young people usually have?

- Fame (become a celebrity)

- Achieve outstanding accomplishments such as winning a gold

medal at the Olympic Games …

- Power (become a leader)

- Wealth (run a thriving business)

Why are some people more ambitious than others?

- They are born to be ambitious

- They are encouraged to obtain great achievements from a very

young age

- They have a humble family background => have a strong drive

for success in order to advance their lives
Why do some people not have any ambitions?

- They are unambitious by nature

- They are well-provided for as their families are insanely rich =>
no need to strive for anything

Do you think being ambitious is good?

- Yes, I would say so. Without a strong desire and determination to

succeed, people would easily give up and not achieve anything
significant => there would be no social progress

- If all employees in a company are unambitious, it could not

survive in this increasingly competitive world and thus go bankrupt

- However it’s unhealthy to be too ambitious. High-achievers and

go-getters might put themselves under enormous pressure to
constantly outperform others, leading to

depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses. What’s more, in order

to achieve great things, people need to sacrifice a great deal of time
and effort, resulting in an unhealthy work/life balance.

Do you think children under 10 should have ambitions? Should

parents change their children's ambitions?

- That’s an intriguing question. I would say yes. Younger children

should also be encouraged to strive for excellence => form a habit =>
reach their full potential and become the best version of themselves
when they grow up => be of immense benefits to society.

- However, parents should only encourage them to have a dream

and consistently work on it rather than interfere or force them to
become ambitious and successful, like being top of their class. Little
children can’t handle such huge pressure and consequently might
suffer from severe depression or anxiety

How can parents encourage children to have dreams?

- Set a good example for them: parents should go after their

dreams themselves

- Read books or watch educational cartoons or movies about great

personalities such as Mozart, Albert Einstein or Isaac Newton

Is there any difference between children's ambitions and those of

grown-ups?

- (So sánh: Probably, the most significant distinction is that:

Children: become whatever they like: superhero, prince, princess...
their ambitions might change as they grow up/ Adults: more realistic &
materialistic or have no ambitions at all)

How can people balance work and life?

- Manage their time wisely / allocate enough time for themselves

and their family instead of devoting all day to their professional life
- Improve their skills and broaden their horizons to work more
effectively and efficiently

=> no need to work overtime

- Have at least one hobby or pastime=> relieve work-related stress

4. Something you can’t live without (not phone/ laptop) What kinds
of items are extremely important to people?

- Indispensable items include things that they use frequently in

their daily life and at work, including home equipment and digital
gadgets. In this day and age, computers, smartphones and the Internet
have become an integral part of people’s lives.

- Precious belongings with a high monetary or spiritual value:

jewelry, gifts, trophies and awards, collected items based on their
interest: books, stamps, coins and toys

Why do young people like new things?

- Love novelty and difference => companies constantly add new

values or features to improve their products. Ex: Iphone/ Samsung
smartphones

- Due to peer pressure : keep up with the latest trends in fashion

and technology

- Show their economic status and assert themselves , can afford

the latest and usually most expensive products

Do you think the way people buy things is affected?

- I would say so.

- These days, celebrities and influencers on social media can exert

enormous influence on their fans’ shopping behaviors => buy certain
products to emulate their idols

- Companies use advertising and celebrity endorsement to

manipulate people

What factors can influence the way people buy new things?

- Peer pressure

- Famous people and social media

- Advertisement

Why do some grown-ups not want to throw old items away?

- Might use them again => don't have to buy a new one => Save a
great deal of money
- Old stuff such as gifts and souvenirs might be associated with a
significant meaning: memories of someone who is dear to their heart
or amazing experiences they don’t want to forget

- Collectible items, especially antiques, tend to become more

valuable over time

5. A time you repaired a broken item in your home

Do you think the quality of today’s products are worse than those in
the past?

- It depends on each type of product

- Fancy gadgets seem less durable but more versatile I mean

multifunctional thanks to advanced technology

- Fast fashion clothes made by machine are obviously of inferior

quality compared to those made by hand in the past

What kinds of people often prefer to repair things by themselves?

- Old people who are more experienced than the young and tend to
save money rather than spend it unwisely

- Those who are curious and innovative: consider repairing as a

challenge: give a new life to an unusable item that otherwise would be
thrown away

- Those who are environmentally conscious => reduce the amount

of waste

What items can be repaired ?

- Products that are not too complicated for an average person to

figure out how they work: basic home appliances and devices such as
lambs, light bulbs and kitchen ware.

- Household goods that can be fixed by hands such as furniture

and clothes

Why do people prefer to get their smartphone repaired in a service

center?

