Speaking IELTS 2020 Anh Ngu Ca Chep

Applied ARCS Model – Keller 🕾 098 456 60 68
Attention-Relevance-Confidence-Satisfaction-Learning Motivation 🕾 084 219 85 85
TOPIC 1 – CITIES
EXAMINER
Good morning/ afternoon.
Please take a seat. My name is ________________ and I’m your examiner. Please tell me your
full name.*
What should I call you?
Could you give me your identification please?
Thank you. Now I’d like to ask you some questions about yourself. All right?
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you some questions about your hometown.
Where are you from?
I come from HCM city which is considered as one of the most crucial industrial and commercial
cities in Vietnam.
Crucial (adj): quyết định, cốt yếu

Industrial (adj): công nghiệp
Commercial (adj): thương mại
Were you born there?

Yes, my family and I have also been living there for almost 20 years.
What’s your hometown like?

My hometown is well-known for many things such as buildings although some are run-down now.
The people are also renowned for their hospitality, honesty and diligence. The landscapes there
are, as the same time, breathtaking.
run-down (adj) : xuống cấp

renowned/rińaund/ (adj) : nổi tiếng
breathtaking (adj): hấp dẫn
hospitality/¸hɔ:spi´tæliti/ (n): lòng mến khách
honesty/'ɔnisti/ (n): tính chân thật
diligence/´dilidʒəns/ (n): sự cần cù
landscape /'lændskeip/ (n): phong cảnh
ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

Simplicity makes sophistication
What do you like about your hometown?

I enjoy every single thing about my motherland but to pick out the one that I am most fond of I
guess I would go with the cuisine. There’s been a rumour that Vietnamese food is not as good as
it’s cracked up to be and I believe that rumour is absolutely wrong. From expensive dishes served
in the luxurious restaurants to low-cost ones on the streets are all irresistible.
cuisine /kwi´zi:n/ (n): ẩm thực

rumour /ˈrumər/ (n): lời đồn
luxurious /lʌg´zjuəriəs/ (adj): xa hoa, sang trọng
low-cost /'lou,kɔst/ (adj): giá rẻ
irresistible /¸iri´zistəbl/ (adj): không thể cưỡng lại được
to be as good as it’s cracked up to be : ngon như lời người khác nói
Now let’s talk about food:

Describe your favorite food.
It comes out of my mind without taking a second to think that is Phở. Phở is one of the traditional
foods of Vietnam which has been popular among every Vietnamese. Its ingredients and the way
to cook it are not very complicated but the result is over-expected.
ingredient /in'gri:diənt/ (n): thành phần
When do you like to eat it?

I have it for breakfast everyday and sometimes for lunch and dinner. It sounds kinda strange that
I can eat it most of the time without getting fed up it.
fed up /ˌfed ˈʌp/ (adj) : chán ngấy
What kind of food can you cook yourself?

To be honest, I’m not very good at cooking but I once made a pizza for my close friend and she
enjoyed it pretty much.

Now I’d like to ask you about your routine:

Are all your days the same?
Well not really, almost everyday I go to work but when I’m off duty I usually hang out with my
friends for leisure pursuit or I just stay home and watch the box.
leisure pursuit (n): giải trí

watch the box : xem ti vi
Describe a typical day for you.

I start my day with doing personal hygiene, after that I rush to work and begin my daily tasks until
12 sharp and then have an interval to rest between 2 shifts. Then again working until 5pm and go
home. In the evening, I spend time finishing my work tasks which I haven’t done yet or If I’m free
I will ask my fellows out for a cup of coffee or watch TV.
personal hygiene (n): vệ sinh cá nhân

interval (n): khoảng
What do you usually do at the weekend?

Nothing much, I often take my children to my parents’ house so as to let them visit their
grandparents in the day. In the evening, I usually prepare for my work or go to some places to have
a chance to make someboby’s acquaintance.
to make somebody’s acquaintance : kết bạn
PART 2

Now I’d like to ask you to speak for 1 to 2 minutes on this topic (hand Candidate the CARD for
Part 2). Please read the topic carefully. You have one minute to think about what you’re going to
say. You can make notes to help you if you wish.
Describe a city you have visited which has impressed you. You should say:
Where it is situated
Why you visited it
What you liked about it
and explain why this city impressed you.
1. Do you like cities in general?

2. Would you like to live in the city you spoke about?
CITY
I’m kinda a person who likes/ has a huge passion for travelling cuz I know “Travelling broadens
our horizons”. Up to now, I’ve visited plenty of fantastic places around Vietnam and the ONE that
gave (giving) a deep impression on me is Dalat City which is located in highland of South of
Vietnam. I went to Dalat City with my family members for a vacation in 2016. You can definitely
see that I am quite the big fan of Dalat city (this amazing place) because of some specific reasons:
The first absolutely important point I wanna mention here is about the local weather I found in
Dalat, everybody can possibly enjoy the fresh air and year-round cool weather here.
And another essential thing I could add is that there’s a wide variety of amazing tourist attractions,
for instance, the wonderful valleys, waterfalls, mountains, hills and parks surrounded by many
kinds of beautiful trees or flowers.
And I think I shouldn’t forget to remark on the fact that local people are kinda friendly and
hospitable to be with; you know, they willingly help you whenever you are in need, get lost, or
wanna find your ways to get to somewhere, and even in danger.
In short, all these things I have told you above make me love Dalat city the most. If I have a chance
to travel to somewhere, I’ll obviously get back to Dalat City.
1. Do you like cities in general?

In general, Yes. I see no reason to hate this place.
2. Would you like to live in the city you spoke about?

Although, living here is absolutely wonderful but still no places like home I have gotten
used to the atmosphere back in HCM city, besides my friends, my family are living in
HCM city, so moving to Da Lat city now is something that I believe impossible and
impractical.
Travelling forms a young man: đi 1 ngày đàng học 1 sàng khôn

Observation is the best teacher: trăm nghe không bằng mắt thấy
PART 3
You’re been telling me about a city, now I’d like to ask you a few related questions.
1. Discuss the pros and cons of living in a city.
● Pros:
o More opportunities
o Growth potential
o Endless inspiration
o Office perks

● Cons:
o Cost of living
o Big fish, small pond
o Leaving your network
o Loss of familiarity
o Stress levels
2. Explain the causes of urban stress and suggest solutions for the problem.
● Causes:
o Life in cities has its drawbacks.
o The cost of living is higher than in rural areas.
o Housing is usually much more expensive.
o Homelessness and poverty are common in cities.
o There is a gap between the rich and poor.
o Life in cities can be extremely stressful.
o There are problems like traffic congestion and crime.
o Cities lack a sense of community.
o People do not even know their neighbours.
o Cities are sometimes described as “concrete jungles”.

● Solutions:
o Encourge residents in rural areas to continue living there.
o Provide occupational opportunites
o More plans to organise the urban life.
3. Speculate on ways in which the city you now live in may change in the future.
● The living standard will rise.
● More occupational opportunites
● More pollutant
4. Compare life in the city with life in the countryside.

● Life in the city
o More modern
o More jobs
o Dirtier
o Higher cost of living
● Life in the countryside
o Less modern

o Fewer jobs
o Cleaner
o Lower cost of living
5. Describe rural and urban patterns of population distribution in Vietnam.
Thank you. It’s been interesting talking to you. Good luck with your future plans.
TOPIC 2 – COMPETITIONS
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you some questions about your work and studies.
I’d like you to tell me about your studies/ job.
I’m working as an English teacher at a local school in Ho Chi Minh city and I have been working
there for 5 years.

Why did you choose to study/ work in this particular field?

Because of the desire for teaching I had had ever since I was a young school boy in primary school
so I decided to follow this profession.
desire /di'zaiə/ (n): khao khát, mong ước

profession /prə´feʃ(ə)n/ (n): nghề nghiệp
What do you like most about your studies/ job?

Seeing my students growing up and succeeding in earning special achievements has really made
me happy and love my job more. Sometimes I feel really exhausted because I have to work flat
out but it’s still something that I’m not very concerned about.
achievement /əˈtʃivmənt/ (n): thành tích

exhausted /ig´zɔ:stid/ (adj): kiệt sức
concerned /kən´sə:nd/ (adj): quan tâm
to work flat out: làm việc cật lực
What do you like to do in the future?

In the next few years, I hope that I will have my own school in order to help those who have
difficulty with English and I also want to support any children who are in poor condition so that
they will have a better life. I have a strong feeling that I will realize my dream in a short time.
realize /'riəlaiz/ (v): thực hiện

Now let’s talk about leisure:

What’s your favorite hobby?
Well, most of my spare time I always spend time reading books and I’m really into it. I believe
that by reading books you will have a chance to take one step closer to the knowledge of mankind
in spite of the fact that it’s rather impossible since knowledge is endless.
spare time: giờ rãnh

be into: thích
mankind /mæn'kaɪnd/ (n): nhân loại
endless /ˈɛndlɪs/ (adj): vô tận
When did you take up this hobby?

I took up this hobby when I first knew how to read and my mother is the one who guided me into
reading,
guide /gaɪd/ (v): dẫn, hướng
Is it very popular among people of your age in your country? Why?

I guess it’s a yes to me. As you might see, it’s quite easy to catch an image of thousands of people
having their noses in books in the bookstore or there are hundreds of cafe for book-lovers spreading
from street to street. It’s because more and more people has now realized the important of reading
books, they don’t want to fall behind instead they want to keep moving foward.
realize /'riəlaiz/ (v): nhận thức

spead /spred/ (v): trải
fall behind: thụt lùi
keep moving foward: tiến tới
to have one’s nose in...: chăm chú vào

And now about accommodation:

Describe your family home.
My home is located in district 1 which is known as one the most busy and bustling districts in
HCM city.
It’s just another normal house in the district with 2 bedrooms, 1 living room, 1 kitchen and 2
bathrooms.
bustling (adj) : hối hả
Do you like living there? Why/ Why not?

Pretty much I guess. Since it’s located in the center of the city so I don’t have any difficulties
travelling around and it has anything that I and my family need. But sometimes it’s rather annoying
because some of my neighbours often hold party at night and have extremely loud music which
makes it difficult for my family to sleep.
Do you think you will live there for a long time? Why/ Why not?
Well, besides the problem that I mentioned before it’s still a very perfect place to live long lasting.
But if I had enough money to buy houses in other places I’d love to move to Ha Noi. The reason
for my choice is because Ha Noi is really famous for its cultures and it’s also the capital of the
country. I’d love to know more about this city, the people there and I believe that this city will be
a dream place to live in the future.
culture /ˈkʌltʃər/ (n): văn hóa
PART 2

Describe a competition (or contest) that you have entered. You should say:
Where the competition took place

What you had to do
How well you did it
Describe how you felt about the competition.
1. Do you enjoy entering competitions?

2. Have you entered any other competitions?
Response:
Well last year I was lucky enough to have a once in a lifetime opportunity to enter the English
contest “Youth never say can’t” annually held by a very famous school named Khoa Tri. I was
really impressed by its monumental and glorious look at first sight. There were a lot people there
approximately 3 hundreds and some of whom are very famous and important ones. I came there
with my classmate, we have studied in the same school since elementary school and by
coincidence my friend knew about this contest and told it to me. The competition took place at a
conference house situated on Le Van Sy street. I didn’t have any problems finding it since it’s
very large and I heard that it’s rather difficult to book a room in this place because it’s just only
used for very important occasions. I didn’t do much, I just attended as a guest and enjoyed the
contest. All the candidates were very good at English as they spoke English fluently as if it had
been their mother tongue. There was one girl who left a deep impression on me because of her
grace and ability. She was also the runner-up of the competition. I felt it was a really memorable
experience and through the competition I was motivated to enhance my knowledge in English
more, particularly, my speaking skill. I’d love to be able to communicate to others in English as
smoothly as possible due to the fact that I wasn’t very good at English. Also, after the contest I
realized that knowing English is a very important thing as our country is taking transitional steps
to integrate international economic system and its key is English.
1. Do you enjoy entering competitions?

Well it’s still based on the purpose of its competition. If the purpose is good and
meaningful, why have to hate it and vice versa.
2. Have you entered any other competitions?
It was my very first competition that I’ve ever entered so in the future I hope that there
will be more practical contests like this one and I’ll surely attend them if I have a
chance.
monumental /,mɔnju'mentl/ (adj): vĩ đại, đồ sộ
glorious /'glɔ:riəs/ (adj): lộng lẫy

coincidence /kou'insidəns/ (n): trùng hợp

conference /ˈkɒnfrəns/ (n): hội nghị
situate /´sitʃu¸eit/ (v): ở vị trí
grace /greis/ (n): vẻ duyên dáng
ability /ə'biliti/ (n): năng lực
motivate /´mouti¸veit/ (v): thúc đẩy, động viên
transitional /træn´ziʃənəl/ (adj): chuyển tiếp
integrate /'Intigreit/ (v): hội nhập
candidate /'kændideit/ (n): thí sinh
a runner-up: người về nhì
PART 3
We’re been talking about competitions, now let’s discuss some related ideas.
1. Explain whether competitions in sport and academic fields are healthy for young people.
Why/ Why not?
● Competitions in sport
o Burn calories and help to build healthy bones and muscles.
o Help build sportmanship
● Competitions in academic fields
o Enhance knowledge

2. Describe the effects competing can have on a person or a group of people.

● Create motivation
● Change personalities
3. In your opinion, explain whether you think international competitions, for example The
Olympics Games are a positive thing.
● Help strengthen the relationship between countries
● Improve economic
4. Evaluate the effect international competition has on a nation, e.g. Vietnam.

● More countries will know about Vietnam
● All types of industries will develop
● Enhance living standard
5. How successfully do you think Vietnam will compete in future international competitions?
● More remarkable achievements

TOPIC 3 – CELEBRATIONS
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
Let’s talk about your hometown:
I’d like you to tell me about your hometown.
I was born in Long An - a province in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam. It serves as
a bridge between Ho Chi Minh City in the north and 12 provinces in the Mekong Delta in the
south. Long An is a low-lying coastal region, therefore some areas of it are subject to flooding
during the rainy seasons - this period lasts from the beginning of August until November.
province /province/ (n): tỉnh

delta /'deltə/ (n): đồng bằng
region /'ri:dʒən/ (n): vùng, miền
coastal /´koustl/ (adj): miền duyên hải, ven biển
low-lying /'lou'laiiη/ (adj): thấp, ở mức mặt biển
period /'piəriəd/ (n): chu kỳ
be subject to : chịu
How long have you lived there?

I’ve been living there for almost 25 years with my family.
What do you like most about your hometown?

I love my motherland because of some specific reasons. First of all, Long An is a very peaceful
place of which the landscapes are tremendous and wonderful. Second, the people there are very
friendly and they’re willing to help anyone in need without asking for a recompense.
tremendous /trɪˈmɛndəs/ (adj): bao la, to lớn, dữ dội

recompense /´rekəm¸pens/ (n): sự đền đáp, bồi thường
How has it changed in your lifetime?

The living standard has clearly improved a lot over the past few years. As in the past, the average
monthly income per person dropped at about 150$, while it has increased up to between 300 and
450$ this year. The reason for this development is because the goverment has given out an
appropriate policy in terms of economic.
living standard: tiêu chuẩn sống

income /'inkəm/ (n): thu nhập
policy /pɔlisi/ (n): chính sách
in terms of: về
Now let’s talk about language learning:

How long have you been studying English?
It’s been 12 years since I first learnt English and I still remember being taught the alphabet on my
first day.
Why are you studying English?

As far as I know, English is the only bridge which connects me myself to the outside world.
Therefore, I have to learn English and be well-prepared with it so when it comes to my
opportunities, I’ll be ready. And by opportunities here it means love or occupational chances.

What do you like about studying English?

What I like most about learning English is the fact that I learn a new unknown forening language,
which is a thing that I’m really keen. As a consequence it allows me to comunicate easily when I
go abroad as nowadays English is the most international language and also it will give me more
oportunities in this harsh race of getting a job in the future.
as a consequence: hệ quả là
harsh /ha:ʃ/: khắc nghiệt
And now let’s discuss family:

Tell me about your family.
My family isn’t a big one, only four of us. My father is quite over the hill and he is a blue-collar,
my mother is in her late 40 and she is a housewife and then it goes to my sister, she is in her early
20 and she works as a makeup artist at a famous bridal studio in district 1 and finally me – a
sophomore, I additionally have a a part-time job as a teaching assistant at a very well-known school
in the city. My family all wear glasses, I guess it runs in the family.
over the hill: già cả

blue-collar: lao động chân tay
run in the family: đặc điểm lưu truyền trong gia đình
How much time do you spend with them?

I spend most of my free time with my family as I believe family is the more important thing than
any others so I truly treasure it.
treasure /treʒ.ər/ (v): trân trọng

What kinds of things do you do together?

We just do the usual things as any other families do such as having meals, particularly during
dinner when we talk about our day like anything special things that happened or we usually spend
about 2 hours watching our favorite programs together. That’s all.
PART 2
Describe a celebration in which you were involved. You should say:
Where the celebration took place

What it happened
Why it was held
and explain how the celebration was conducted.
1. Do you enjoy attending celebrations?