- Hi-tech or fancy gadgets that requires technical insights into

computer programming

- Their structure and components are too complex for normal

people to disassemble and fix them.

- Service centers of Hi-tech companies offer professionally trained

experts and state-of- the-art tools that are required to perform such
intricate tasks
6. Something you received without having to pay for it (a product,
service, gift)

What kinds of gifts do businesses often give/ offer their customers?

and Why do they do so?

- Monetary gifts: discounts, coupons and loyalty points

- Free complimentary products and services: buy one get one at

no extra charge, free shipping or delivery / free softwares, trials and
maintenance service for a limited period

- Why: to attract more customers and boost sales / to increase

customers’ loyalty to the brand (to retain existing customers)

Is that an expensive way to advertise?

- That promotion method seems costly in the short term but its
long-term benefits will justify the initial costs

- shows that the company (business) doesn’t solely care about

taking money from their customers => increase their satisfaction
which leads to positive word-of-mouth and higher brand awareness

What services does the government provide for people for free?

- Universal healthcare and education services are free of charge in

Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway. Even in developing countries
like Vietnam, the cost of Covid-19 treatment is paid by the government

- Recreation and security services such as parks, fire brigade and

police calls

Should the government give people money and free food?

- Generally speaking, I’m against such programs. If average people

are provided with money, free home and free food, they might be
demotivated and become lazy

- While equal distribution of goods and services helps ensure

social justice, this system could discourage hard work and undermine
social progress

- Exception: babies in orphanages and homeless elders should be

entitled to such welfare programs since it’s impossible for them to
become self-reliant

7. A cake you were given on a special occasion

What kinds of food are often eaten on special occasions in Vietnam?

- Traditional food and expensive food

Do Vietnamese people prefer eating out or cooking at home? Why?

- Young people: eating out: more convenient, a wider range of

food options

- Old people: Cooking at home => healthier & budget-friendlier

Do you think it’s important for people to eat with their family
frequently?

- Stronger family ties & healthy emotional support

- However, it’s hard for people to find time for family meals due to
their increasingly hectic schedules with work, school, recreation and
leisure activities and other obligations

Do you think eating with family is the best way to connect with them?

- Yes, it’s easier to hold a meaningful and enjoyable conversation

between family members during mealtime

- A chance for young people to learn crucial life values and

wisdom from the elders and for old members to show their genuine
love and care for their offspring

How have foods changed? (Are today’s foods better than those in the
past?)

- Yes and No: more varied (imported foods) , better food

preservation technologies (fridge)

- Commercial foods tends to be of lower quality and less healthy

than they used to be => profit maximization

- Do you think that food plays an important part in festivals/

special events?

Absolutely. I believe food is at the heart of festivals/ special events

celebration. Cooking and eating traditional dishes on these occasions
is an effective way for people to preserve their valuable cultural
heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation.
Another major reason is that festive/ special events offer a perfect
opportunity for bonding and the connection that food can create
between people is uniquely meaningful and profound.

- How is food eaten on special occasions different from food eaten

on ordinary days?
Well, it seems to me that food served on special events such as
wedding parties, family gatherings or New Year Eve, is more elaborate
and delicious. People always put their heart into preparing festive
food. They choose expensive, top quality ingredients and spend hours
cooking and garnishing. Also, special meals tend to offer a greater
variety of dishes than a day-to-day menu.

- How do you compare the food that we now eat to the food we had
in the past?

The way I see it, food we ate in the past is generally healthier and safer
than what we have now. Due to our fast-paced modern life, we
consume more and more fast food and processed food, which is
detrimental to our health. Packaged meals and canned food offer a
wider range of choices but they are associated with serious safety
issues involving pesticide residues or hazardous additives. It’s time
for us to get back to the old days’ balanced and healthy diets.

- Do you think people should support local foods? Why?

Definitely. I believe this practice offers a ton of mutual benefits to

consumers, producers and the local economy as well. Local foods
tend to be fresher and healthier since no preservatives are added.
Also, due to low transportation and preservation cost, they might be
much cheaper than imported items. Most importantly, by buying
locally, people help boost economic activities in the regions, leading to
more jobs and higher income. On top of that, consuming local foods
can promote sustainable growth as carbon emissions would be
significantly reduced.

- Do you think it’s important for people in a family to eat together?

Why?

Definitely. Cooking and eating together plays a vital role in maintaining

a close-knit family. By reflecting on the day, sharing stories or telling
some jokes during a meal, people can better understand each other
and truly feel loved and cared for. Those who spend quality dinner
time with their beloved family are said to lead a more successful,
healthier and happier life. Therefore, I believe eating together is an
essential part of building a strong family.

- What do you think of different generations eating together?

(Benefits: young people can learn about traditional foods and table
manners. However, there are some possible drawbacks: arguments
may arise because old people and young people tend to prefer
different types of foods or ways of cooking and eating. For example,
teenagers might like fast foods or use gadgets while having meals,
which may upset their grandparents…)

- Can you suggest some disadvantages of not eating together?

These days, families rarely eat together. As a result, people miss out
on meaningful time with their loved ones and gradually lose
connections. This can have adverse impacts on their physical and
mental health. Eating junk food instead of home-cooked food might
increase their risk of obesity and other severe diseases. In addition,
when losing emotional support from their family, people tend to
become isolated and find it hard to overcome all struggles in their life.

- People are getting busier with their work, do you think

they will eat with their family less often?

I believe so. While the emotional impact of sharing meals with family
cannot be underestimated, people are compelled to eat convenience
food for lunch and even dinner. Many people are constantly on the go.
They leave home early in the morning and do not come back until late
at night. Even when eating together, they tend to get involved more
with distractions such as television or mobile devices rather than
communicating with each other. This cannot be counted as having
meals together I think.

- What is the difference between eating out and cooking at home?

Well generally, eating out is more expensive while cooking at home

seems healthier. On the one hand, when dining at a high-quality
restaurant, they can enjoy exquisite delicacies only an experienced
chef can make. Another bonus point is they don’t have to stress over
all the cooking, dish washing and cleaning work. On the other hand,
cooking at home might be the best option for health-conscious eaters
or those living on a budget. Being in control of ingredients and
proportions means they can avoid food allergies and have the freedom
to make whatever they want in order to pursue their healthy lifestyle.

- Do you think in the future people will eat out more than at home?
I believe in the long term, people will cook their own meals at home
more often. As living costs are rising steeply and given the ongoing
economic downturn in many countries, people are constantly seeking
ways to save money. Cutting back on dining out seems the best
available option. More importantly, individuals are becoming more and
more conscious of their health and what they put into their body.
Cooking at home is part of their effort to follow a balanced and healthy
diet.

8. An interesting song

What makes a song become popular?

- Meaningful, fun and relatable lyrics

- Trendy genre, catchy tunes

- Talented marketing team/ creative marketing campaigns

What kinds of music do people in Vietnam like? (young people & old
people)

- Young: western and korean pop music, local trendy songs

- Old: traditional music (folk music) and old Vietnamese ballad

songs

Do you think people in the past preferred the same types of music?

- I don't think so. Twenty years ago, foreign music wasn’t popular
in VN

- Local pop songs and folk music used to be played on TV and the
radio

Are there many music shows on TV in your country? Which shows are
popular & why?

- Yes, music talent shows and game shows

- Music programs for children: TheVoice Kids

- Talent shows are most widely preferred (people love competition

and talented people:

xem Part 3 topic Talent quy truoc)

How are live music concerts different from recorded shows?

- It is more fascinating to attend live music shows or concerts than
watching them on TV or listening to the recorded version. For
passionate fans, nothing compares to seeing their idols in person and
listening to their real voice.

- Another major reason could be that when young people join a

crowd of the same interest, they’d feel a sense of belonging and this
positive energy can make watching live music performances much
more enjoyable and memorable

- Recorded music might be more refined and smooth as it has

been edited with digital software like Autotune.

- It’s less costly to listen to music recordings than to watch a live

concert

9. A time you were preparing for a happy event (ideas giống topic
Plan part 3 quy truoc)

When do people need to prepare?

- When they’re going to organize or take part in a major event such

as a wedding or a company’s year-end party.

- Another situation might be when they are about to face a huge

challenge like the university entrance exam or a job interview.

- Such events might determine their future life, so it makes sense

to be well-prepared for them in advance.

Do you think organization skills are important?

- At work: Ensure that projects and events run smoothly , prepare

for unexpected scenarios ; …meet deadlines, minimize stress and
perform their duties more efficiently

- Boost employees’ productivity and efficiency > Achieve the best

possible outcome

- In terms of personal life: Being well-organized helps maintain a

clean and healthy living environment / achieve a healthier work/life
balance > feel greater life satisfaction

Do you think old people have better organizational skills than young
people? Why?