2. Are these celebrations always happy events for you?
Response:
Well to be honest I’m a little bit conservative and anti-social. I’m not so interested in joining
parties or any crowded places. But last year, particularly at the end of last year, my friends asked
me out to celebrate the New Year’s Eve with them on Nguyen Hue street, I turned them down at
first but they kept on persuading me so I had no choice but to say “OK”. Turned out it wasn’t so
bad after all, in fact I really did enjoy the celebration. The atmosphere was very cheerful, every
body was smiling, taking photos and buying goods. We went to many places and did a lot things
such as watching a concert or eating street food. The one that I liked best was the grilled-squids.
But that’s not all, the main event of the celebration was The Count Down. Around 11:30
thousands of people gathered around Bach Dang Harbor, there was a DJ playing very exciting

songs and everyone was in high spirits. When the time came near, the DJ stopped playing and
everybody started waiting. And then it came to the counting part, each person was shouting
loudly from 10 to 0 and when it was 0:00 sharp, everyone said “Happy New Year” and the
fireworks began to explode in the sky. The scenery was extremely beautiful although there were
a few couples kissing each other which kind of bothered me. So after that lines of people began
to go home with a joy of happiness inside them hopping for a brand new year of fortune and
luckiness. In a nutshell, I definitely enjoyed the celebration.
1. Do you enjoy attending celebrations?

Like I said, normally I’m not so interested in attending crowded places.
2. Are these celebrations always happy events for you?

Definitely, each celebration has its own cheerful meaning so I feel quite pleased with
every event.
conservative /kən´sə:vətiv/ (adj): bảo thủ

anti-social /¸ænti´souʃəl/ (adj): khó gần gũi
bother /'bɔðə/ (v): quấy rầy, làm phiền
turn sb down: từ chối
turn out: hóa ra
gather around: tập trung lại

PART 3
We’re been talking about competitions, now let’s discuss some related ideas.
1. Evaluate the importance of traditional ceremonies in Vietnam today?
● Gratitude is the sign of noble souls.
● Help release stress and overcome difficulties
Gratitude is the sign of noble souls: ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây
2. How would you describe young peoples’ attitude toward tradition?

● Reserve and enhance traditional value
● Take pride in any traditional events
3. In what ways do you think Western influences have changed in traditional values?
● Cuisine
● Clothing
● The way people think

4. How will traditional customs be valued in the future?

● Play an important role in spiritual value
● Reserve and enhance
spiritual value: giá trị tinh thần
TOPIC 4 – ENTERTAINMENT
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you about sports.
What is your favorite sport?
Well, I have tried many kinds of sport such as basketball, soccer, badmintion, etc since I was a
young boy in primary school. But among all of them, the one that I really have a passion for is
soccer.

Do you prefer to play or watch sports?

Actually, I quite enjoy both of them. You see, each has its own excitement and advantages. While
playing sports teaches me how to cooperate with my teammates or helps us keep in shape, watching
sports on TV, as the same time, really motivates me a lot, what I’m trying to say is whenever I
watch sports, particularly a soccer game, when I see a player scoring, it makes me want to be as
good as him, but to be honest I always have difficulty with soccer; therfore, I keep on trying and
trying to practice more and more until I reach my goal as becoming better.
keep in shape: giữ dáng
How often do you play/ watch this sport?

Well, as the matter of fact, I do both quite often. I usually spend 1 to 2 hours watching soccer
whenever there is a match between big football clubs. Additionally, thanks to the help of one of
my friends, we can play soccer once or twice every weekend. I mean that ther is a friend of mine,
he knows lots of people who have the same passion for soccer as I do and whenever we are free,
my friend always set up a football match so that we can compete with each other.
Let’s talk a bit about festivals:

Tell me about a popular festival in Vietnam.
Well on this occasion, I’d say that Hung Kings’ festival is one the most interesting ones in
Vietnam.
Why is it so popular?

The purpose of this ceremony is to remember and pay tribute to the contribution of the Hung Kings
who are the traditional founders of the nation and became its first emperors.So on this day,
thousands of pilgrim gather and offer prayers and incense to their ancestors.
emperor /émpərə/ (n): hoàng đế

pilgrim /´pilgrim/ (n): người hành hương
incense /ínsens/ (n): nhang, hương, trầm
pay tribute to: tỏ lòng kính trọng
Are festivals an important part of life in Vietnam?

Indeed actually, festivals have become an indispensable piece of every Vietnamese religious life.
But do not get me wrong, by festivals, I mean crucial ones for example Hung Kings’ festival or
Indepedence Day. Through these celebrations, the people are reminded that we have to be grateful
for what we are having today on behalf of our ancestors’ blood.
indispensable /ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbəl/ (adj): rất cần thiết

religious /ri'lidʒəs/ (adj): tôn giáo, tính ngưỡng
grateful /´greitful/ (adj): biết ơn
on behalf of : nhân danh, thay mặt cho
And now for accommodation:

Describe your family home.
The family area includes the kitchen, dining and lounge in an open plan with huge windows that
look out into the backyard. My office is at the front of the house and all the bedrooms and
playrooms are upstairs.
plan (n); cách bố trí

lounge /'launʤ/ (n): phòng khách

Do you like living there? Why/ Why not?

Absolutely, it has every thing we need there and our neighbours are also perfect.
Do you think you will live there for a long time? Why/ Why not?
I have lived there for 20 years and up to now, I haven’t seen anything which makes us feel
uncomfortable so I truly think that we will live there for a long time.
PART 2
Describe a movie that has made a strong impression on you. You should
say:
which movie it was

what the movie was about
who the main stars were
and explain what it was about this movies that made such an impact on
you.
1. Do you enjoy watching movies?
2. Do movies help you escape from your everyday/ normal routine?
Response:
Recently I have watched a movie called King Kong which I consider a blockbuster. The movie
not only left a deep impression on me but taught me one important lesson as well.
So King Kong is a 2005 epic adventure monster film co-written, produced, and directed by Peter
Jackson. Set in 1933, King Kong told the story of Carl – an overly ambitious filmmaker who
forced his cast and hired ship crew to travel to the mysterious Skull Island. There they
encountered Kong, a legendary giant gorilla, whom they captured and displayed in New York
City, with tragic result which is the death of Kong.
The stars of the film were Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody and through motion picture,
Andy Serkis as the title character. I was really fascinated with Naomi Watts because of her pure

beauty and superb acting. Besides, the sounds of the movie were very awesome and the visual
effects were, as the same time, stunning. Because of these reasons, it won 3 Academy Awards
for Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing and Best Visual Effects.
I really love this movie although its ending was kind of sad. And through this movie I’ve learnt
one important lesson and that is you shouldn’t be greedy. If Carl hadn’t been so greedy, there
wouldn’t have been a tragedy like this. What is more interesting is that the next part of this series
was actually filmed in Viet Nam. All in all, I’m really looking forward to the next part.
1. Do you enjoy watching movies?

Pretty much I guess, you see, whenever there is a new movie on the cinema, I always
call my friends and ask if they want to go along. Even if they turn me down, I still
enjoy the movie myself. You can say that I’m a movieholic.
2. Do movies help you escape from your everyday/ normal routine?

Well definitely. Movies have really helped me in my everyday life. After a harsh
working day, movies are the only things that can rejuvenate me. I really don’t know
what to do know besides watching movies since I’m not so interested in reading
books or outdoor activities.
blockbuster /'blɔk,bʌstə/ (n): phim bom tấn

epic /ˈɛpɪk/ (adj): có tính chất anh hùng ca
overly /óuvəli/ (adv): thái quá, quá mức
encounter /ɪn'kaʊntər/ (v): chạm trán, đụng độ
display /dis'plei/ (v): phô bày, trưng bày
superb /sju:'pə:b/ (adj): tuyệt vời, xuất sắc
stunning /´stʌniη/ (adj): tuyệt vời, gây ấn tượng sâu sắc
visual /ˈvɪʒuəl/ (adj): thuộc thị giác
rejuvenate /ri´dʒu:və¸neit/ (v): làm khỏe lại, làm trẻ lại

PART 3
We’re been talking about movies and entertainment, now I’d like to ask you some questions related
to that.
1. What role do movies play in modern society?
● Help amuse oneself
● A powerful means to express culture
2. In what ways do you think popular movies influence young people?

● Education
● Motivation
3. Has popular entertainment changed over the years? Why do you think that is?
● Keep changing every day as people want something new
● The quality is a lot better
4. Which form of entertainment do you think will be the most popular in the future and why?
● High-tech devices as more and more people are fascinated with them

TOPIC 5 – CONSUMERISM (a)
EXAMINER

full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by talking about your hometown:
Where are you from?
I was born and brought up in Hồ Chí Minh city which is considered important for its economic
meaning.
What is your hometown like?

My hometown is a nice place to live with all the convenience that meet every person need. Also,
the locals are famous for their hospitablity, warm-heart and they’re always willing to help those
in need. Moreover, the scenery here is breath-taking with many skyscrapers and luxurious
architectures. The nature environment also earns a reputation for its beauty although it seems not
to be so intact right now.
intact /in'tækt/ (adj): nguyên vẹn
What places of interest are there in your hometown?

Honestly, I don’t go out much, I prefer staying home to spending time outside. But my friends
are very outgoing and they really know lots of interesting places. Once one of them told me
about a sky bar named Chill which is situated on 26 and 27 th floor of the AB Tower in which
they have good music and
wonderful drinks. Maybe you can get more information from the Internet.

Let’s talk a bit about food:

What is the main meal in your country?
It would be lunch I suppose. Lunch is usually served with rice together with meat and soup.
Do you like eating foods from other countries?

Not at all really, I have been familiar to Vietnamese foods and I can hardly eat any exotic foods
from other countries. But still, some types of dish that I am having everyday actually have their
own origins from other countries so I guess it still depends on the taste.
exotic /ig'zɔtik/ (adj): ngoại lai

origin /'ɔridӡin/ (n): nguồn gốc
How have eating habits changed in your country in the last few decades?
Well there has been a significant change in eating custom of Vietnamese people over the past
few decades. As more and more people are attracted to courses from other countries but not the
ones from motherland. Also, in the past there used to be 3 main meals a day while it has gone up
to 4 now including one late supper at night.
Let’s discuss leisure activities:

What do you like doing in your free time? Why?
I really enjoy reading books when I have free time because books offer me a large amount of
useful knowlegde so that I can enhance my academic skills.

academic /ˌækəˈdɛmɪk/ (adj): học thuật
Which is your favorite hobby and why?

Actually, I have a lot of hobbies such as reading, listening to music, playing sports, etc but the
one that I like best is shopping and I do it quite often. The reason for my choice is simple. By
going shopping I can keep me at the height of fashion, I hate being called out of fashion.
Although some items can cost me an arm and a leg but they’re still worth it I believe so.
at the height of fashion: hợp thời trang

cost an arm and a leg: rất đắt tiền
How often do you do it?

Like I said, I do it quite often. Sometimes three times a week, sometimes four if my budget
supports me. Once a very close friend of mine advised me not to spend money like water, she
said that I would be broke if I didn’t tighten the purse strings.
budget /ˈbʌdʒɪt/ (n): ngân sách

tighten the purse strings: tằn tiện
PART 2
Talk about something you’ve bought that you were very happy with. You should say:
What is was. Describe it.
Why you bought it
Where you bought it
ARCS positively affects learningWhere you kept it
motivation DORA CLASS
and say why you were so happy with it. Simplicity makes sophistication
1. Do you think you will ever replace it?

2. Does anyone else use it?
Response:
Well just last week, I bought a new jacket for myself. It was just a grey suede bomber jacket but
it’s very fashionable and it’s in the latest trend actually. Some of my friends had it before me and
it caught my eyes immediately.
I bought it because I wanted to have it like everybody else at school. It keeps irritating me on and
on that I gotta have it like in a flash. I bought it at a very famous store located on Nguyen Trai
street. They have extremely nice clothes but they’re tremendously expensive as well which can
cost you a fortune. Mine was not in the exception either, the jacket cost me about 90$. Despite
the price, it’s still worth every penny I spent. Moreover, I was able to get an 10% extra discount
for my next purchase so I will surely shop there again in a near future.
I always take good care of it in order to keep it novel and I also have to keep my eyes on it all the
time because I’m always afraid that someone’s gonna steal it from me.
So I was metioning that I was happy with the jacket because I could possess one for myself but
that was just a minor reason. The major reason for this is that for the very first time in my life I
was able to buy one thing from the money that I earned by working as a dish washer at a
restaurant near my house. Although I’ve learnt that making money is a very difficult thing and
buying such an costly product like this is rather a waste of money. But it was my goal when I
started as first so I didn’t regret at all. Maybe I’ll be more considerate next time. All in all, I can
not be more acquiescent.
1. Do you think you will ever replace it?

Of course yes, I will replace it when it’s necessary.
2. Does anyone else use it?

No, I’m the only one using it. I hate it when someone touches my stuff.
suede /sweyd/(adj): da lộn

irritating /íriteitiη/ (adj): làm phát cáu
tremendously /trɪ'mendəsli/ (adv): ghê gớm, khủng khiếp
purchase /'pə:t∫əs/ (n): sự mua
novel /ˈnɒvəl/ (adj): mới
possess /pə'zes/ (v): có, sở hữu
acquiescent /,ækwwi'esnt/ (adj): ưng thuận, bằng lòng
cost a fortune : đắt tiền
in the latest trend: hợp thời trang
catch someone’s eye: thu hút
keep eyes on: trông coi

PART 3
We’re been talking about things you can buy and I’d like to discuss with you one or two
questions related to this. Let’s consider:
1. What are some products that Vietnam produces for the export market?
● Handicraft
● Agriculture
2. Compare the quality of locally made goods with those from other countries.
● Competitive price
● The quality is the same
● Diversity of styles

3. Evaluate the impact of imported goods on the sales of local products.

● The sales of local products decline.
● More and more enterprises will bankrupt.
4. Describe the attitude of Vietnamese people to locally made products.

● Put their heart into each product.
● Try to make better and better products

TOPIC 6 – SOCIAL PROBLEMS

EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you some question about work:
What’s your job/study?
I’m working as a chef at a very famous restaurant in the city.
Why did you choose to do this work/study?

I chose this job because I had had a strong passion for food ever since I was a young boy. My
mom is a very famous chef also and I want to be like her.

have passion for: đam mê
Do you enjoy your job/study?

Pretty much really, every day at work is another exciting day to me, it’s because I not only have
the chance to put my love into food but I also have opportunities to make someone’s
acquaintance .
What do you dislike about your job/study?

Well, to be honest, I really can’t find such a thing to hate this job. My job is great, my co-
workers are fantastic, they are all very helpful and kind, the salary is also very reasonable. It’s
like I’m living in my dream.
Let’s talk a bit about food:

Are you a good cook?
Yes, I can cook very well but it still depends on my mood. If I am happy, the dish will be
extremely delicious and on the contrary, it may not be as good as it should be if there is
something wrong with me.
mood /mu:d/ (n): tâm trạng

What is your favorite dish?

My favorite one is spaghetti which is one the most popular dishes in my restaurant.
How is it prepared?
Well, it’s kind of simple. First, you need to boil the spaghetti for about 15 minutes. Next you
make the sauce and when you finish the sauce, you pour it on the spaghetti and it’s ready to be
served.
And now for family:

My family has 6 people in it including my grandparents, my parents, my younger brother and
me. My grandfather is in his late 60 as well as was my grandmother, both have retired. My father
is around 40 and he is a doctor at a local hospital. My mother is in the middle of her 30 and she is
running her own business. My brother is in his second year at University of Law and I’m a cook.

Well, due to the fact that my job requires a lot of time. I have to start working from dawn to
dusk. So I only have got little time for my family on some special occasions.
from dawn to dusk : từ sáng sớm đến khuya

Like I said, I only have little time for my family but I enjoy every valuable minute I have with
them. We don’t do anything special actually, just sitting around and enjoy meals or watching the
family’s favorite program on TV together.
valuable /'væljuəbl/ (adj): quý giá
PART 2
Describe a social problem in your community. You should say:
What this problem is
What causes this problem
How many people in your community are affected
by this problem
1. and explain
Does what canaffect
this problem be done todaily
your solvelife?
it.
2. Does this problem cause other related problems?
Response:

Every social community has its own problems and mine is not in the exception either. Also, like
any other communities, ravishment, children abduction, etc are considered as alarming situations
that the goverment should promulgate an approriate solution. But among these problems, the one
that raise the most extreme awareness is how most people today are using social networks,
particularly Facebook to do bad things.
So as you might know, Facebook is a for-profit corporation and online social networking service
based in Menlo Park, California, United States. The Facebook website was launched on February
4, 2004, by Mark Zuckerberg, along with fellow Harvard College students and roommates.
Although, I myself have to face the truth that being a part of Facebook is a really exciting
experience. Thanks to Facebook, I can keep in touch with my friends, buy anything that I need or
amuse myself with some interesting games on it. But what I’m trying to say is, some users are
using it in a wrong way and that leads to some causes. Firstly, as I usually see on Facebook,
some youngsters make a video to insult a particular person in order to catch the attention of other
users.For example, I once watched a clip of a young boy saying bad things about another user
because of the disagreement on an issue between him and another member. He was so young that
I couldn’t believe some of his words were actually come out of from his mouth. Secondly, other
people use it to secrectly sell products which were prohibited by the goverment for example
drugs or weapons and I believe that isn’t a good thing at all. As the matter of fact, these kinds of
act weren’t objected at all but on the contrary, thousands of user were kind of interested in it and
so eventually, the problem gets worse and worse.
The solutions for this issue are not easy. First, Facebook has to control the users better in order to
prevent causes like this one, but it doesn’t mean that Facebook can access way too deeply in the
members’ private lives. Second, users ourselves have to realize what is right or wrong and do
not support those bad users. By that way, we can create a more civilized on-web community and
stop this problem.
1. Does this problem affect your daily life?