- Old people tend to be more experienced > know who is the right
fit for various tasks and where to find the required resources for a
certain project
- Older adults have better interpersonal skills > are more receptive
to different perspectives ; are less arrogant and self-centered , all of
which are crucial to the successful organization of large events

Do you think people are born with good organization skills or they can
learn them?

- The way I see it, being organized has nothing to do with genetics.
Organizational skills are just habits that can be established and
nurtured

- With insightful knowledge, appropriate training and the

assistance of advanced computer programs, people can become well-
organized over time

How can children learn organization skills?

- Parents set a good example for their kids by organizing their

household chores effectively

- Teach their kids to organize their daily activities through healthy

routines and habits .

This will enable them to successfully organize their own life later on.

10. A discussion/ conversation that you found interesting What do

young people in Vietnam often discuss ?

- Study, work and ways to get rich

- Latest fashion, movies, music and technological products

- Another favorite topic among youngsters is the lives of

celebrities

When do children start to have their own opinions?

- Probably from the age of 2 or 3, children start to have their own

ideas. Their brains develop extremely fast during the formative years

- Though toddlers can’t verbally express their opinions, they might

use body language to show their preferences for clothes, toys and
foods

Should parents influence (change) their children’s opinions?

- A child’s opinion might not always be sensible according to

adults’ judgment

- However, parents should respect their little ones’ opinions if they

appear to do no harm
- In case their opinions might lead to serious wrongdoings, then
adults should gently explain to them so that they would gradually shift
their mindset

- All in all, parents should guide their children to make sure they
grow healthily, both physically and mentally, rather than force their
own ideas on their child

Do you think it’s important for children to have their own opinions?

- If young people express their opinions from a very young age,

they will soon develop independent thinking ability, which is crucial to
their success at school and at work later in life

- They tend to become more mature and self-assured when they

grow up

Should leaders listen to their subordinates’ opinions?

- Show that they appreciate and genuinely care about their

employees > better job satisfaction > be motivated to work harder and
contribute more

- Facilitate problem solving process: Looking at a problem from

different perspectives might help leaders come up with a brilliant
solution that can save millions of dollars

What kinds of jobs require good communication skills?

- Jobs that involve working in teams or dealing with other people,

including customers and partners

- Managers and leaders > communicate well with their

subordinates to get things done according to the company’s strategies
and goals

Should the government listen to their citizens’ opinions?

- Yes, citizens should have some say over major issues of their
country

- This could make their policies, laws and regulations more

appropriate for their people

- If citizens’ voices are heard, they might respect their political

leaders more and thus are more willing to support them

How can the government organize successful public campaigns?

- Run the campaign on mass media and social media to reach as

many people as possible

- Ask for their citizens’ opinions through polling to obtain public

consensus
11. A person you spend a lot of time with Is it important to spend
time with others?

- Humans are social creatures > obtain a sense of belonging to a

group/ community > emotional support > feel more secure and happy

- Learn from others

Who do people often spend time with ? (nen chia ra : old people,
young people)

- Young: friends and new people

- Old: family and those in their social circle

Should people spend time with themselves?

- Absolutely, quality “me” time enables them to rejuvenate and

connect to themselves. This is healthy for their sense of self-worth and
their overall mental health.

- Those who don’t make time for themselves tend to …

Do you think people will spend more time with their family in the
future?

- Let me see. I guess people are likely to spend more time with
their family in the future.

- Most people have realized the detrimental impacts of an

unhealthy work/life balance

- After the Covid 19, an increasing number of people still prefer

working from home

- This would help them reduce commuting time and thus have
more spare time to take care of their family

Do you think an individual’s characteristics are influenced by people

around them?

- That’s a tough one

- The way I see it, it is undeniable that people are born with certain
traits inherited from their parents

- However, I believe their personality is largely determined by the

environment in which they grow up, especially during their formative
years

- Young people’ characters are shaped by their interactions with

those they often spend time with, I mean their family and their peers.
Example: hang out with toxic friends…

12. An ideal house you’d like to live in

Do Vietnamese people prefer a house or a flat?

- Young people: A decent apartment in the city center : more

convenient, affordable, better security (guards)

- Old people: a house with a lot of open space and a garden if

possible

How have houses in Vietnam changed?

- In the past, people used to live in simple cottages in the

countryside

- Today: comfy, well-equipped and well-furnished apartments

tends are more popular as people tend to migrate to urban areas in
search of better income and a higher standard of living

Are there any differences in the kinds of houses that young and old
people like?

- Young: A modern apartment in bustling downtowns with easy

access to entertainment and recreation facilities

- Old: A simple house in a quiet area, preferably in the countryside

Do people in Vietnam prefer to buy or rent a house? Why?

- Younger adults prefer renting: affordable, flexible, can share the

rents with others

- Those with a family long for their own house: like to settle down,
don’t have to move home often, more privacy and freedom to decorate
their houses the way they wish.

How will houses change in the future?

- Green materials and designs

- Smart homes: super-intelligent machines and equipment =>

manage their home when they are away

- Built in difficult terrains such as in the ocean or even in the outer

space

13. A skill you learned from an old people

What can children learn from their parents and grandparents?

- Life skills (cooking, home-making, gardening…)

- Wisdom and moral values (hard work, self-discipline, patience,

tolerance, helping others…)

What can old people learn from young people?

- How to use HI-tech gadgets …and the Internet

- How to have fun and enjoy life

Do you think young people can learn new skills faster than old people?

- Yes, young people have a sharper mind and they tend to be more
curious and inquisitive about new things

- Old people often experience a mental decline, which might

severely affect their cognitive abilities

Are there any differences in the way people learn new skills today and
in the past?

- Used to learn through apprentice programs or vocational training

courses

- Now …learn almost anything on the Internet, using a computer or

a smartphone: cooking, dancing, photography, … => more convenient
and less costly

Do you think today’s skills are more difficult to learn than those in the
past?

- Equally challenging, nerve-wracking and time-consuming

(sample trong sach chính)

14. A place in the countryside you visited (a village) Why do people

like visiting the countryside?

- Less crowded (slow pace of life) / offer a more relaxing

atmosphere => escape the exhausting hustle and bustle of city life =>
rejuvenate / recharge their batteries

- Fresh air and cleaner environment

- A lot of green space => get close to nature => improve their
physical and mental well- being

Is there anything special about the countryside in Vietnam?

- Beautiful scenery: endless rice paddies, winding rivers, blue

skies

- Friendly and welcoming people

- Traditional customs and practices are generally well-preserved

What do people often do when visiting a village?

- Walking or cycling around

- Staying with a host family

- Experience their ways of life: food, gardening, crafting

How has the countryside in Vietnam changed?

- Being modernized and urbanized rapidly

- is increasingly polluted due to industrial activities

Do you think there will be more people living in the countryside in the
future?

- I would say so. Rural areas are likely to become more livable than
cities

- Nowadays people tend to work/ study remotely so they can live

anywhere they prefer

- Many have realized the benefits of the countryside to children’s

development

- City life is becoming increasingly exhausting

- The Covid -19 has been a catalyst for the migration of city
dwellers back to their hometown

15. Something you did to learn a language

What are common problems people face when learning a new

language?

- Be confused with the pronunciation and grammar of their mother

tongue

- Lack opportunities to practice speaking and writing => unable to

improve their output skills

Do you think foreign language learning is important to high school

students? Why?

- Can understand books and other learning materials written in

foreign languages => improve their academic performance

- Learning another language means exploring another culture,

which fosters their cross- cultural understandings => become a global
citizen

- Might be better-prepared for the world of work than those who

don't

What is the best way to learn a new language? Why?

- Immerse themselves in an environment in which the language is
used by:

- living in the country for a while

- Surrounding themselves with materials written or spoken in that

language

- Watching movies or Youtube videos to mimic native speakers

Do you think learning languages alone is better than in a group?

- Learn with others, especially with those at a higher level =>

correct each other’s mistakes => are motivated to work hard …

How has language learning changed?

- Used to learn through boring textbooks and audio tapes

- Language teaching and learning methods and materials are now

more interactive and fascinating

- The Internet and social media have made it easier for language
learners to make friends with foreign people and practice speaking and
writing

16. Describe a person whose work is useful to society What factors

affect people’s salary?

- Their talents, working experience, and abilities which are in high

demand in the job market

- Their work performance and their contributions to the company

or organization

What kinds of jobs receive a high salary in Vietnam?

- Well-paid jobs/ high-paying jobs: Those who work in media,

financial consulting, banking and computer and information
technology tend to get a higher salary

- These are the fastest-growing economic sectors in Vietnam now

What kinds of jobs get paid the least in Vietnam?

- Manual workers like waiters, garbage collectors or farmers

- Teachers in public schools and doctors in public hospitals tend

to be underpaid

What should teachers do to increase their income?

- Organize private classes and charge a higher fee

- Take a side hustle and turn it into a small business or do a part-

time job as a shipper or a tutor

What skills should be taught at highschools to make students become

contributing members of society?

- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills (take solid actions to

solve social issues)

- Interpersonal skills (teamwork & collaboration)

Do you think studying at university is the best way to earn a lot of

money?