Luckily, I wasn’t fascinated with those types of thing so I wasn’t affected at all.
2. Does this problem cause other related problems?

Definitely, from a problem that can only appear on Facebook, the situation can get
worse and create a conflict in the real life. For example, so let’s get back to that boy I
was talking about. After a strong argument, the situation didn’t seem to get better but
worse, they decided to see each other for real and have a face-to-face talk and there
were a fight between gangs. That leads to another problem which is the increasing
rate of crime and violation.
ravisment /´ræviʃmənt/ (n): hiếp dâm

abduction /əb'dʌk∫n/ (n): bắt cóc
corporation /ˌkɔrpəˈreɪʃən/ (n): công ty kinh doanh

alarming /ə´la:miη/ (adj): đáng báo động

promulgate /´prɔməl¸geit/ (v): ban hành
launch /lɔ:ntʃ/ (v): giới thiệu
insult /ɪn'sʌlt/ (v): lăng mạ
prohibit /proʊ'hɪbɪt/ (v): ngăn cấm
civilized /´sivi¸laizd/ (adj): văn minh
PART 3
We’re been talking about social problems and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
related to this. Let’s consider:
1. Does your country have a lot of crime compared to other countries? Why/ Why not?
● Better security system
● Hard punishments for those committed crimes
2. Explain how people in your community protect themselves against crime.

● Pay attention to the people around

● Report to the police if there is any suspicion
3. Discuss the types of sentences that are used to punish criminals.

● Sentenced to death
● Sentenced to jail permanently
4. Evaluate the success of these punishments as a deterrent against future crime.

● The rate of crimes will decrease rapidly.
● More and more criminals will turn over a new leaf.
TOPIC 7 – INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE

EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you about your hometown.
Well, I suppose that I should begin by highlighting the fact that my hometown is Đà Lạt city,
which is a popular destination in Vietnam.
Where is your hometown situated?

It’s located 1,500 meters above sea level on the Langbian Plateau in the southern parts of the
Central Highlands region
What is the population?

The population is approximately 300 thousands with about 200 thousands are in the urban area
alone.
What’s your favorite part of your hometown?

I guess it would be Đà Lạt Market. It’s filled with local specialities such as strawberry jam,
avocado, artichokes.
speciality /´speʃəliti/ (n): đặc sản

avocado /¸ævə´ka:dou/ (n): bơ

artichoke /á:ti¸tʃouk/ (n): cây atisô
Do you think you will always live in your hometown?

Definitely since it’s been an indispensable part of my life. I love every little thing about this
place.
indispensible /ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbəl/ (adj): rất cần thiết
Let’s talk about friendship:

Do you spend more time with friends or family?
I’d say that family is the most important thing so I will definitely spend more time with my
family.
What can you talk to friends about but not your family?
That would be clothing as my family always say that they find it hard to understand fashion these
days.
Do you prefer having lots of friends or a few close friends?

Having a lot of friends seems better to me. By having more friends, I will be more popular.

Now let’s discuss leisure:

Tell me about a popular pastime in your country.
Most of the time, people tend to go outside and catch Pokemons as it’s so interesting that more
and more people are immeresed in it.
Why is it popular?
It’s because to some people, Pokemons have become one of the most beautiful memories during
their childhood. So now with the improvement of technology, everyone can catch their own
Pokemons and that’s why it’s so welcomed.
Do you enjoy it too?

Actually, I don’t. I think it’s kind of a waste of time spending hours catching something unreal. I
prefer playing sports.
PART 2

Describe a person who has influenced your life. You should say:
Who this person is
How and when you met him/her
How you feel about this person
and explain how this person has influenced your life.
1. Have you been able to keep in contact with this person? Why/ Why not?
2. Do you think it’s important to keep in contact with people from your past?
Response:
The person I’m going to talk about today is my teacher from high school. Her name was Miss
Chadwick and she taught quite a few subjects at the school. She had been working there for quite
a few years when I met her I think. We met for the first time in my English class.I remember this
well because she was quite young compared to most of the other teachers in the school so I was
surprised that she was a teacher. In fact she looked more like she could be one of the older
students. So I met her when I was 15, and that was 10 years ago.
I don’t actually know her anymore as we lost contact soon after I left the school, but I still
remember her very well for several reasons. Firstly, she was very kind. She always treated all the
students very well in the class, and I can’t remember her ever shouting at anyone. Also, she had a
really good sense of humour. She would make jokes in the class which most of the other teachers
never did. The other teachers were very serious all the time. And she made the classes a lot of
fun and very interesting, something that I think is very important otherwise you start to get
bored. Oh, and also she explained things very well and very clearly. Often teachers are not able
to do this in a way that students can understand, especially when it's complicated subjects. So
those are the qualities that she had.
The reason she had such an important influence on me is because I was quite a shy person at
school and not very confident, but she helped me to change this. Each year, there was a school
play that would be held in front of all the parents, and that year, when I was 15, Miss Chadwick
was organizing and directing the play. I really didn't want to be in it because I was so shy, but
Miss Chadwick insisted that I take one of the roles, and it was one of the main roles which meant
that I would have to do a lot of speaking. I was so nervous. Anyway, I went ahead and did it, and
on the night I did really well and really enjoyed it. And that really boosted my confidence and
this has helped me to this day. So my teacher Miss Chadwick is the person who has influenced
my life and I will never forget her.
1. Have you been able to keep in contact with this person? Why/ Why not?
Like I said, I haven’t kept in touch with her since I left the school.

2. Do you think it’s important to keep in contact with people from your past?
3. Well, it still depends on who this person is. If this person is a good friend, why not try
to keep the relationship with this friend. And on the contrary, if this friend is a bad
person who always try to use someone for his or her own purposes, there is no point
in soliciting that friend.
sense of humour: khiếu hài hước

go ahead: tiếp tục
boost /bu:st/ (v): đẩy mạnh
solicit /səˈlɪsɪt/ (v): níu kéo
PART 3
We’re been talking about people who influence our lives and I’d like to discuss with you one or
two questions related to this. Let’s consider:
1. Describe a famous person from your country’s history.

● Uncle Hồ ( appearance, personality, feat, etc)
2. Evaluate the contribution of this famous person.

● Free the country
● Motivate others
3. What kinds of people are influential in your society? (Politicians, academics, sports star).
● Raise awareness of the habitat loss.
● Against the 9 dashes boundary
4. Can you identify some negative aspects to people having a lot of influence and power over
others or in certain situations. Can this influence be misused?
● As a boss, the person may use his or her authority to instruct their subordinates to
perform unauthorised or even illegal tasks.
● Some parents may misuse their authority over their children to force their children
into jobs and careers that they one and not according to the dreams of the children.
● Teachers, counselors, doctors and other roles of influence may misuse their positions
in different scenarios.

TOPIC 8 – HEALTH
EXAMINER
full name.

PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you a few questions about your hometown:
Where are you from?
I come from Ha Noi which is also known as the capital of Vietnam. Moreover, Ha Noi is, as the
same time, considered as one of the most important economical and industrial cities.

Yes, I was born and brought up there until my family decided to move to Hồ Chí Minh city when
I was 19.

My hometown is a beautiful city of which the people is very kind and generous. Also, there are
many popular tourist attractions such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Turtle Tower, West Lake,etc.
mausoleum /¸mɔ:zə´liəm/ (n): lăng mộ

Well, there are 2 things that I love about my hometown. Firstly, Ha Noi foods have always left a
deep impression on me since I was very young, particularly, their tastes and smells are
fascinating and irresistible. Secondly, the people there are famous for their warm-heart and
hospitablity as they’re always willing to help other people.

Let’s talk a bit about your accommodation:

Tell me about the place you live.
I’m living with my family in a flat located in district 5 which is very near my workplace but
sometimes the traffic jam is really annoying.
Is it comfortable?
Absolutely, it’s a very big flat with modern equipment and any other things that meet my family
need.
Describe your dream home.

I’ve always dreamt of bulding my own house with 10 rooms all equipped with most modern
appliances. Also, there will be a big garden so I can do gardening everyday when I retired, a
swimming pool and a garage where I keep my own collection of super cars. That would be my
dream home.
Now let’s talk about festivals:

What do you enjoy most about festivals?
What I really like about festivals is the warm and cheerful atmosphere. Like whenever I feel
tired, festival is really the remedy that helps me release stress and rejuvenate myself.

remedy /'remidi/ (n): phương thuốc

rejuvenate /ri´dʒu:və¸neit/ (v): làm khỏe lại
Tell me about your favorite festival.

I think the one that I like most is Christmas. It is an annual festival commemorating the birth of
Jesus Christ, observed most commonly on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration
among billions of people around the world.
commemorate /kə´memə¸reit/ (v): kỷ niệm, tưởng nhớ
Why is it your favorite?

I like it because there weather will be very cool as the city is quite warm all year round which
always makes me tired whenever I go to work. Moreover, the streets and houses will be
decorated beautifully so there will be chances for me to have some photos with my friends.
PART 2

Describe how you keep yourself healthy. You should say:

What kind of food you eat
What routines you have
What you do when you become sick
and explain why these approaches help you to keep healthy.
1. Do you think that good health is important for students?

2. How come people keep themselves healthy when they are travelling?
Response:
Well in order to keep myself vigorous, I wake up early in the morning and then walk for an hour
every day. After that I swim in the nearby swimming pool for about 30 minutes and then I start
my day. Waking up very early and then doing the physical exercise is the healthy habit I have
developed from the early stage of my life. I remember my father insisting us to wake up very
early and then took us to the nearby high school ground for exercise. Nowadays, I wake up from
bed at around 5:30 am and wear my exercise trousers and the pair of shoes. Then I start walking
along with the road that has passed beside the river. The fresh air in the morning is very healthy
for health. Sometimes I take my bicycle and instead of walking. I started doing this early
morning exercise and swimming few years back but nowadays 2 of my friends and cousins
accompany me almost every day. They enjoy doing the exercise very much.The morning is a
time when the air and environment remain fresher than anytime of the day. So breathing the
fresh air, doing the exercises and finally swimming in the fresh water is definitely a very healthy
habit. A sound mind lies on a sound body and this habit that I adopted is pretty helpful for
keeping a sound health and sound mind.At the same time, an approriate eating habit is also a
vital elenment that helps build up my mental and physical health. And the easiest way to keep
yourself in shape is to eat lots of vegetables and reduce sugar and fat. I’ve been following those
tips for nearly 10 years and they’re really effective. Due to the fact that I always look after
myself seriuously so I’m not that easy to be affected by diseases but when I am, I just keep on
the track and sooner or later I’ll be as strong as a horse once again.
1. Do you think that good health is important for students?

Actually yes. It’s believed that students have got to be healthy so that they can absorb
knowledge effectively and as the same time, having good strength helps them work
hard in order to improve the country’s economy.
2. How come people keep themselves healthy when they are travelling?
It’s because by travelling they can experience a new adventurous feeling so that they
can refresh themselves after being hard-working for over a long time and as a result
their mental and physical health are improved and keep them healthy.

vigorous /'vigərəs/ (adj): mạnh mẽ, cường tráng

accompany /ə'kʌmpəni/ (v): đi theo, đi cùng
absorb /əb'sɔ:b/ (v): hấp thụ
mental /'mentl/ (adj): tinh thần
as strong as a horse : khỏe mạnh
PART 3
We’re been talking about good health and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions related
to this. Let’s consider:
1. Compare the general health of your grandparent’s generation with that of your own.
● Improve a lot as the following generations are able to eat a mixed variety of food
● Health is declining because food consists of a large amount of chemicals.

2. What health hazards can you identify in your city.

● Smog
● Water pollution
● Poisonous food
3. Speculate on some of the factors that will make your country a healthier or less healthy place
in the future.
● Reduce industrial pollutants
● Plant more trees
● Recycling
4. Do you think technology can improve our health? How?

● Anticipate factors that cause diseases
● Remind people to do exercise more

TOPIC 9 – EMPLOYMENT
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to begin by asking you some questions about your work or studies.
I’d like you to tell me about your studies/job.
I'm currently a doctor at a hospital in District 1. Particularly, I’m a dermatologist.
dermatologist /¸də:mə´tɔlədʒist/ (n): bác sĩ da liễu

Why did you choose to study/work in this particular field?

It’s because my father is a doctor and I’ve always wanted to be like him since I was in high school.
What do you like most about your studies/job?

What I like most about my job is to see my patients cured from their diseases and live happily.
What do you find difficult about your studies/job?

Sometimes the number of patients can be overloaded which reach to thousands a day and that
causes me a little bit stressed.

Tell me about a popular pastime in your country.
One of the most well-known means of entertainment in my country is the cinema. I usually go
there once or twice a week with my family.

Why is it popular?
I guess it’s so popular among people because some movies have really good sound effects,
awesome action scenes and a well-written plot that fascinate the audiences.
Do you enjoy it too? Why/ Why not?

I do enjoy it pretty much. Actually, I guess I can call myself a movieholic since I always go to the
movies with my family whenever there is a new film. And like I said, movies offer me an
adventurous and exciting feeling that helps me release stressed after a hard-working day so again
I really love watching movies.
Let’s talk about food:

Describe a traditional dish you like.
So among many kinds of cultural dish in my country that I have tried, the one that I left a deep
impression on me is Banh Xeo. I like it because of its taste and smell, also the decoration is
stunning.
Do you like going out to restaurants?

Well, to be honest, I prefer eating at home to restaurants since it’s much more cheaper and cleaner.

How often do you go?

Not very often I suppose, I only go to a restaurant for a meal on special occasions like my wedding
ceremony or a birthday party of a member in the family.
PART 2
Describe a job that you have done. You
should say:
How you got that job
What the job
involved
How long the job
1. Do you value thelasted
experience you gained in this job?
2. Would you consider doingDescribe how
the same well
type of you did the
job again?
job.
Response:
Thanks for the opportunity you gave me to talk about this topic. Actually, I am doing my post
graduation in a university now and I worked in a local Web design and Hosting company for about
one year after I finished my graduation. I would like to talk about this job experience I have. In
fact this is the only paid job I have ever done so far. I joined this company as a junior executive
and when I left the job I was working as an Executive officer. As the company business was related
to website designing, hosting and networking related services and I was an executive there but not
a designer or programmer, my main responsibility was to promote their services, managing
existing clients and giving some technical feedbacks over phone and email. I learned about this
job from an online job portal and their advertisement stated that fresh graduates could apply. I
went through their other job requirements and it was a good match for me. I applied online and in
a few days I was called for the interview. After two weeks they gave me a call and asked me
whether I wanted to join their company or not. I accepted their offer and joined this company in

earlier January, 2014. I did this job for about a year as I remember leaving this job in the early
February of 2015. After I got enrolled in my MBA, I found it very difficult to manage my time
both for the office and classes. I had to decide and I preferred to pay full attention on my studies
and left the job. My experience in this company was very pleasant. In deed I learned a lot about
the client communicating, handling their queries and complaints, promoting different packages
this web hosting company offered and the technologies related to the designing and hosting.
Besides, I was lucky to work with some great colleagues including many designers, developers
and system administrators. The working environment was very friendly and I never felt stressed
working there. The professional knowledge and experience I gained from my first job in this
company would be very important in my career, I hope. I had to work many long hours and that’s
something I often had to struggle with especially after I got enrolled in my Masters degree. I
remember working till midnight sometimes when there were issues related to a server or hosting.
Sometimes deadlines were very frequents for various clients and I had to work without any day-
offs. Apart from these negative aspects, I enjoyed my job and the salary was very satisfactory. I
even got two salary increments in one year and that was very encouraging for me.
1. Do you value the experience you gained in this job?

Absolutely, through this job I have earned a lot of valuable experience in many
aspects and those, I believe to be very important.
2. Would you consider doing the same type of job again?

Although it was kind of interesting having a job like this but because of the
disadvantages I mentioned before I won’t consider doing it again.
executive /ɪgˈzɛkyətɪv/ (n): ủy viên ban chấp hành

promote /prəˈmoʊt/ (v): thăng chức, khuyến khích, sáng lập, đề xướng
client /´klaiənt/ (n): khách hàng
portal /'pɔ:tl/ (n): cửa, cổng
query /´kwiəri/ (n): câu hỏi, thắc mắc
colleaugue /ˈkɒli:g/ (n): đồng nghiệp
administrator /əd´mini¸streitə/ (n): người quản lý, người quản trị
satisfactory /,sætis'fæktəri/ (adj): vừa lòng, thỏa mãn
increment /'inkrimənt/ (n): sự tăng lên

PART 3
We’re been talking about jobs and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions related to this.
Let’s consider:
1. Describe some of the advantages of young people working whilst they study.
● Gain more experience
● Help contribute to the family’s budget
● Pay tuition fee
2. Explain some of the types of part-time work young people in Vietnam do.
● Waiter/ Waitress
● Teaching Assistant
● Security
3. Evaluate some of the factors you need to consider when choosing a career or profession.
● Salary

● Time
● Certain demand
4. Did you/ Will you take these factors into consideration when you choose/ when you will
choose your career or profession?
5. In your opinion, what motivates people to work.