- I don’t think so. Higher education isn’t the optimum way to get
rich

- University education is mainly focused on general knowledge

about specific majors such as accounting, marketing or teaching

- In this ever-changing world, knowledge acquired at school might

be outdated.

- To get a high salary or run a successful business, people need

up-to-the-minute info

- High achievers tend to own valuable expertise that can only be

acquired through many years of working in a certain field

- Self-learning is the key to success

What are retirement ages in Vietnam? Do you think the ages are
appropriate?

- Around 60 for men and 55 for women

- It’s better to increase the retirement ages in Vietnam by 1 or 2

years

- Many elders that age are still physically fit and can contribute a
lot to their company through their wealth of wisdom and experience.

- Working provides them a valuable opportunity to maintain an

active social life and thus stay healthier

17. Describe a gift you’d like to buy for a friend.

On what occasions do people in VN often give gifts to others?

- Major personal events like birthday/ wedding/ housewarming

parties
- Traditional holidays and customs such as Mid-autumn holiday,
Teacher day, Women day, valentine day and so on

What kinds of gifts are popular in VN?

- Practical gifts: money, foods, clothes, jewelry and homeware

- Meaningful gifts: trees and flowers, handmade stuff, especially

origami items

Do you think people in VN prefer expensive gifts or meaningful gifts?

- It depends on their personality

- Those who are materialistic might favor fancy gifts with a high
price tag

- Those who are laid-back and simple may value gifts with a
special meaning more

Do you think it is difficult to choose a gift?

- I would say so

- People must take a range of factors into careful consideration

- The gift must be appropriate for the occasion according to the

culture of those receiving it

- It also needs to match the personal preferences and styles of the

recipient

- It’s crucial that the giver can afford the gift

Who is happier? The person receiving a gift (the recipient) or the

giver?

- Equally happy if those at the receiving end appreciate the gift

- Givers: have an opportunity to express their gratitude, love and

care to those who matter the most to them

- Recipients: be assured that they are appreciated and loved by

the givers who have made an effort to get to know their personal styles
and needs and find the right gift for them

18. A story someone told you Why do children like stories?

- Fun and entertaining => Stimulate their imagination

- Children are eager to learn new words and ideas. … allow them
to explore the world: people, places and things they haven’t heard of
- Storytelling for children involves spending time with their family

Do young children like the same stories as older children?

- I don't think so.

- Toddlers are fond of short, simple, well-illustrated stories about

familiar subjects like clothes, food, animals

- Older children have higher cognitive abilities => …. tend to prefer

longer, more complex stories that have a clear plot and several
characters. … Themes are also a bit more complicated , not about
things but mainly about people and moral values

What methods can people use to tell children stories?

- Words (written and spoken)

- Images (illustrated books, cartoons and movies, puppet shows)

How has storytelling changed? (now & in the past > technology)?

- In the past: books, drawings and oral stories that have been
passed down from generation to generation: fairy tales, legends and
fables

- Today: music, dramas and movies are more popular tools for
contemporary storytelling

19. A rule or regulation you don't like What kinds of rules do schools
usually have?

- Dress code: formal clothes or uniform

- Code of conduct (teachers and students): behavior/ manner/

duties / moral values

Basically there are two kinds of rules implemented in educational

institutions around Vietnam. The first one is codes of conduct or
codes of ethics that govern the behaviors of students, educators and
even students’ parents at school. This set of rules is critical because
without them, misconducts such as cheating on exams, disrespectful
behaviours, classroom disruptions and child abuse would be
prevalent. Another common type of regulation in schools is the dress
code which clearly states what kinds of uniforms or outfits students
and teachers should wear.

What kinds of rules are common in Vietnamese families?

- Manner: children must obey and show respect to grown-ups. In

most families, they aren’t allowed to do certain things such as talking
back, cursing or coming home late
- Responsibilities: family members need to fulfill their duties and
obligations. They must keep their personal space tidy and organized.
Kids are expected to complete their homework on time. Moms must
prepare healthy and nutritious meals for the family…

Do you think they are good? or bad? Should children follow them?

- Educational values => what kinds of behavior are and are not
accepted => children know what is morally right and wrong => become
well-behaved individuals

- Rules help create and maintain structure => build a close-knit

and well-functioning family

- However, they might restrict individuals’ freedom to lead their

own lives and create unnecessary pressure

- Children should respect rules and regulations that are for their
own interest and safety

How should children be punished if they break a rule?

- That’s a tough one. … not an expert in parenting but I suppose

parents must be cautious when it comes to punishing their children.