● Approriate compensation
● Great leaders
6. In Vietnam, is it true that most people consider job security more important than having, for
example, more than one career or profession in their lifetime? Why/ Why not?
● A secured and prestigious job is everyone’ dream
● By majoring in many careers, people can learn much more

TOPIC 10 – EDUCATION
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
Let’s begin by talking about your hometown.
Please describe your hometown.
My hometown is HCM city which is considered as one of the most crucial economical cities in
Vietnam.
What kind of work do people do there?

Most people there are white-collar workers, they work with papers but there are also lots of blue-
collar workers, whose job requires manual labor.
white-collar: công chức

manual labor: lao động chân tay
How do they spend their leisure time?

Different people tend to have their own ways to amuse themselves. While some people decide to
spend time at home with their family, others refer a cold drink and have a small talk with their
friends at some coffee shops on the street.
Is it a good place to spend a holiday? Why/ Why not?

Since this city is considered as a modern city, I believe this is truly a good destination to spend
your rest time. It has everything that is needed for a perfect vacation ranging from different types
of accomodation, fascinating scenery to delicious dishes. Not to mention there are also many
famous places for entertainment.
Now let’s talk about holidays:

Where do you usually spend your holidays?
I don’t usually spend my holidays at the same place but them places must have one thing in
common which is the beach. For example, Nha Trang, Vung Tau or Phan Thiet, etc.

Who do you spend your holidays with?

My family for sure, we always spend our holiday together. Besides, by spending hoildays with my
family, I don’t have to worry about the money.
What do you like to do when you are on holiday? Why?

Like I mentioned, my family really love the beach so going for a dip is the first priority, by
swimming we can strengthen our healths and keep us away from diseases. Also, going to the
market is the thing that we usually do on our holiday as we want to buy souvenirs for our relatives.
priority /prai'ɔrəti/ (n): ưu tiên

go for a dip: đi bơi
Let’s discuss festivals:

What are some special days in your country?
There are a lot of special days in my country such as Liberation Day, Hung Kings
Commenmorations, National Day and so on.
How do you celebrate them?

Usually, I and my family will go to the pagoda and pray for luck and happiness, also health for
each member in the family.

Have they changed over time?

No, they’ve been the same over a few decades and I believe it will be that same for a few decades
more.
PART 2
Describe an enjoyable event that you experienced when you were at school. You should say:
When it happened
What was good about it
Who was with you at this event
and say why this event was so enjoyable.
1. Did you enjoy your time at school?

2. Would you recommend your school to others?
Response:
Well, I believe that like everyone else who had been through their time at school, I also have some
unforgettable memories of which the one I remember most was when I was in high school,
particularly during my final year. So it happened in the middle of May, my school prepared a
festival called “Grown-up Ceremony” for all senior-year students.
Each member of each class had to take part in the preparation also. Each class had to prepare for
supplement, built tent as we had to stay at school over night. Also, each class had to arrange some
performances including a fashion show using recycled materials and a cheerleading competition
in order to compete with other classes for prizes. I and my classmates thought that those were

something that we shouldn’t make a fuss over, but when we assailed, it turned out to be extremely
hard and tiring as it took us a few days to assure everything, everybody was exhausted but the
result was over-expected. So when it came to that night, we played as hard as possible as we knew
that night was our last night together and we were like a big family. As for the prizes, we didn’t
win in the fashion thing but we won first place for the best cheerleading performance, I can still
remember how everyone was shouting loudly during our performance as one of my teammates
was thrown into the air. At midnight, when all the high-spirited things were over, it came to a part
which was also very interesting, particularly the “Confession”. The purpose of this part was to give
a chance for everybody to share their inmist feelings through a piece of paper. Everyone gathered
around and listened attentively as each confession was read out loud one by one. Some were about
a secrect love from one person toward another, some were about what they had learnt over 3 years
in high school or how they felt about their special teachers and their school. After that, everyone
started to go to sleep leaving behind an unforgettable memory that should follow each person until
the very last day.
To me, this event was not only interesting but also meaningful as it taught me one important lesson
which was how to cooperate with others. If we hadn’t learnt to join hands, there wouldn’t have
been an amazing trial like that one. So all in all, it was really a truly great experience.
1. Did you enjoy your time at school?

I did enjoy it very much, especially now when I have to work to support myself and
understand many difficulties in life.
2. Would you recommend your school to others?

Definitely, I took pride in studying at my school and I truly think that this school does
have a good educating system that can train you to be a good and helpful citizen.

PART 3
We’re been talking about school experiences and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
1. In Vietnam, are single sex schools or co-educational schools [both boys and girls] the most
popular?
● Most schools are available for both sexes.
2. In your opinion, do you think the learning environment is better for children if they are of
the same sex or of both sexes?
● The environment which includes both sexes offer a better chance for students to study
● The way a girl thinking is different from a boy’s. They can exchange information to
improve themselves
3. Describe the teaching style of teachers in Vietnam today.

● More theories, less practices
4. Speculate on the ways in which learning and teaching styles in Vietnam many change in the
future. Do you think they may more closely resemble those of Western countries? Why/ Why
not?
● More practices, less theories
● Encourage self-study
TOPIC 11 – TEACHING/ LEARNING
EXAMINER
full name.
Thank you. Now I’d like to ask you some questions about yourself. All righ
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you some questions about your hobbies:
What are you hobbies?
Although there is a wide range of hobbies, I’m just into reading and surfing the Internet the most.
be into: thích

I myself consider reading as my most favorite hobby for the reason that reading books makes me
feel very relaxed, especially when reading comics which contain funny, colorful and interesting
images. Moreover, reading helps me to enhance my vocabulary in both Vietnamese and English.
In Vietnamese books, I can learn many traditional folks or proverbs that help me understand deeply
the beauty of my mother tongue. About English books, I can improve not only my reading but also
my communication skills.
enhance /in'hɑ:ns/ (v): gia tăng

folk /fouk/ (n) chuyện dân gian

mother tongue (n) tiếng mẹ đẻ
When did you first take up this hobby?

I remember when I was young, I was always curious about the happinesses my mom expressed
after she finished her books. On my 6th birthday, I told her that I also wanted to experience those
moments, then she gave me a book and my hobby started since then.
Express /iks'pres/ (v) biểu lộ

When I was young, I read every day. But as growing up, there are lots of other things control my
life, so I just read when I have free time, on Sunday night, for example. Sometimes, I also use
reading to reduce stress after facing with hard schoolwork.
Reduce /ri'dju:s/ (v) làm giảm
Let’s discuss your routine:

Is exercise part of your daily routine?
I would say that exercise plays a very important part of my life because all teachers want to
maintain their good appearance and high spirit when working with their students and so do I.
so do I: Tôi cũng vậy

spirit /'spirit/ (n) tinh thần

How do you usually begin your day?

Everyday I usually get up at 5 sharp. After tidying myself up, I go jogging with my family for
about 40 minutes and then come home, take a bath, have breakfast and be ready to school. For me,
how to start your day is a very important thing because once you start it logically, you will find
your whole day a meaningful day.
What do you usually do in the evenings?

According to my work schedule, I still have classes until 6pm everyday. After finishing all things
at work, I come home and have dinner with parents, these time consider as very valuable moments
when I can talk and share all emotions with my parents. Then I spend the whole night preparing
my work or just hanging out with friends when I have nothing to do.
hang out (phr v): đi chơi, giải trí.
Now let’s talk about languages:

What do you find difficult about studying English?
I find vocabulary the most difficult thing to deal with because it is such a wide range of words that
I will never be able to reach all. Moreover, not only do we have to learn academic vocabs but we
also need to acquire for daily idioms and slangs
Idiom /'idiəm/ (n) thành ngữ

Slang /slæɳ/ (n) khẩu ngữ

How often do you use English outside the classroom?

Most of my friends are foreigners who come from both English and non English speaking
countries. But whoever I chit-chat with, I still need to use English because that is the only language
I can use besides my mother-tounge!
Have you learnt any other languages? If so, which ones?

Besides English I’m also keen on studying Chinese and Japanese,but I’ve just studied them for 6
months, so of course, I cannot compare it to my English skills. Studying 3 languages at the same
time doesn’t stress me out. I just find it very interesting and fun.
be keen on: thích

stress sb out: làm căng thẳng
PART 2
Describe a teacher who has influenced you. You should say:
Where you met this person
What subject he/ she taught
What was so special about this person.
and how you felt this person has had an influenced on you.
1. Have you kept in touch/ in contact with this person?

2. Throughout your life do you think you have or will have a similar influence on
another person?
Response:
I consider myself lucky to get several very good teachers throughout my academic years. Among
them I'd like to talk about Mr. Graham, who has an extraodinarily great influence in my
education.
I met Mr. Graham when I was in class 8 and he was our English teacher. Initially we thought that
he would be a moody teacher and we would have to be very polite in front of him. We had got
this impression mostly because of his serious face and tidy dress-up. But soon we found that, he
was very friendly and seasoned in teaching. He never made things complicated and tried over
and over again to explain something to us. He had a very unique way of teaching as he usually
used the grammar and vocabularies we needed to study that day to tell us a story and he tried to
apply it into our common circumstances in life. Thus everything we learned from him was
interesting and that's why not only can I remember most of the theory but I can also use it very
fluently and flexibly in all situations.Before I met Mr. Graham, I hated English. But with his
inspiration, my life has changed completely: I love English, I use it everyday, my major at
university is English and also I can’t continue my life without English. So I’d say that this might
be the biggest luck in my whole life to meet him and to be built a very strong foundation on this
beautiful subject.
1. Have you kept in touch/ in contact with this person?

Although we haven’t seen each other for nearly 4 years, we still keep in touch through
facebook. He is now a teacher, but not in big cities any more. He tries to inspire his
love in English to every person living in some remote areas that he travels to. His
thought and his lifestyle is always a great things for me to chase for.
2. Throughout your life do you think you have or will have a similar influence on
another person?
Well, I must say it’s very challenging and even I haven’t dared to dream that one day I
could be like him. Having said that, I still try my best to better myself and influence
others as I had successfully taken a place in University of Education and still nonstop
improve my English.
academic year /,ækə'demik/ (n) năm học

to be seasoned in …: giỏi trong việc …
complicated /'kɔmplikeitid/ (n) phức tạp

common circumstance /'sə:kəmstəns/: trường hợp thường gặp trong cuộc sống,
keep in touch: giữ liên lạc
influence /'influəns/ (v): tác động
PART 3
We’re been talking about teachers and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions related to
this. Let’s consider:
1. Describe the major purpose of education in society.
● Enhance the country.
● Equip learners with knowledge.

2. Compare the teaching styles of male and female teachers. Why do you think this is?
● Women are more likely than men to invest time planning their courses
● Women spend significantly great proportion of time encouraging and allowing
student participation than men.
Proportion /proportion/ (n) phần
3. Can you identify the role of the teacher in Vietnamese society? Do you think teachers in
Western countries have a similar role? Explain why.
● An instructor and a parent
● Vietnamese teachers are more caring than Western ones.
4. Evaluate a teacher’s power to influence a student’s whole life.

● If the teacher is good, the students will try to take after the teacher
● If the teacher is bad, there will be a bad citizen for the society.

TOPIC 12 – NEWS & THE MEDIA

EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
Let’s begin by talking about your hometown.
My hometown is Can Tho City. Located in the center of Mekong Delta, it is considered as the
biggest most developed city in the south-western Vietnam. In addition, Can Tho has gradually
developed into an attractive tourist sight.
tourist sight: điểm tham quan du lịch

I’d lived there since I was born. And later, when I was 7, I moved to Ho Chi Minh city because of
my Dad’s work requirement.

There are lots of things which make me fall in love with this great place: its scenery, atmosphere
or climate. Above all, I’m proud of our typical fruit the most. Can Tho’s coconut is big, sweet,
delicious and can be found easily in any local markets. That’s why people here love reating guests
coming around their houses with coconut milk and candies instead of tea or soft drinks, like what
people in big cities usually do.
Typical /'tipikl/ (adj): điển hình

Actually, most of the scenic spots there haven’t changed much. Of course it’s not because the local
people don’t take care, it’s because we still want to keep the antique and unique beauty of those
places. On the other hand, the social facilities and qualities of people’s lives here has been
improved a lot, compared to the last time I was here.
Antique /æn'ti:k/ (adj) cổ kính

Unique /ju:'ni:k/ (adj) lạ
Now let’s talk about family:

Describe your family.
Which family members do you live with?
Lucky enough that all of my family members: my parents, my sister and brother are always beside
me through out my life. There hasn’t been any time I have to live far away from them
How well do you get on with them?

That is needless to say, I myself always love, respect and appreciate my parents. In terms of my
siblings, although there is a generation gap among us as my sister is 10-year older than me and
brother is 7-year older, we still get on well really well with each other.
….-year older than me: lớn hơn tôi…tuổi

generation gap: khoảng cách giữa các thế hệ.
Let’s discuss food:

How do you feel about “fast food”?
When the word comes to my mind, I immediately figure out a picture of food which contains an
abundance of fat and oil! Really, I must say that’s not my cup of tea
an abundance of /ə'bʌndəns/ = a lot of : nhiều
Do you like foreign food?

Unfortunately I don’t have much chances to try experiencing foreign food. But I always feel
attracted with the creative and unique ways of cooking created by Masterchef competition’s cooks.
By noticing the ingredient and recipes they usually use, I guess I would love it if I had a chance to
try!
Ingredient /in'gri:djənt/ (n): nguyên liệu

Recipe /'resipi/ (n) cách chế biến
What is your favorite type of food?

There are five major food groups: protein, grains, fruit, dairy and vegetables. Among them, I’m
into fruit the most for the reason that they provide you the largest part of water in your body.
Moreover, they are 100%-bad cholesterol free and most of them are not expensive at all, especially
when you are in Vietnam, the country with an abundant amount of fruit.
PART 2
Describe the media that you rely on to get information about world events. (Newspapers, radio, TV
etc). You should say:
What your favorite way of accessing the news is
How often you use this media
What topics interest you most (e.g. local news/ world news/sports/ business)
and explain why you prefer this form of media to others.
1. Do you think newspapers are a reliable source of information about world and
local events?
2. How important do you think it is to know what is going on in other parts of the
world, and why?
Response:
Today, I’m gonna talk a little bit about the source of media which I use to acquire my knowledge
related to our world’s event, and that’s the online newspapers. Generally speaking, almost all
daily newspapers cover same types of news i.e political, sports, editorial, international, business
etc. Among them, I like the website of Phunu newspaper the best. There, women talk about
perhaps over-coming injuries and illness to keep on running; forming friendships and achieving
goals they never thought possible. It can be really inspirational! It makes me believe that I can
also be able to achieve everything I want as long as I’m willing to chase for my dreams.
I remember when I was young, I read every day. But as growing up, there are lots of other things
take control ofmy life, so I just read when I have free time, on Sunday , for example, one day and
try to catch up with events in a whole week! It sounds a little bit crazy but I still keep this habit
simply because it not only broadens my horizons but also helps me to relax after hard time facing

with schoolwork. Moreover, I find that online news is the most up-to-date and convenient source
for me, personally. That’s why newspaper has always become my supportive life-long friend.
1. Do you think newspapers are a reliable source of information about world and
local events?
Personally, I don’t think all the newspapers are a reliable source of information simply
because besides broadsheets, there is still an existence of second type of newspaper-the
tabloids. And I believe distinguishing those two kinds of papers is not a very difficult
things to do. Having said that, there is still times when editors and writers make some
fault accidentally, so I suggest people should read news from variable sources instead
of just depending on one.
2. How important do you think it is to know what is going on in other parts of the
world, and why?
As the world is developing rapidly everyday, I think it is crucial for every country to
open, extend its relationship and understand clearly what happens to the rest of the
global. Doing that not only helps goverments gain more experience in ruling their
countries but also provides individuals more chances to interact with this high-tech
“running community” which plays a important role in navigating and bettering their
lives.
acquire my knowledge: nâng tầm hiểu biết

i.e = for example
editorial /,edi'tɔ:riəl/ (n) bài xã luận
inspirational /,inspə'reiʃənl/ (adj) truyền cảm hứng
navigate (v) định hướng

PART 3
We’re been talking about the news and media and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
1. Compare the coverage of domestic/ local newspapers with that of overseas newspapers and
explain some differences between the two.
2. What are some of the features of a good newspaper?

● Accuracy
● Fairness and balance
● Clarity
3. Evaluate the effectiveness of different media.

● Satisfy different people’s need
● Different ways of expression depending on the importance of the news

4. To what extent do you think journalists have a responsibility to the public?

● Gather information and present it in a written or spoken form in news stories, feature
articles or documentaries

TOPIC 13 – CULTURE/ ARTS

EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to begin by asking about holidays:
What do you like to do when you go on holidays?
The first and foremost thing I could think of is going on holidays with my friends, lots of friends.
Wandering around new places only by myself is a thing that I’ll never think of. I think we will
spend most of the time visiting some scenery spots, especially some in local areas because I tend
to prefer the unique and antique beauty rather than modern things in big cities.
Wander /'wɔndə/ (v) đi dạo

Antique /æn'ti:k/ (adj) cổ kính
Unique /ju:'ni:k/ (adj) lạ
Where is your favorite place to go on holidays?

I love visiting beaches the most. There, I will dip myself in cool water, take a sun bath and take
some great photos with friends

Who do you usually go on holidays with?

I usually take a journey with my family or friends but I tend to prefer going with my friends to my
family simply because going with friends give me more freedom. For example, I can try any food
that I want, no matter if it’s junk food or fast food and also, I can play cards the whole night long.
Prefer Ving to (Ving): thích hơn

Play cards: đánh bài
Where would you like to go on holidays?

If I had a chance, I would visit America. The first reason is that most of my relatives live there and
they come and see me many times, but I still haven’t got enough money to take my own trip to
visit them. Secondly, there are many famous tourist spots on TV that is completely attractive i.e
Mount Rushmore, The Statue of Liberty, etc. I really want to see by my own eyes.
Let’s discuss accommodation:

Would you prefer to live with your family or on your own? Why?
I myself would prefer to live with my family because I always consider my family as the only
place where you can find people who you sincerely love, believe and be able to rely on. Although
there might be some arguments, they are always there to help you when your are in need. I think
it’s very hard to find other place like that.
Argument /'ɑ:gjumənt /(n) cuộc cãi vã

Would you prefer to live in an apartment or a house?

I would like to live in my own house, because at that time you will be the owner of the area so you
can change anything as per your convenience. Moreover, a private house is also considered as a
more suitable place for my immediate family to live and work together. Last but not least, a private
house provides you privacy and space. A late party with loud music is the thing that you should
never think of when you are living with a horde of people! But with your own house, it’s certainly
possible.
Private /ˈpraɪ.vət/ (adj) cá nhân, riêng tư
If you could live anywhere, where would you live?

As having been living around 18 years in my country, I start to get sick and tired. If I had a chance
I would like to take a journey to European countries, stay in each place for a while and try to study
their language and cultures. As you know there’s no more effective medium than the way you
study with full of interaction
get sick and tired (idm): chán, mệt mỏi

medium (n) = method

Do you enjoy playing sports? Why/ Why not?
I do enjoy sports as it keeps me in good shape and reduce stress which I usually get from work.
My most favorite sports is badminton, I often play it on Sunday.
Reduce /ri'dju:s/ (v) làm giảm


I myself consider reading as my most favorite hobbies for the reason that reading books makes me
feel very relaxed, especially when reading comics which contain funny, colorful and interesting
images. Moreover, reading helps me to enhance my vocabulary in both Vietnamese and English.
In Vietnamese books, I can learn many traditional folks or proverbs that help me understand deeply
the beauty of my mother tongue. About English books, I can improve not only my reading but also
my communication skills.
Enhance /in'hɑ:ns/ (v): gia tăng

Folk /fouk/ (n) chuyện dân gian
mother tongue (n) tiếng mẹ đẻ
Are there any new hobbies that you would like to take up? Why/ Why not?
As the last time I read an English book called “Sollution”, I was introduced to “sculpting”- one of
very common hobbies for both Western children and adults. After watching some videos found on
the Interet, I really admired at how skilful and patient those sculptors were. It seemed like they’d
put all their heart into the products. So really, if I had more free time, I would definitely take a
course of sculpting.
Sculpting /skʌlpt/ (n) bộ môn điêu khắc
Skilful /'skilful/ (adj) khéo léo
PART 2

Describe a museum or art gallery you have visited. You should say:
Where it is
Why you went there
Who you went with
and describe what you remember most about this art gallery/ museum.
1. Would you recommend this art gallery/ museum to other people?

2. Do you like museums/ art galleries in general?
Response:
Although having been to 5-6 museums through out my life, I must state that the time I went to
the War Remnants Museum was the most meaningful memory that I’ll never forget. Opened in
September 1975 shortly after the end of the Vietnam War, the War Remnants Museum is
considered as a significant stop for travelers looking to hear the Vietnamese response to the war
in their country.The atmosphere inside this newly-renovated museum is hushed and somber due
to hundreds of graphic displays, unexploded artefacts which show the horrors faced by both
sides. Personally, I suggest that people who visit the place should pay little attention when taking
children with them because there are some photographs show human remains, corpses, wounded
and maimed villagers, and napalm victims which may terribly affect or disturb young children.
Around one million visitors come to see the war relics in this museum every year. . But the
foreign visitors are more in number than the local visitors and although the opinions are
different, most of them feel sorrow and scared as be unable to bear the horrors of the Vietnam
wars during the visit.
I like the museum for its extraordinary decoration, war relic collections and mostly the
photographs. Though in the beginning the museum was the house of propaganda against the USA,
different changes have taken place in past years and such words or posters marking the propaganda
have been removed. Besides, the museum allows the visitors to write their own thought about the
entire Vietnam War issue and I liked that much as the visitors can liberally write down their own
thoughts and compliments.
1. Would you recommend this art gallery/ museum to other people?

I’ve already recommended my friends and relatives to go there. I think it’s such a big
pity for anyone who don’t try going. You know there’s no more effective medium than
the way you study with full of interaction of picture and real artefacts. Moreover, I’m
sure that this place will teach all the visitors about how important our life is and how
important we should treat people around us well.

2. Do you like museums/ art galleries in general?

Certainly! As I’ve told before, museums are great place for people to study both about
history and the value of your life-things that are hardly ever be taught effectively at
school. I guess when I have children, I would take them to those places more often.
the War Remnants Museum : bảo tàng chứng tích chiến tranh
newly-renovated /'renouveitid/ (adj) mới phục hồi
hushed (adj) /hʌʃt/ = quiet
somber (adj) /'sɔmbə/ ảm đạm
corpse /kɔ:ps/ (n) xác chết
artefact (n)= object
relic /'relik/ (adj) di vật
propaganda /ˌprɒp.əˈɡæn.də/ (n ) sự tuyên truyền
PART 3
We’re been talking about places of cultural significance or interest and I’d like to discuss with you
one or two questions related to this. Let’s consider:
1. Explain whether you think there is a need for museums and art galleries in our society.
● Provide information about culture and heritage

● Reserve important historic assets

Asset /'æset/ (n) tài sản
heritage /ˈher.ɪ.tɪdʒ/ (n) di sản
Reserve /ri'zə:v/ (v) bảo tồn
2. Can you suggest some ways in which museums could be made more interesting places to
visit?
● Decoration
● Prizes earned from mini games related to the questions about history.
3. Evaluate the role museums, galleries and other places of cultural interest play in Vietnamese
society.
● Reserve human heritages
4. Evaluate the role that public artworks, e.g . statues and building play in many cities around
the world.
● Beautify the city
● Express a particular message to the public

5. Can you identify one or two significant public artworks in Vietnam that particularly stand
out and explain their importance to you?
TOPIC 14 – HAPPINESS
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to begin by asking some questions about your hometown:
Can you describe a place of special interest that I could visit near or around your hometown?
My hometown is Can Tho City. It’s not only famous for Can Tho’s Bridge, but also the Cai Rang
floating market, where the tradional way of selling things on boat takes place. On the East bank
of Hau River is Ninh Kieu Wharf, which is well-known for its romantic and poetic scenery. So
taking a boat trip along the river banks on fine weather days could be considered as a great thing
to do.
take place : diễn ra

floating market: chợ nổi
What would be the best way for me to get there?

Can Tho is about 160km far from Ho Chi Minh City, so it takes you about 4 hours traveling by
coach. But now you can take non-stop flights from Ha Noi, HCM City or Phu Quoc Island to Can
Tho with a very reasonable price and short time consuming

non-stop flight:chuyến bay thẳng, không quá cảnh

reasonable price /'ri:znəbl/ giá cả hợp lí
What sort of accommodation could I find there?

Can Tho has a various levels of hotels from 4-star such as West Hotel, Fortuneland Hotel to 2-star
hotels. Moreover, we can also find other types of accomodation i.e hostels, apartments and
guesthouses very easily in the nearby countryside.
Should I go there any special time of the year?

There are only 2 distinct seasons here: the dry season and the rainy one. That the climate doesn’t
change much makes it become very comfortable for both local and visitors. And for sight-seeing
purpose, I suggest that you should go to this place in January, February, March, April, November
and December, which is a usually a time for dry season.
Now let’s discuss family:

Do you live with your family or alone?
Lucky enough that all of my family members: my parents, my sister and brother are always beside
me through out my life. There hasn’t been any time I have to live far away from them.

What do you like most about living with your family/ alone?
Personally I think besides me, there are still lots of people who love living with their family
because it’s the only place where you can find people who you sincerely love, believe and be able
to rely on. Although there might be some arguments, they are always there to help you when your
are in need. I think it’s very hard to find other place like that.
What do you find difficult about living with your family/ alone?
The most difficult thing coming to me is privacy. Living in a place with lots of people around you
makes it difficult to cry or to hide something confidential. As living in a “small community”, you
need to obey the rules no matter if they’re logical or suitable with you or not. For example, I find
it irritating when I have to come home before 11pm.
Confidential /,kɔnfi'denʃl/ (adj) bí mật

Irritating /'iriteitiɳ/ (adj) khó chịu, bực bội
Let’s talk about food:

What is the main meal in your country?
Vietnamese people usually have 3 common meals a day: breakfast, luch and dinner. Among them,
breakfast is considered as the main meal due to a common thought that people should eat much in
the morning to supplement nutritions for a long night sleep without eating anything. And we should
eat delicious food at noon and eat less in the evening when our body is tired to digest things.
Supplement /'sʌplimənt/ (v, n) bổ sung

Do you like eating foods from other countries?

Unfortunately I don’t have much chances to try experiencing foreign food. But I always feel
attracted with the creative and unique ways of cooking created by Masterchef competition’s cooks.
By noticing the ingredient and recipes they usually use, I guess I would love it if I had a chance to
try!
Ingredient /in'gri:djənt/ (n): nguyên liệu
Recipe /'resipi/ (n) cách chế biến
How have eating habits changed in your country in the last few decades?
I would say that in my country, eating habits haven’t changed much in the last few decades.The
staple foods here are rice and noodles, and these certainly have remained popular because they are
cheap, nutrious as well as filling. However, people have become more interested in eating fast food
and junk food as they are delicious and convinient for people who are always rush through their
work.
Filling /'filiɳ/ (adj) tràn đầy, nhiều

rush through st: hối hả vì điều gì đó
PART 2
Describe an event or activity that has made you happy. You should say:
What this event or activity is
How often you have participated in this event
or activity
Whether you would do it more often if you
could
andyou
1. Do explain
thinkhow your lifeashas
of yourself been enriched
a person by this
who enjoys life?event
Why/orWhy
activity.
not?

2. What makes you happy?
Response:
Today, I’m gonna talk a bit about an event which made me happy. That was the time when I joined
my friend’s birthday party. The party took place last Saturday evening, in an Chinese restaurant
near my house. There were about ten of us, most of whom I have known since university and we
even close friends that time. As planned before, we gathered at the Chinese restaurant, I gave my
friend a birthday card and a handmade teddy bear,which he always wanted to have one. Then we
ordered some really nice, cheap and delicious food. While we ate, everyone chatted happily. Lots
of good and even embarrasing momments were reminded made me felt both happy and warm.
After the main course, the waiter brought out a cake and we sang “Happy Birthday” song together.
After that, we decided to go home early, we said goodbye and hugged each other warmly.
One will never understand how happy I was when I had a get together with my old friends and
catched up with what my friends had been up to. Moreover, it was also a great chance to wind
down after a hard week at work.
With all the reasons above, I strongly believe this party was such a very meaningful moment that
I would never forget.
1. Do you think of yourself as a person who enjoys life? Why/ Why not?
Although there are lots of ups and downs happening around my life, I still enjoy it very
much. As an ambitious person, I always list out goals that challenge me every day. And
that’s needless to say, when I achieve those goals, I’m happy and excited. But when I
cannot, there are thousands of friends and relatives who are always there to cheer me
up and help me to relax and be more confident. So at any situation, I still find every
day is a meaningful day
2. What makes you happy?

Some of my happiness come from very basic and simple sources. I feel pleased when
I can live with my family and friends every day and see all good things coming to them.
In addition, studying new things, whatever it is, still make me happy and satisfied
because I love the way my curiosity is solved and I’m a bit more mature!
Remind /rɪˈmaɪnd/ (v) gợi nhắc lại

Bring out (phr v) đem ra
Get together : buổi họp mặt
ups and downs (idm) thuận lợi và khó khăn
curiosity /,kjuəri'ɔsiti/ (n) sự tò mò

PART 3
We’re been talking about happiness and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions related
1. Describe some of the factors that make one family happy and another unhappy?
● Being able to fairly share various tasks to each individual.
● Contribute to family’s budget
● Caring and understading
2. Do you think that it is essentially the same things that make all people happy, regardless of
cultural background or ethnicity?
Happiness is something which come out freely from our mind. And besides, culture and ethnicity
are 2 important things which have been set in one individual’s mind for thousand of years. So we
can easily see that it is very difficult to break this connection and even it’s a useless thing to do.
By doing that, we will accidentally force the cultural diversity to disappear. Which is more, if
everyone is happy with the same things, that will soon be not a happiness anymore.
Connection /kə'nekʃn/ (n) sự liên kết

cultural diversity : đa dạng văn hóa
3. Assess the importance of wealth in determining a person’s happiness.

● The living standard is better
● They can buy whatever they want
● Being able to fully support the family
● Help the poorer
4. Can people in developing countries be as happy as people in developed countries?

● People in developing countries have a better family bonding
● Job stress and busy life in fast world countries are often the reason people suffer from
stress related issue

TOPIC 15 – THE NEWS/ CURRENT AFFAIRS
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
Let’s begin by talking about your work or studies:
I’m working as a teaching assistant at an English center near my house.
Why did you choose to study/ work in this particular filed?

I am now a freshman in university of Pedagogy, my major is The English Language. I decided to
concentrate particularly on this field because among those subject, I’m only a big fan of English.
I find it very easy and interesting to catch up with. Also, I want to share my English knowledge
with all of people in the world and learn some special things from them.
Freshman /'freʃmən/ (n) sinh viên năm nhất

Well, to be honest, I never really enjoy studying, but I would say that it gives me some time to
myself, and if I achieve what I set out to do and learn some new information, then I guess I will
feel pretty satisfied.

What do you find difficult about your studies/ job?

I find vocabulary the most difficult thing to deal with because it is such a wide range of words
that I will never be a ble to reach all. Moreover, not only do we have to learn academic vocabs but
we also need to acquire for daily idioms and slangs.

Now I’d like to talk about travel:

Have you ever been overseas?
I’ve been overseas twice. Once in Singapore and once in China. But I just went their for travelling
purpose, I didn’t stay there for a long time.
Which countries would you like to visit? Why?

If I had a chance, I would like to visit America. The first reason is that most of my relatives live
there and they come and see me many times, but I still haven’t got enough money to take my own
trip to visit them. Secondly, there are many famous spots on TV that completely attracted i.e Mount
Rushmore, The Statue of Liberty, etc. I really want to see by my own eyes.

Where in Vietnam would you most like to visit? Why?

Although I have been living in VN for over 20 years, I didn’t visit much beaches here for the fact
that I cannot swim, so my mother is always afraid of my safety. But I really hope that I could there
one day! I want to dip myself in cool water,go sailing, take a sun bath and take some great photos
with friends
afraid of /ə'freid/ : sợ
Let’s discuss your accommodation:

Do you live in a house or a flat?
I’m living in the private house with my family on 3/2 Street. And frankly speaking, I’ve never
lived in an apartment any time of my life.
Can you briefly describe it?

As I’ve said before, I am now living in a house which has got a living room, 5 bedrooms with
attached washroom for each member and a kitchen. Although my house is quite small, there is a
spacious, cleaned and beautiful garden which is built and taken care of by my father.That also the
place where my family love most. We usually gather there on Sunday night and catch up with each
other
spacious /'speiʃəs/ (adj) rộng rãi

gather /'gæðə/ (v) tụ họp

What are the advantages of living in a house/ flat?

An independent house is always considered as a status symbol. This could be one of the reasons
that majority of the film stars own a house rather than a flat. Another advantage could be; a
personalised space is gained by living in a house. You are the owner of the area so you can change
it as per your convenience. Moreover, a private house is also considered as a more suitable place
for extended family to live and work together. However, living in a house comes with a high
maintenance cost and extra effort.
On the other hand, the pros of living in an apartment also cannot be ignored. The maintenance is
taken care of by the society. There is a helpline number that you can call at any time of the day for
any issue that you face. Moreover, it is considered a much safer place to live. For instance, a thief
would think twice before entering to a place where there are too many people. The only discomfort
faced by people living in apartments is lack of privacy and space. A late party with loud music is
the thing that you should never think of when you are living with a horde of people!
Majority /mə'dʤɔriti/ (n): phần lớn

extended family: kiểu gia đình chỉ có bố mẹ và con cái
helpline number: đường dây hỗ trợ
a horde of people: nhiều người
PART 2
Describe a recent news story you’re heard or read about. You should say:
How you heard about it
When it happened
What people, places, events were involved
and explain how you felt when you heard about this news story.
1. Do you keep up with the news and current affairs regularly?