- If it is their first-time violation of the rule, ... explain to them

- Repeated wrongdoings => doing chores instead of corporal

punishment

20. An interesting city

Do people prefer to visit old (traditional/ ancient/ historical) cities or

modern cities?

- Young: modern, futuristic cities with a dynamic vibe

- Old: cities that are rich in historical and cultural heritage

What do visitors often do when they visit a place?

- Sightseeing: visiting major attractions like monuments,

museums and iconic buildings

- Experience local culture: foods, performances and festivals

- Shopping: high-end products and souvenirs

How to attract more tourists? What makes a city attractive to tourists?

- Unique culture (traditional food, architecture and festivals)

- Friendly, hospitable locals

- Safe environment
What are the benefits tourism brings to a city?

- Generate more jobs and greater income => boost local economy

- A higher standard of living for local residents

- Raise public awareness of cultural heritage preservation

What are the disadvantages of tourism to a city?

- Cultural globalization: Foreign tourists introduce new ways of life

to locals => young generations might favor a foreign lifestyle and
move away from their indigenous traditions and values

- Local culture could be commercialized and altered to appeal to

the tastes and preferences of international visitors => cultural erosion

- Unavoidable damage to tangible cultural heritage such as

monuments and historical sites

- Over-reliance on tourism => risky (in case of a fatal pandemic like

Covid-19)

Who prefer to live in cities? Young people or old people? Why?

- Young people tend to favor cities over the countryside

- Better employment opportunities and higher income

- A wider range of entertainment and recreation facilities such as…

- Fascinating social life

Why do old people prefer to live in the countryside?

- Quiet atmosphere

- Stay close to nature

- Slow pace of life: no hustle and bustle

- Friendly and helpful neighbors , a strong sense of community

21. A lesson that you remember well

What do people have to remember in their daily life?

- Important personal information: name, address, usernames and

passwords for their bank accounts or social media accounts

- Where to find their daily items such as clothes, towels and

stationery

What do people often remember the most in their life? Why?

- Happiest moments or events: beautiful childhood memories or a
great accomplishment

- The most painful experiences: a serious accident or breakup

- Unforgetable life lessons: learn from their costly mistakes to

become wiser

Why do some people have a better memory than others?

- Genetic factors: Born with a higher level of intellectual

intelligence > can come up with smart methods to identify, classify and
remember information

- Environmental factors: high-quality education, especially early

year education > have a sharper mind that is able to retain and retrieve
information more effectively and efficiently

Do you think people nowadays have better memories than those in the
past?

- That’s a tough one

- I suppose people in the past were better at remembering things

than us

- In the past, people used to rely solely on their brain to store

valuable information

- They might have had more opportunities to train their mind and
thus had a sharper mind

Is it good to practice remembering?

- Absolutely. This practice might enable people to perform better

at school or at work.

- Students tend to achieve higher grades if they can recall

acquired knowledge faster and more accurately

- Old people would have a lower risk of a severe mental decline or

illness such as dementia

Can technology help people remember things better?

- I don't think so

- Cutting-edge technologies have made people become over-

reliant on them

- Without a doubt, computers can outperform humans’ brains in

terms of memory capacity

- Computing systems enable people to store and retrieve an

enormous amount of information in a fraction of a second
- With a smartphone connected to the Internet, there’s no need for
people to remember anything except how to retrieve the information
they want

- This might result in a decline in their abilities to remember even

the most basic information like their own phone number

which can help people remember things better? words or photos?

- I’d say that images make a more effective tool.

- Children tend to prefer illustrated books over textbooks

- Many people choose to watch a movie adaptation rather than

read the original novel

- Images are closer to the reality than symbols, and probably that’s
why our mind can recognize them faster and remember them longer
than plain texts

22. A person you follow on social media

What kinds of media do people in Vietnam like? (TV, Newspapers,

radio, social media)

- Young people: more tech-savvy => digital media ( social media

and the Internet)

- Old people: traditional forms such as broadcast media (TV &

radio) and print media (newspapers and books)

Why do people like social media? What do they often do on social

media?

- They are usually free of charge

- Can stay in touch with friends: send and receive messages

instantly and get up-to-the- minute updates about each other’s life

- Easily find and make new friends who share their interests and
hobbies

- Virtual social interactions

- Funny and entertaining content => make life more enjoyable

- A chance to express themselves by posting their opinions and

comments

Do young people spend more time on social media?

- I would say so.