2. Do you think most of the stories being reported are positive or negative?
Does this have all affect on you at all?
Response:

The story that I am going to talk about is a fascinating story on how an eight year’s old kid
saved more than 500 people from possible fatal casualty. I read this story a year ago in a daily
newspaper.
One day, an eight years old boy was playing with some other kids in the evening near a rail
junction and suddenly noticed that a part of the rail track was severely damaged. While other
kids ignored that ,this particular boy was different. He went home and told his father that
something bad is going to happen. They then came back to the junction and took a great deal of
hassle to convince the rail officers to go and visit the damage. They officers were reluctant to do
so and thought it was a child’s imagination. But the boy was adamant that finally he was able to
convince them that something terrible might happen if they do not take prompt actions. When all
of them saw the severe damage on the rail track, they were all surprised about how terrible the
situation was. Unfortunately, it was evening and very few people were in the station so repairing
the harmed rail road was impossible at that time. Then, they immediately informed the nearby
station and warned them so that the train does not leave that junction.
Next day many rail supervisors and employees visited the place and they were amazed by the
bravery the boy showed to save people from an approaching peril. I followed the news story and
next day it made the headline of every local newspaper. As far I remember the boy was given many
gifts by the rail authorities as well as the local administration. The great courage of a small kid
saved the lives of many and that was an indeed worth news story to let the people of the whole
country know and feel proud of.
1. Do you keep up with the news and current affairs regularly?
When I was young, I read every day. But as growing up, there are lots of other things
control my life, so I just read it once a week. But I’m really into the feeling when you
are curling up on the sofa with your warm blanket, reading news and being in lots of
emotional levels. So I usually spend all of Sunday just to catch up news of all week.
2. Do you think most of the stories being reported are positive or negative?
Does this have all affect on you at all?
It’s true that when I read the news, I also feel like the only things reported are terrible,
depressing events. . There are some explanations that I could come up with. At the
writer’s side, I think they are drawn to reporting bad news because sudden disaster is
more compelling than slow improvements. At the reader’s side, we pay attention to bad
news, because on the whole, we think the world is rosier than it actually is. When it
comes to our own lives, most of us believe we're better than average. This pleasant
view of the world makes all bad news more surprising and salient with the question:
“How could they dare to do those bad things like that?” Or ‘How cold blooded they
are!” And that’s also why I tend to be more attracted with bad news, something like
corruption, set-backs, hypocrisy and so on – rather than neutral or positive stories.

Casualty /'kæʤjuəlti/ (n) sự thương vong, chết chóc

rail junction: Đường ray xe lửa
hassle /ˈhæs.əl/ sự phiền nhiễu
convince = persuade: thuyết phục
adamant /'ædəmənt/: cứng rắn
prompt action : hành động kịp thời
peril /ˈper.əl/ :hiểm họa
Average /'ævəridʤ/ (n) trung bình
Compelling /kəmˈpel.ɪŋ/ (adj) hấp dẫn
Hypocrisy /hi'pɔkrəsi/ (n) đạo đức giả
PART 3
We’re been talking about news and current events and I’d like to discuss with you one or two
questions related to this. Let’s consider:
1. Describe the main purpose of a newspaper.
● Giving information
● Release stress

2. Explain how reliable information obtained from newspaper is.

● All the events are witnessed by the reporters
● The manuscript is considered carefully before printed
manuscript /'mænjuskript/ (n) bản thảo
3. Do journalists have a responsibility to the public? How would you describe this
responsibility?
● If the reporter provides incorrect information, he will lose the job
4. How big an influence do journalists have on the public?

● The journalists provide the information which is read by a lot of people and they
believe so.
5. Speculate on the way the Internet will change the way reporting is done in the future.
● Online newspaper will replace paper materials
TOPIC 16 – FAMILY
EXAMINER

full name.
PART 1
I’d like to begin by talking about your hometown:
Where is your hometown situated?
My hometown is Can Tho City. Located in the center of Mekong Delta, it is considered as the
biggest most developed city in the south-western Vietnam. In addition, Can Tho has gradually
developed into an attractive tourist sight.
What is the population?

Frankly speaking, I haven’t paid much care to this issue. According to the video introducing Can
Tho that I watched last week, I guess the population is around 1.5 million and it’s believed to be
increased more in the future.
Population /,pɔpju'leiʃn/ (n) dân số
What’s your favorite part of your hometown?

There are lots of things which make me fall in love with this great place: its scenery, atmosphere
or climate. Above all, I’m proud of our typical fruit the most. Can Tho’s coconut is big, sweet,
delicious and can be found easily in any local markets. That’s why people here love reating guests
coming around their houses with coconut milk and candies instead of tea or soft drinks, like what
people in big cities usually do.
Typical /'tipikl/ (adj): điển hình

Do you think you will always live in your hometown?

Although sometimes I really miss my hometown, I’ve already set up a quite stable and well-
organized life here in HCM City with a nice house in a nice neighborhood, a good place to study
in a prestigious university. Besides I also want to travel around to broaden my horizons. All of
reasons above deter my from the idea of living in my hometown the whole life. But when I succeed,
I definitely come back there, contribute my effort to the development of Can Tho City.
Prestigious presˈtɪdʒ.əs/ (adj) nổi tiếng, danh giá

broaden my horizons: nâng tầm hiểu biết
Now let’s discuss leisure activities:

What do you do in your free time?
In my spare time, I’m usually keen on watching TV, listening to music, surfing the Internet and so
on.
Be keen on = like
What are your favorite types of entertainment?

Among those, I love reading most. It’s considered as my most favorite hobby.

Do you prefer staying at home or going out in the evenings?

To be honest, I would rather stay home than go out at night. I usually come home from work tired
and exhausted so I don’t have any energy to go out again anymore. Moreover, I think evening is a
great time for family-gathering.
Tell me about your accommodation:

Do you live in a house or a flat?
I’m living in the private house with my family on 3/2 Street. And frankly speaking, I’ve never
lived in an apartment any time of my life.
Can you briefly describe it?

As I’ve said before, I am now living in a house which has got a living room, 5 bedrooms with
attached washroom for each member and a kitchen. Although my house is quite small, there is a
spacious, cleaned and beautiful garden which is built and taken care of by my father. That also the
place where my family love most. We usually gather there on Sunday night and catch up with each
other
Attached /ə'tætʃt/ (adj) gắn liền với

spacious /'speiʃəs/ (adj) rộng rãi
gather /'gæðə/ (v) tụ họp
What are the advantages of living in a house/ flat?

An independent house is always considered as a status symbol. This could be one of the reasons
that majority of the film stars own a house rather than a flat. Another advantage could be; a

personalised space is gained by living in a house. You are the owner of the area so you can change
it as per your convenience. Moreover, a private house is also considered as a more suitable place
for extended family to live and work together. However, living in a house comes with a high
maintenance cost and extra effort.
On the other hand, the pros of living in an apartment also cannot be ignored. The maintenance is
taken care of by the society. There is a helpline number that you can call at any time of the day for
any issue that you face. Moreover, it is considered a much safer place to live. For instance, a thief
would think twice before entering to a place where there are too many people. The only discomfort
faced by people living in apartments is lack of privacy and space. A late party with loud music is
the thing that you should never think of when you are living with a horde of people!
Majority /mə'dʤɔriti/ (n): phần lớn

extended family: kiểu gia đình chỉ có bố mẹ và con cái
helpline number: đường dây hỗ trợ
a horde of people: nhiều người
PART 2
Describe your family. You should say:
How many people there are in your family
Where each family member lives
Which family members live together
and discuss whether or not your family is a typical Vietnamese
family.
1. What are the benefits of living ill a family like yours?

2. Are there also any disadvantages?
Response:
Without a family, one cannot have a decent and happy life or either can they find their life
meaningful at all. That’s why in my opinion, a family is the most important place for any
individual and it is worth being considered as the root of every person.

I come from a lovely 5-member family. They are my parents, my younger sister and younger
brother and me. We five people live in our private house on 3/2 street. The all members of the
family are highly intimate with me and I am to them too.
To start with my mother, she is the sweetest person and the kindest hearted woman I have ever
seen. She is creative, helpful and loving in nature. my mother is a housewife and she takes care
of the family. She always remains busy with her household chores as we do not have any
domestic help.
My father is the cornerstone of our family and works hard to win the bread for our family. He is
major in oil production. Although he usually have to leave home from dawn to dusk because of
his heavy workload, he always cares and loves all of us and holds himself responsible for our
family's well-being. Besides, my father really has a great green thumb. Thanks to him, our
garden is so lively with full of colorful birds and flowers.That’s our habit to sit there and chit
chat with each other for a whole night. In short, my father is our hero, friend and great mentor.
My elder brother (John) and elder sister (Kathy) are all an exemplary young people and children
whom every parent would dream to have. They are very now working as computer programmers
in FPT computer company as they have a real talent with numbers, a creative soul and art are
their passion. Furthermore, they are also my best friends and perfect psychologists.
A typical Vietnamese family is the one which has around 4-5 members( a couple with 2
children).There, order, harmony and cares are considered as the most important things to follow.
And I would say that these two features above completely matches my family as the
interpersonal relationship with all the family members in my family is fine and we do truly care
for each other. When someone is in any sort of trouble or in any difficulty, we try to provide
necessary supports immediately so the situation could be solved. I never dare to imagine what
my life would be without my family. When I was a child, my family members provided me with
all forms of necessary supports and I am highly grateful to my parents for their unconditional
supports and still they are playing the same roles despite the fact that I’ve already turned 19. I am
also happy with my two siblings and cannot imagine my life without them. My family is my life
and thus it is most important for me than any other thing.
1. What are the benefits of living ill a family like yours?

I myself always feel lucky to be a member in my family for many reasons. One of those
is the number of members. There are 5 people in my family, which is enough, not too
many and not to few. To be more specific, if your family only have 2,3 people, it creates
loneliness and financial problem. On the other side, if a family has too many people,
you can’t take care all of them and there too many ideas for one problem which can
easily lead to arguments.

2. Are there also any disadvantages?

It might be a little bit embarrassing to talk about this disadvantage because this directly
affects on me. At first, I thought being a youngest child in my family was the happiest
thing ever because everything was done by my parents, sister and brother, even some
of my homework at school. It was true for a long time, but not now. As I grow older, I
realize that I am too dependant on my family. I can’t do things myself and tend to be
lazy or scared when I have to give out a decision. Anyway, I am putting effort to change
my lifestyle in a positive way. Beside this feature, I don’t see any other disadvantge.
Worth /wə:θ/ (v) xứng đáng
Intimate /'intimit/ (adj) thân mật
Cornerstone ˈkɔːr.nɚ.stoʊn/ (n) trụ cột
responsible for: có trách nhiệm với
exemplary /ig'zempləri/ (adj) mẫu mực
psychologist /sai'kɔlədʤist/ (n) chuyên gia tâm lí
interpersonal relationship /,intə'pə:snl/: mối quan hệ giữa cá nhân với nhau
To be more specific: cụ thể hơn
Dependant /di'pendənt/ (adj) dựa dẫm

PART 3
We’re been talking about family in Vietnam and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
1. Describe the role of the family in Vietnamese society.
● Show the much needed model of love between husband and wife
● Foster an environment where children learn skills, morals and values
2. Compare your family with another family you know well.
3. Speculate on how the nature of families many change in the future.

● single parenting
● More than 3 children per family

4. Discuss the attitude of Vietnamese people to single parent families.

● They are not accepted by the society
5. Evaluate the effects of divorce on a family.

● Hurt children
● Cost money
● Reduce living standards

TOPIC 17 – WOMEN
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I am now a freshman in university of Pedagogy, my major is The English Language. Besides, I’m
also working as a teaching assistant at an English center, just to get my feet wet.
Get my feet wet: làm quen với môi trường mới

As I told you before, my major at university is The English Language. I decided to concentrate
particularly on this field because among those subject, I’m only a big fan of English. I find it very
easy and interesting to catch up with. Also, I want to share my English knowledge with all of
people in the world and learn some special things from them.
Freshman /'freʃmən/ (n) sinh viên năm nhất

Concentrate /'kɔnsentreit/ (v) tập trung

Well, to be honest, I never really enjoy study, but I would say that it gives me some time to myself,
and if I achieve what I set out to do and learn some new information, then I guess I feel pretty
satisfied.

I find vocabulary the most difficult thing to deal with because it is such a wide range of words
that I will never be able to reach all. Moreover, not only do we have to learn academic vocabs but
we also need to acquire for daily idioms and slangs.


Well not really, almost everyday I go to work but when I’m off my duty I usually hang out with
my friends for leisure pursuits or I just stay home and watch TV.
leisure pursuits /pəˈsjuːt/: mục tiêu giải trí

I start my day with doing personal hygiene, after that I rush to work and begin my daily work until
12 sharp and then have an interval to rest between 2 shifts. Then again working until 5pm and go
home. In the evening, I spend time finishing my work tasks which I haven’t done yet or If I’m free
I will ask my fellows out for a cup of coffee or watch TV.
Interval /'intəvəl/ (n) khoảng thời gian


Nothing much, I often take my children to my parents so as to let them visit their grandparents in
the day. In the evening, I usually prepare for my work or go to some places to have a chance to
make somebody’s acquaintance.

Tell me about a popular festival in Vietnam
Vietnam is the country with many beautiful festivals. Besides the Tet Holiday, the Mid-Autumn
festival is one of the most famous festivals and it is a traditional celebration for Vietnamese
children. The Mid-Autumn festival dates back to the Rice Civilization of the Red River delta, over
4,000 years ago. It is held on the 15th day on the 8th lunar month (often in late September or early
October) and it is celebrated for a whole day. On this day, the adults and the parents prepare many
different type of foods - Moon cakes, candies, biscuits, jellies, and fruit. There are also many
beautiful and colorful laterns and lion dance which attract not only young people but also adults.
Nowadays, although some of the traditional toys have been replaced by modern toys, the meaning
and the performance has been kept and developed. It is certain that the Mid-Autumn day is
important and famous for Vietnamese people.
Rice Civilization: nền văn hóa lúa nước

Red River delta: sông Hồng
8th lunar month: tháng 8 tính theo lịch âm
Lantern /ˈlæn.tən/ (n) lồng đền

Why is it so popular?
Because the traditional time to have this festival is usually after harvesting the crops, its main
purpuse is to congratulate Vietnamese hard-woking farmers for the full harvest. For other, full
moon festival is organized at the beginning of the new school year, so it is seen as one of the large
last party for children to join before they begin their successful school year. Moreover, although it
first celebration dated back 3000 years ago to the Shang Dynasty and there are hundreds of other
festivals besides, the meaning and the performance still has been kept and developed each year.
Harvest /'hɑ:vist/ (v) thu hoạch , (n) vụ mùa

Dynasty /'dinəsti/ (n) triều đại nhà…
Are festivals an important part of life in Vietnam?

Traditional festivals have an important role to play in Vietnamese people’s due to some reasons
below. Firstly, a festival is an environment for people to go back to their roots. Secondly, it creates
an association and honours community strength as it is an environment for people to express their
creativeness and culture. Lastly, festivals are living, breathing museums which have full of culture
and a heritage left behind by our predecessors for posterity.
Root /ru:t/ (n) nguồn cội

Predecessor /'pri:disesə/ (n) tổ tiên
Posterity /pɔs'teriti/ (n) thế hệ con cháu
PART 2
Describe the role of the women in your family. You should say:
What tasks the women in your family do at home
Whether the women in your family have jobs
Which family members are responsible for taking care of
children
and discuss whether or not the lifestyles of the women in your family are typical in Vietnamese
1. Did your grandmother have a similar lifestyle to your mother?

2. Do the men in your family help around the house?
Response:
Today I’m gonna tell you a little bit about the two women in my family: my mother who is a model
of women in the past with some great domestic characters. The second one is my sister, who
represents for nowadays modern women.
Let’s talk about my mother first. My mother is a housewife and she doesn’t have any job
throughout her life, but it doesn’t mean that she has poor-educational level. My mother spends
most of her time taking care of us and doing housework. In her free time, she always keeps
updating herself with recent news on newspapers from both TV and online sources. There is also
one feature which my mother owns from the lifestyle in the past and that is discipline. My mother
believes everything has its own rule that we need to follow and it’s always bad to mix it up with
new things. That’s why all the dishes she cook have traditional taste and there might be not even
a little creation there. But frankly speaking, if there hadn’t been my mother’s rule, my family
wouldn’t have been such a warm and well-organized place like that .
My sister represents for nowadays modern women. She is a marketer in a foreign trade company.
It’s funny that although she has achieved so many goals both at work and in society, she even can’t
fry an egg herself. So it’s clearly enough that my mother’s lifestyle is typical in some good old
days and my sister is one of those today broad-minded women. Both of those two types still exist
together in Vietnam society nowadays as my my sister and my mother are still there to spice up
my whole family.
1. Did your grandmother have a similar lifestyle to your mother?

It’s unfortunate that my grandma had already passed away before I was born. But
according to my mom’s recount, she always looks up to her mother character and
most of my mom’s skills were taught by grandma, so I guess that grandma might
have had a similar lifestyle with mom.
2. Do the men in your family help around the house?
I always talk to my friends that it’s considered as the biggest happiness for me to
have my father and my brother as my heroes. Besides those achievements that they
get at work and in society, they are also very good at housework. Whenever any
household goods gets out of order, there are my father and brother’s fix. Whenever

I want to build a small table for the rapid increase of my books, there are my father
and brother’s help. Besides, they can even cook when my mother is on her holiday.
On some short words, I’m very proud of them
represent for /,repri'zent/ (v) tiêu biểu cho

discipline /ˈdɪs.ə.plɪn/ (n) luật lệ, quy tắc
spice up one’s life (phr v) làm tăng gia vị cho cuộc sống
recount /'ri'kaunt/ (n) sự tường thuật
household goods (n) dụng cụ dùng trong nhà.
PART 3
We’re been talking about the role of women in the Vietnamese family and I’d like to discuss with
you one or two questions related to this. Let’s consider:
1. About what population of Vietnamese women work outside of the home?
● More and more women are going to work

2. Speculate on how the roles of men and women in Vietnamese families may change in the
next 20 years
● Both go to to work to contribute to the family’s budget
● Responsibilities are shared equally
● Their children have to be self-sufficient
3. Justify or otherwise the current roles that men and women perform in typical Vietnamese
families.
● Most men go to work to earn money
● Women are housewifes
4. Give reason for the rise in the number of people living only with their nuclear family (not
with grandparents).
● The need of personal space

TOPIC 18 – TOURISM
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to begin by asking you about your hometown:
Please describe your hometown.
My hometown is Long An which is a coastal city and capital of Khánh Hòa Province, on the South
Central Coast of Vietnam. Nha Trang is well known for its beaches and scuba diving and has
developed into a popular destination for international tourists, attracting large numbers of
backpackers, as well as more affluent travelers on the south-east Asia circuit.
backpacker: Tây ba lô
affluent /´æfluənt/ (adj): giàu có
circuit /'sɜ:rkɪt/ (adj): chu vi
What kind of work do people do there?

Most people there are fishermen, they set and catch a mixed variety of aquatic wildlife everyday.
Tourism, as the same time, is quite popular so there are a lot of people working in the travel
industry too.
aquatic /ə´kwætik/ (adj): sống ở nước

How do they spend their leisure time?

Nha Trang people are not so interested in spending their leisure time in crowded places so after
work they just go home and have fun with their family.
Is it a good place to spend a holiday? Why/ Why not?

Definitely, Nha Trang is considered as one of the most fascinating destinations in Vietnam. With
its beaches and many interesting outdoor activities, this is truly a perfect place for those still
searching for a suitable place.

My favorite food is Pizza of which origin was from Italy.

I can eat it most of the time without getting fed up with it.

To be honest, I’m not that good at cooking but I can make extremely good fried rice with
vegetables and my mom was the one taught me to make that dish.
Tell me about your friends:

Do you spend more time with friends or family?
Since I’m a student and I have to spend most of my time with my friends at school so I find it quite
difficult to spend time with my family.
What can you talk to friends about but not your family?
Well, I guess it would be my studying, because of the fact that my friends are students like me so
I think it would be easier discussing exercises with my friends.
Do you prefer having lots of friends or a few close friends?

I would rather have as few friends as possible than have many friends as long as my friends are
truthful, honest and caring.
PART 2

Describe a travel experience you have had. You should say:
Where you went and how you got there
Why you went to this place
How you heard about this place
and describe what you like or didn’t like about this place. Why/ Why not?
1. Do you enjoy travelling?

2. Would you travel more if you had the opportunity?
Response:
I’d like to tell you about a memorable trip to Sapa, a mountainous town from French colony in the
north of VN that I made last summer. Actually I started searching about the place when I first
heard about snowing in Sapa on mass media in the winter of 2010. I was so in love with the
beautiful landscape of that mountainous area. Then I had dreamt of Sapa before I saved up enough
for the vacation of 5 days last year in June. To me, it was a dream come true event. I'd taken an 1
hour flight to Hanoi before moving up to Sapa by train. While I was spending time up there, I met
and made friends with some tourists, visited all well-known places of the town: The gate to heaven,
Thac Bac waterfall and the love market in a Saturday night. I enjoyed new food there, especially
fresh fish caught in the river next to the town. I took hundreds of photos of ladder rice fields. They
were incredible and unique. Not only the landscape that I liked, I also in love with the weather.
When Ho Chi Minh city was suffering from a hot summer, people in Sapa were enjoying the
coolness of 19 Celsius degree. The sun appeared for a while and then hid behind the thick cloud.
In the early morning, cloud was surrounding you when you opened the door of the hotel which is
situated at about 300 meters above the sea level. It was like I was living in another planet even
though it was just 2 hours of flight away from my city . After that 5 days, I felt completely
rejuvenated and full of energy. “Travelling forms a young man”. The vacation in Sapa opened my
eyes and widened my knowledge of rich cultures of ethnic groups in the region. Without that trip,
I, for sure, wouldn't have realized my home country's beauty and wouldn't have had appreciation
to the natural creativity as well as heritages of human beings. Sapa has become my favorite place
ever since then.
1. Do you enjoy travelling?

Definitely, through travelling I can know more about different places and enhance my
knowledge.
2. Would you travel more if you had the opportunity?

Like I said, I really love travelling so if I had more opportunities I will definitely do it.

mountainous /´mauntinəs/ (adj): đồi núi

mass media: phương tiện truyền thông đại chúng
ladder rice field: ruộng bậc thang
incredible /ɪnˈkrɛdəbəl/ (adj): không thể tin được
unique /ju:ńi:k/ (adj): độc nhất
planet /´plænit/ (n): hành tinh
ethnic /'eθnik/ (adj): thuộc dân tộc, tộc người
travelling forms a young man : đi một ngày đàng học một sàng khôn
PART 3
We’re been talking about the role of women in the Vietnamese family and I’d like to discuss with
you one or two questions related to this. Let’s consider:
1. Compare the kinds of tourist trips that Vietnamese/ local people and foreign visitors make
within Vietnam. Are they similar or different?

2. Evaluate the importance of tourism to your country.

● Provide jobs
● Raise the profile of the place generally.
3. Discuss any disadvantages you think there may be for Vietnam in having a large tourist
industry.
● Tourism can often cause environmental damage
● The commercialization of culture can undermine the soul of a tourist destination
4. Speculate on how important you think the tourism industry will be for Vietnam in the future.
● Largely contribute to the economic of the country.
● Let people from other countries know more about the beauty of Vietnam.
TOPIC 19 – CONSUMERISM (b)
EXAMINER
full name.

PART 1
I’m a waiter at a restaurant near my house in district 3 and it’s one the most famous restaurants in
its district.
Why did you choose to study/ work in this particular field?

Actually, I’m temporarily working this job so as to pay my school fee.
temporarily /tempə'rærili/ (adv): tạm thời

Getting chances to meet new customers every day is such an interesting experience. Also,
sometimes there is a late party for employees after work so we can drink and eat delicious food
made by famous chefs and that’s really enjoyable.

Well, I sometimes serve some quite harsh customers as they always complain about how their
foods were late due to the fact that they came after a lot of other customers but we still have to
give them a big smile and beg them for patience.


What is your favorite hobby?
I have many hobbies but the one that I like most is photography.
When did you take up this hobby?

Since I was very young actually. I first took up this hobby when I was 14.
Is it very popular among people of your age in your country? Why?

This recreational activity is quite renowned among both youth and elderly people. Different people
have their own different purposes. Maybe some just want to keep a good memory about their
vacations or some others have strong passion for artistry.
artistry /á:tistri/ (n): nghệ thuật
Now I’d like to ask you about your routine:

Yes, actually, I always get up early in the morning to do exercise before I go to work. I finish it at
around 5 and then I go home and spend time with my family.


Like I said, I always get up and do personal hygiene at 5 everyday and have an exercise for about
1 hour before I prepare to go to work. My work starts at 8 until 12 when it’s the time to have a
lunch breakAfter that I start working straight to 5 o’clock. After that, I go home and spend time
with my family.

Normally, I just stay home and finish my tasks or watch the box. Or sometimes I’ll take my
children to my parents’ house and spend all day there.
PART 2
Talk about something you’ve bought that you were very happy with. You should say:
What is was. Describe it.
Why you bought it
Where you bought it
Where you kept/ keep it
and say why you were so happy with it.
1. Do you still have it?

2. Does anyone else in your family also use it?
Response:

Last week, I bought an Iphone for myself as a prize for being hard-working for over 6 months. It
was a golden Iphone 7 32 GB version and I bought it for 650$ from a store located in district 10.
I must say that I was really impressed with that Iphone at first. Its operating system was extremely
fast. It could run 3 times faster than my previous Iphone 5s and its facade was also carefully
designed as it was made to be slimmer and more luxurious. The traditional home button was
omitted in order to make the Iphone bigger due to the fact that its screen was already 4’7. you may
feel it rather gigantic at first, but it may end up feeling just right in no time. In addition, there are
many remarkable upgrades, for example Iphone 7 is now running IOS 10, using Apple A10
processor, also the RAM was upgraded to 4 GB. As the same time, the main camera was upgraded
to 12 MPX and the selfie shooter got the more sinigficant update by far is now 7 MPX. With these
marvelous updates, I think its price was totally worth it. But I believe the true thing that made it
worth every penny I spent was because I worked so hard over the past few months and to buy
something from the money I saved was a really great experience. This small thing could really
help me be more confident when I walk on street as I hear other people extolling my phone.
However, in spite of believing my carefulness, I had to remind myself to always keep my eyes on
the phone because that Iphone was recently the in thing so it’s definitely the target of many
pickpockets. In conclusion, I was really pleased with my choice in buying that phone.

Yes, I always bring it with me everywhere I go.

Well, sometimes my niece borrows it to play games. Besides, no one else uses it.
facade /fə:'sɑ:d/ (n): bề ngoài, vẻ ngoài

gigantic /dʒai´gæntik/ (adj): khổng lồ
extol /iks´tɔl/ (v): tán dương, ca tụng
the in thing: thời trang

PART 3
We’re been talking about things we can buy and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
1. What are some of products that Vietnam produces for the export market?
● Handicraft
● Seafood
● Rice
2. Compare the quality of locally made goods with goods from other countries.
● Competetive price
● Diversity in styles and models
● The quality is as good as those from other countries
3. Evaluate the impact that imported goods have on the sales of local products.
● The sales of local products declines
● More enterprises bankrupt.
4. Describe the attitude of Vietnamese people to locally made products.

● Not as popular as imported ones
● Look down on them

5. Compare the attitudes of your parent’s generation to your own generation is in terms of
saving.
● Following generation don’t know how to save for rainy day
● Parent’s generation consider things carefully before spending money on them

TOPIC 20 – ENVIRONMENT
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
Where are you from?
I’m from Quảng Ngãi. It’s is a province in the South Central Coast region of Vietnam, on the coast
of South China Sea. It is located 883 kilometres south of Hanoi and 838 kilometres north of Hồ
Chí Minh City.

Yes, I was born and brought up there.

My hometown is not a big one with a total area of about 5 thousands kilometres and a population
of over 1 millions. Quảng Ngãi is also a secondary industrial center of the South Central Coast
with processing of agricultural products and production of some paper and machinery.
agricultural /,ægri'kʌltʃərəl/ (adj): nông nghiệp

secondary /´sekəndəri/ (adj): thứ yếu, thứ hai


The thing that I like most about my hometown is the people there as they are all very hospitable
and diligent.
Now let’s talk about holidays:

Where do you usually spend your holidays?
I often go to Nha Trang for my leisure pursuit as I want to immerse myself in the fresh cool water.
leisure pursuit: giải trí

immerse in: ngâm, đắm chìm vào
Who do you spend your holidays with?

I usually go alone as I would like to do whatever I want. I mean with my family I have to look
after my children all the time I will miss all the fun.
What do you like to do when you are on holiday? Why?

Actually, it still depends on my purpose to decide what to do for example I will go for a dip if I
thirst for water or on the contrary, if I want to buy some souvenirs for my friends and relatives I’ll
go to the market.
thirst for : khao khát, ham muốn mạnh mẽ
Let’s discuss food:

Describe a traditional dish you like.
Well, I really enjoy Phở because its smell and taste are tempting. Also, Phở is very popular among
both the native and foreigners.
tempting /´temptiη/ (adj): hấp dẫn, lôi cuốn
Do you like going out to restaurants?

Yes, restaurants offers a mixed variety of dishes and I can choose whatever fits my taste.
How often do you go?

I usually go to restaurants with my family at weekends as my wife is fed up with cooking.

PART 2
Describe an environmental problem in your country. You should say:
What the problem is
How you have learned about this problem
Who or what is affected by this problem.
and say why you were so unhappy with it.
1. Do you recycle?
2. Do you think it is important to have a clean environment?
Response:
I live in Ho Chi Minh city and this city has got some several issues related to environmental
pollution. The major environmental pollutions that this city has is air pollution. The main reason
for this pollution is overpopulation and a rapid and unplanned industrialisation of this city. The
city has more than 8 millions people whereas the number should have been far less than that. It is
inevitable that a large number of populations in a small city always cause environmental pollution
as they use more cars, consume more energy and natural resources. Air pollution is very
concerning in this city and the chemical smoke, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide emitted from
automobiles and industries are the main reason for air pollution. This city has more than million
automobiles and thousands of industries which are emitting the dangerous gases, and ingredients
which are causing the air pollutions. Air pollution is the direct reason people suffer from various
dangerous diseases including lung cancer, asthma, heart disease etc. In fact the number of people
currently suffering from these diseases in alarming and if steps are not taken to prevent air pollution
immediately, this number would rapidly increase. The most important thing to reduce pollution in
our city is to create public awareness. We are mostly creating that pollution and endangering
ourselves, the Earth and other species. Without our awareness and strict determination to prevent
our city from pollution, we can’t reduce or prevent it. Strict laws should be introduced and be
applied against any environmental pollution and all the illegitimate industries and companies
should be banned. The decentralization of industries and offices can be effective as it would reduce
the number of people currently living in this city. Job opportunities and other facilities should be

improved in the rural areas so that people can manage works in their own cities and villages other
than coming to this city. The education and morality are two important aspects that help people
understand the necessity of keeping the city clean and healthy.
1. Do you recycle?
Yes, I always recycle things which can be recycled for example bottles.
2. Do you think it is important to have a clean environment?

Definitely, a clean environment ensures the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem
upon which human life and all other life on Earth depends so it’s extremely important
to have a clean environment.
inevitable /inévitəbl/ (adj): không thể tránh được

consume /kənˈsum/ (v): tiêu thụ
emit/i'mit/ (v): tỏa ra, bốc ra
determination /di,tə:mi'neiʃn/ (n): quyết định, quyết nghị
illegitimate /¸ili´dʒitimit/ (adj): bất hợp pháp
decentralization /di:,sentrəlai'zei∫n/ (n): sự phân quyền, phân tán
biodiversity /baiəʊdai'vɜ:səti/ (n): đa dạng sinh học
ecosystem /ékou´sistəm/ (n): hệ sinh thái

PART 3
We’re been talking about the environment and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
1. Describe some of the kinds of environmental problems that exist in your country?
● Smog
● Litter
● Waste from industrial factories
2. Do you think people from your country are concerned about these problems?
● Campaigns have been set up in order to against industries
3. Speculate on the effects of environmental change on the lives of future generations.

● The air will be dirtier.
● The loss of habitats
● Toxic food
4. Speculate on what should be done to clean up the environment.

● Hard punishments should be promulgated
● Stop littering

5. Are some environmental problems caused by international factors beyond your country’s
control?
6. Can you evaluate the individual’s capacity to help solve environmental problems?
● Together we can change the world
● Every person’s try is necessary

TOPIC 21 – TECHNOLOGY
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’m working as an employee at a real estate agency.
real estate agency (n): phòng bất động sản

I’ve always been fascianted with lands since I was very young.
What do you like most about your study/ job?

Well, by working at this profession, I can know more about lands, particularly, which part of lands
is considered potential and I can invest in it.

Actually, my work is fine, I don’t find any difficulty about my job.
Now let’s talk about your routine:

Is exercise part of your daily routine?
Yes, exercise has been a very important part of my daily routine, particularly I always jog for about
an hour every day in order to help me keep in shape.
How do you usually begin your day?

I always begin my day with an 1-hour jogging and then I sometimes help my wife prepare breakfast
for the whole family.
What do you usually do in the evenings?

Well, I usually spend time watching TV with my family and talking about our day, or sometimes
I have to finish my incompleted work.

What do you enjoy most about festivals?
The atmosphere is the thing that I enjoy most in any festivals. Also, the streets are decorated
beautifully so there will be chances for me to have some photos with my friends.

Tell me about your favorite festival.

That would be Tết I suppose. Tết is one of the most traditional festivals which is annually held on
the very first day of the year. It’s the time when people gather in the same home and enjoy the
celebration together.
Why is it your favorite?

It’s because of the joyful atmosphere which the festival offers me. Everybody is laughing and
giving their best wishes to each other.
PART 2
Describe a recent technological advancement that you have benefited from. You should say:
What it is
How often you use it, and what you use it for
How you benefit from it
and explain whether you think it will still be in use in ten years’ time, and why/ why not.