- Youngsters tend to get addicted to social media like Facebook,

Instagram and Tiktok

- They love having fun and are constantly seeking novel

experience

- Social media allow them to instantly access all exhilarating

contents across the globe just with a finger

Do you think social media such as Facebook and Youtube are good for
children?

- Well they can be beneficial to some extent

- A large number of Vietnamese students use social media as their

major source of learning, especially in foreign language learning

- However, excessive use or poor social media literacy might put

children at risk of online bullying and damaging peer pressure

- This might contribute to the rise of mental illnesses such as

depression and anxiety among teens

Do you think other media such as TV and newspapers are still useful?

- well , they still have a significant role to play today but I doubt
that they would still be useful in the distant future

- Or perhaps they would be transformed by cutting-edge

technologies and remain major media platforms for generations to
come

What kinds of people are often famous on social media?

- Talented people: post photos and clips of their creative products

online and become popular almost overnight

- Charismatic people: possess a good sense of humor & a high

level of emotional intelligence => easily attract a huge fan base and
become a key influencer

- Exceptionally good-looking or wealthy individuals are also likely

to become high-profile personalities

23. An item of clothing that someone gave you

Why do people wear different clothes at home and at work?

- Well, I suppose this is mainly because clothes serve multiple

purposes depending on different situations.
- When people are home, comfort tends to be given the highest
priority and thus they favor casual wear

- however , they usually wear formal outfits at work as they need

to comply with a dress code that helps maintain a professional
corporate image

What are the benefits of wearing uniforms (at work & school)?

- Promote a sense of unity and professionalism

- Give students and employees a sense of belonging

- Might reduce discrimination and inequality

What are the disadvantages of wearing uniforms?

- Might be uncomfortable

- Discourage creativity and diversity => individuals can’t express

their personal styles

Do you think people around the world wear the same types of clothes
nowadays?

- That's true to some extent.

- Globalization has made western clothes like Jeans and T-shirts

become popular around the globe. These items are versatile,
comfortable and easy to wear

- Fast fashion brands such as … and … are also increasingly

preferred across national borders

- However, I believe people from different countries still follow

different dress codes and styles

Why do people from different countries wear different clothes?

- Environmental factors, especially climate. People in tropical

countries like … prefer light, breathable clothing while those living in
temperate zones tend to bundle up

- Cultural factors: Clothes are a crucial part of traditional ways of

life and that’s why people from different cultures tend to follow
different fashion styles

Do you think traditional costumes are important?

- A major part of a nation’s cultural heritage

- Tell a lot about life in the past

- Make the world amazingly diverse and worth exploring

Why do some companies have uniforms or a dress code? (quy tắc về

ăn mặc)
Well, uniforms are essential to certain jobs such as police or
firefighters as they can be recognised easily. For manual jobs, safety
uniforms such as protective gears help prevent injuries and dirt. Those
who work in the office tend to follow a formal dress code, like a pair of
trousers and shirts for males and a skirt and blouse for females.
Particularly, a number of businesses make uniforms an integral part of
their corporate identity, which may set them apart from their
competitors and project a professional image of the company or
organization in the eyes of its customers.

Why do students wear uniforms?

In my view, the most significant reason is to create equality. When

wearing uniforms, poor students tend to feel less humiliated and
embarrassed about their family background and thus focus more on
study. Another reason is that uniforms cultivate a sense of belonging
and unity in a school, eventually creating a favorable learning
environment for all students.

24. A long walk you took

What kinds of outdoor activities do Vietnamese people like?

- Generally speaking, urban residents in Vietnam are not really into

outdoor activities due to severe air pollution in major cities like …and
… Just a small number of city dwellers are fond of jogging, cycling or
playing outdoor sports

- In the countryside, however, people spend most of their day

outdoors: working on their farms or simply enjoying a relaxing walk

How have leisure activities changed?

- In the past, people used to spend most of their leisure time

outdoors and with other people

- Today , there is a rising popularity of indoor leisure activities

such as …

- activities that require physical exertion tend to be less preferred

- Also, people increasingly choose to be on their own during their

leisure time
Do you think leisure time is important?

- Absolutely, => rejuvenate after exhausting days at work => have

time to pursue their hobbies => achieve a healthy work/life balance

- Leisure activities such as… and … offer dazzling economic

benefits

Do you think men have more leisure time than women? Why?

- I would say that men tend to enjoy more leisure hours per week
than their female counterparts

- In many countries, women are still the main caregiver of a family

- After work, they might be busy with tons of household chores

like preparing dinners or taking care of their little ones while men can
still hang out with their mates or coworkers

Wish you the best on your journey!