Response:
Technology has become an inseparable part of my life as it helps facilitate many things. Moreover,
the advancement in technology has been exceptionally fast in the 20th and 21st century in terms
of medicine and health care, communication, agriculture, education, transportation. But I guess the
one that I take advantage of most is transportation. In particular, thanks to the invention of an app
called “Grab”, I can now easilly and conveniently travel around the city.
I use it quite often like almost everyday, whenever I want to get to somewhere I just need to pick
up my phone and use “Grab”. Or everytime I need to deliver something, I also use “Grab”. The
way to use it is also very easy, first you need to key in your pick-up and drop-off locations to get
your estimated fare. And then “Grab” will find the nearest available driver for you. Next you just
wait for your driver but what is so convenient is that you can track your driver by knowing your
driver’s location and ETA in real-time from your phone screen. Finally, the driver will take you to
the destination safety and you pay a reasonable fare.
What I like about “Grab” besides its convenience is its group of well-trained and careful workers.
Their serving attitudes are very positive as they always smile whenever they see me. Moreover,
they always drive as careful as possible so I feel completely safe and pleased. Additionally, the
fare is shown in advance so you no longer do you have to bargain as the company provides you a
fixed and transparent fare through the app. Due to the fact that “Grab” has become so popular and
it is growing bigger and bigger everyday so I think in the future “Grab” will improve even more
and maybe there will be “GrabPlane” besides cars and bikes. I truly think so.

Yes, it’s also listed as my favorite app on my phone.

Since it’s been so popular, my parents are not in the exception. They use it even more
frequent than I do as they travel around a lot but they’re rather old to drive themselves
and I’m way to busy to do it
facilitate /fə'siliteit/ (v): làm cho thuận tiện

inseparable /in´sepərəbl/ (adj): không thể tách rời
in terms of : về
estimate /'estimeit/ (v): ước lượng
available /ə'veɪləbl/ (adj): sẵn có
track /træk/ (v): theo dõi
attitude /'ætitju:d/ (n): thái độ
bargain /´ba:gin/ (v): mặc cả, thương lượng
transparent /træns´pærənt/ (adj): rõ ràng, rõ rệt

PART 3
We’re been talking about technology and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions related
1. Discuss any problems associated with the rapid development of technology.
● People depends too much on technology
● Use technology to do bad things
2. Evaluate whether modem technology has widened the gap between developed and
developing countries.
3. Speculate on some technological advancements that might be invented in the future.

● Flying cars
● Discover and cure diseases

4. Consider what your life would be like without technological advancements such as
electricity
TOPIC 22 – INDUSTRIALISATION
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
My hometown is Lâm Đồng. It is a province located in the Central Highlands region of Vietnam
and its capital is Đà Lạt.


I had lived there for almost 27 years before I moved to Ho Chi Minh city to live with my wife.

I really like about Lâm Đồng because of its many famous tourist attractions such as Cát Tiên
National Park, Langbiang Mountain, etc.

It has been kept in its integrity for decades so there aren’t any changes besides the improvement
of living standard.

What do you like doing in your free time? Why?
I’m always interested in reading books and playing sports whenever I have time because they’re
all considered as good hobbies.


The one that I enjoy most is playing sports as it’s the way for me to keep in shape together with a
healthy diet.

I usually play sports, particularly soccer or badminton at weekends with my co-workers.
Let’s discuss family:

I’m living with my wife along with my 2 children in a house located in District 3. My wife is an
accountant for a foreign company and my children are students.

Hardly do I have much time for my family as I have to go on bussiness trips a lot. But I appreciate
every precious minute whenever I’m with them.


We all have meals together and enjoy our favorite programmes or at weekends I usually take my
children to the football field so they can play with me.
PART 2
Describe a traditional industry that is famous in Vietnam. You should say:
What it is
What it is used for
Why it is famous
and explain whether people still use it today and if you think people will use it in the future.
1. Do you think the making of traditional handicrafts is an important industry for

Vietnam?
2. Do you prefer local products to foreign ones? Why/ Why not?
Response:
One of the industry that is famous in Vietnam is Handicraft Industry. As you might know, a
handicraft, sometimes more precisely expressed as artisanal handicraft or handmade, is any of a
wide variety of types of work where useful and decorative objects are made completely by hand
or by using only simple tools. It is a traditional main sector of craft, and applies to a wide range of
creative and design activities that are related to making things with one's hands and skill, including
work with textiles, mold and rigid materials, paper, plant fibers, etc. Usually the term is applied to
traditional techniques of creating items that are both practical and aesthetic.Handicraft industries
are those that produces things with hands to meet the needs of the people in their locality.Machines
are not used.
In reality, Vietnam has become a place to manufacture and export hand-made products for the
European market, which is the world largest market for these items. Vietnam is catching up with
nations like Italy , China , and Malaysia in manufacturing and trading products which were made

by hands. Likewise, recently tourists who visit Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to purchase Vietnamese
gift goods are increasing. Some guidebooks introduce several handicraft villages that can be visited
on a day trip from major tourist towns, resulting in tourists who visit the actual production site and
shop during their stay. In Vietnam, quite a few craft villages, which are a day-trip distance from
big cities, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, receive many tourists to see the production site,
experience crafting and enjoy shopping in the area. Each provincial government has already
developed its own brochure to attract both foreign and domestic tourists and even websites to
promote their province's charm and history.
The reason why this type of industry has been so popular is because of its competitive price, the
ability so satisfy the huge orders and a diversity of styles and colours comes along with the high
quality of every product created. In conclusion, I believe in the future Vietnamese Handicraft
Industry will improve more and more.
1. Do you think the making of traditional handicrafts is an important industry for

Vietnam?
Defintely Handicraft industry has a lot of potential in Vietnam. The handicraft industry
has increased income in rural area and contributed significantly to poverty reduction.
Thus the Vietnamese government is putting much effort in the promotion of handicraft
villages where tourism and handicrafts are joined.
2. Do you prefer local products to foreign ones? Why/ Why not?

I will certainly embrace local products as I believe that Vietnamese products are getting
better and better every day so there is no point in choosing a foreign one with the same
quality but much more expensive.
handicraft /´hændi¸kra:ft/ (n): nghề thủ công

artisanal /a:´tizənəl/ (adj): thủ công
textiles /'tekstails/ (n): vải dệt
mold /moʊld/ (n): khuôn đúc
rigid /'ridʤid/ (adj): cứng, thô
fiber/'faibə/ (n): sợi
aesthetic /i:s'θetik/ (adj): thẩm mỹ
export /iks´pɔ:t/ (v): xuất khẩu
manufacture /,mænju'fæktʃə/ (n): sản xuất, chế tạo
catch up with : bắt kịp với
brochure /´brɔʃuə/ (n): sách quảng cáo
domestic /də'mestik/ (adj): nội địa
embrace /im'breis/ (v): ôm, ủng hộ

PART 3
We’re been talking about traditional industry and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
1. Compare the positive and negative aspects of industrialization on Vietnam.
2. Evaluate the importance of continued industrialization for Vietnam.

3. Which industries do you think Vietnam should focus on in the future?
4. Consider the possible dangers of rapid industrialization for a country.
TOPIC 23 – THE ARTS
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by talking about sports:
Do you prefer to play or watch sports?
I enjoy watching sports more than playing as I’m not so keen on moving my body.
What is your favorite sport?

My favorite one is soccer which is also known as the king of sports.

How often do you play/ watch this sport?

I sometimes watch it, particularly I only watch it when some of my friends come over because I
think watching football alone is kind of boring.
Now I’d like to ask you about your hometown:

Where are you from?
I’m from Huế which is one of the most important cities in Vietnam. Also, Huế is the city that is
mentioned in a lot of poems and songs.

Yes, I was born and brought up there.

My hometown is a religious city of which the tourist attractions are very famous and the people
there also earn a reputation for their diliigence and affability.
diligence /´dilidʒəns/ (n): sự cần cù, siêng năng

affability /¸æfə´biliti/ (n): sự lịch sự, nhã nhặn


I really like the cuisine there. In Hue cuisine, it has both luxurious and rustic popular dishes. All
are cooked with talent skills of the Hue people, creating special flavor of Hue food.
rustic /´rʌstik/ (adj): mộc mạc, thô sơ
Now let’s talk about language learning:

What do you find most difficult about studying English?
Well, sometimes I find it quite difficult to distinguish between “ed” form and “ing” form of an
adjective and the differences between “can” and “be able to”.
How often do you use English outside the classroom?

I use it in my daily life a lot, particularly I usually attend some English speaking clubs near my
neighbourhood in order to enhance my speaking skill.
Have you learnt any other languages? If so, which ones?

Recently, I’ve also taken up French because it’s one of the compulsory subjects at my school.
compulsory /kəm´pʌlsəri/ (adj): bắt buộc

PART 2
Describe a book, picture or piece of music which is important to you. You should say:
What it is
When and where you first encountered it
How it makes you feel
and explain it is important to you.
1. Does it still make you feel the same?

2. How often do you read/kook at/listen to it now?
Response:
The song 'High Hopes' sung by David Gilmour of Pink Floyd band is a song I have loved always
and would hear often for the rest of my life. Pink Floyds is famous for their progressive and
psychedelic music and high quality lyrics. This song falls under the progressive rock music genre
and was the 11th song of the album Division Bell.
I usually listen to this song in my computer and sometimes in my MP3 player with the head phone.
In fact I am a great fan of this music band and most of their songs are in my favorite list. This song
is specifically attractive for the music composition, lyrics and theme.
This song reminds the past and compares how greener and full of possibility it was. The church
bell and the lyrics make an out of the world illusion that only people who love it would realize.
Every time I hear this song, I can feel my childhood, the sweet memory and the greener town I
used to live. This is song that opens a horizon for me to visit my past. I love this song from my
heart.
This music puts me in a sad yet charming mood. I feel sad that the past days won't be coming back
and I won't have that childhood charm anymore. On the other hand this song gives me a genuine
pleasure of the memories of my childhood and all the friends and people I knew then.
1. Does it still make you feel the same?

Yes, whenever I hear the song, maybe in different places but the feeling I have is the
same.
2. How often do you read/kook at/listen to it now?

Very often actually, I always listen to it whenever I feel tired and it’s truly a therapy to
help me chill out.

progressive /prəˈgrɛsɪv/ (adj): phát triển không ngừng, tiến bộ

psychedelic /saiki´delik/ (adj): ở trạng thái lâng lâng
fall under : được liệt vào, được xếp loại vào
genre /´ʒa:ηrə/ (n): loại, thể loại
composition /ˌkɒmpəˈzɪʃən/ (n): tác phẩm
theme /θi:m/ (n): chủ đề
lyric /´lirik/ (n): lời bài hát
illusion /i'lu:ʤn/ (n): ảo giác, ảo ảnh
horizon /həˈraɪzən/ (n): chân trời, tầm nhận thức, tầm nhìn
genuine /´dʒenjuin/ (adj): thật, xác thực, thành thật
charm /t∫ɑ:m/ (n): sức mê hoặc, sắc đẹp
therapy /'θerəpi/ (n): sự điều trị, liệu pháp
chill out: giải trí
PART 3
We’re been talking about the Arts and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions related to
this. Let’s consider:
1. Describe any traditional arts in Vietnam.

2. What role do the Arts play in Vietnam culture?

● Spirital value
● The heritage of the country
3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of high government spending on the Arts.
4. What are the differences between the Arts and popular entertainment?
5. Speculate on how the Arts will change in the future.
6. To what extent do the Arts shape a culture, or describe it?

TOPIC 24 – IMPORTANT EVENTS
EXAMINER
full name.
PART 1
I’d like to start by asking you some questions about your hometown:
Where are you from?
I’m from Trà Vinh which is located in the Mekong Delta region.

Yes, I’ve lived there for 25 years with my family.

The city has many famous Khmer pagodas, due to the large number of Khmer Krom, Cambodian
people there. Under the Republic of Vietnam, it was the provincial capital of a province with a
population of over 50 thousands.

What I like about my hometown is its famous attractions such as Ba Om Lake, Vam Ho Bird
Reserve and many other pagodas. Also, the people there are very hospitable and kind.

My favorite one is fried chicken with tomato sauce. I usually have it for every meal especially
lunch and I must say that I truly enoy it.

Like I said, I eat it quite often and I can eat it without getting fed up with that dish.

I’m not a very good cook but I can cook one of the traditional food of Vietnam which is Phở and
as far as I know, everyone who has tried my Phở all say that it’s extremely good.
Now I’d like to ask you about you routine:

Are all days the same?

Actually, yes. Sometimes I find it quite boring but I still have to follow it.

I wake up and do personal hygiene at 6 o’clock. Then I get dressed and have breakfast before I go
to work at 7h30. I work until 12 and then I have a lunch break until 1h30. After that, I will work
again until 5 sharp and then I go home with my family.

Normally, I just stay home and watch TV but if my friends ask me out, I will join them then.
PART 2
Describe an important event you have attended. You should say:

When it occurred
What the purpose of the event was
How you felt about the event
and explain why it was important.
1. Do you often attend big functions and/ or important events?

2. Do you find attending such events enjoyable?
Response:
One of the memorable wedding ceremonies that I attended and enjoyed was the wedding party of
my cousin. It was in the year 2007 and I was 21 years old at that time. I can recall that it was mid-
summer and I took 4 days leave from my university to attend the program.
My cousin Kim got married and she was the daughter of my eldest maternal uncle. Among our
cousins she was the eldest and she was 24 years old when she got married to a doctor. I was in the
wedding from the very beginning: shopping till the departure of the bride to her father-in-laws
house. The whole house was decorated, we celebrated a ceremony 3 days long, lots of relatives
and neighbors came to congratulate the bride and they brought some gifts for her as well. The host
prepared several delicious dishes and sweets and everyone wear new and traditional dresses.
Everyone enjoyed, sang and danced, the whole program was recorded and everyone cried when
the bride left the house.
Yes that was a typical wedding that followed the general traditions and customs. It was nothing
different from the traditional marriages that are generally performed in most of the part of the
country except some minor tribes and society. In fact we enjoyed the wedding because a typical
marriage ceremony in our country has lots of interesting and enjoyable parts that people celebrates
with boundless joys. We mostly followed the customs and thoroughly enjoyed the whole wedding
program.
1. Do you often attend big functions or important events?

No but I do hope that I’ll have a chance to enter any important event, maybe an
academic one because through it I can enhance my knowledge.
2. Do you find attending such events enjoyable?

Well, actually it still depends on the purpose of its event. If the purpose is good and
meaningful, of course I will enjoy it.
recall /ri´kɔ:l/ (v): nhớ, nhớ lại

maternal /məˈtɜrnl/ (adj): về phía mẹ, bên ngoại
general /'ʤenər(ə)l/ (adj): chung chung
custom /'kʌstəm/ (n): phong tục tập quán
tribe /traɪb/ (n); bộ tộc, bộ lạc
boundless /'baundlis/ (adj); bao la, bát ngát

PART 3
We’re been talking about important events and I’d like to discuss with you one or two questions
The role of cultural and sporting events in society
1. Describe what types of cultural and sporting events are important in your society.
● Seagame
2. Evaluate the purpose such events have in society.

● To make money
● To maintain the traditions that have existed for ages

3. Compare what events are popular now and what were popular in the past.
The place of sport in your country

1. Comment on the relationship between sport and national pride.
● High places in competition shows that the country is strong and full of gifted people
2. Explain how sports affect you personally.

● Help motivate me to become better
● Enhance my health
3. Speculate in the future place of sport in your country.

● As the Goverment is investing more on sports so high places are possible
The commercialization of culture

1. Describe how sporting and cultural events are marketed in your country.

● Banners
● Mass media
2. Evaluate the role of the media in determining the importance of different events.
● The more importatnt the event is, the more modern means of media will be used.
3. Speculate on what entertainment will become more important in the future.

● Virtual reality
virtual reality : thực tế ảo


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Applied ARCS Model – Keller 🕾 098 456 60 68

Attention-Relevance-Confidence-Satisfaction-Learning Motivation 🕾 084 219 85 85

Crucial (adj): quyết định, cốt yếu

Were you born there?

What’s your hometown like?

run-down (adj) : xuống cấp

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

What do you like about your hometown?

cuisine /kwi´zi:n/ (n): ẩm thực

Now let’s talk about food:

ingredient /in'gri:diənt/ (n): thành phần

When do you like to eat it?

fed up /ˌfed ˈʌp/ (adj) : chán ngấy

What kind of food can you cook yourself?

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

Now I’d like to ask you about your routine:

leisure pursuit (n): giải trí

Describe a typical day for you.

personal hygiene (n): vệ sinh cá nhân

What do you usually do at the weekend?

to make somebody’s acquaintance : kết bạn

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

1. Do you like cities in general?

1. Do you like cities in general?

2. Would you like to live in the city you spoke about?

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

Travelling forms a young man: đi 1 ngày đàng học 1 sàng khôn

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

4. Compare life in the city with life in the countryside.

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

5. Describe rural and urban patterns of population distribution in Vietnam.

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

Why did you choose to study/ work in this particular field?

desire /di'zaiə/ (n): khao khát, mong ước

What do you like most about your studies/ job?

achievement /əˈtʃivmənt/ (n): thành tích

What do you like to do in the future?

realize /'riəlaiz/ (v): thực hiện

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

Now let’s talk about leisure:

spare time: giờ rãnh

When did you take up this hobby?

guide /gaɪd/ (v): dẫn, hướng

Is it very popular among people of your age in your country? Why?

realize /'riəlaiz/ (v): nhận thức

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

And now about accommodation:

bustling (adj) : hối hả

Do you like living there? Why/ Why not?

culture /ˈkʌltʃər/ (n): văn hóa

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

Where the competition took place

1. Do you enjoy entering competitions?

1. Do you enjoy entering competitions?

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS

coincidence /kou'insidəns/ (n): trùng hợp

ARCS positively affects learning motivation DORA CLASS