Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2. Describe a time when you are very busy
You should say:
When it was
What you had to do during that time
How you managed it
And explain how you felt about being busy
a. When
"LẦY STRUCTURE": sophomore -> in the middle of finals -> up to the ears with
revision -> nerve-racking time for me
b. What?
- sit an exam (Mathematics)
- challenging -> don't have a knack for calculations and memorisation -> difficult
to remember formulas
-> easier if English, which is my forte/ strong suit
c. How you manged?
- Many exams -> schedule - rigorous
- Get up early to do revision -> don't mind (early bird)
- Work in groups -> help with memorisation
d. Feel?
- of course -> under an enormous amount of stress
-> pass with flying colors
-> take a lot of pride in my accomplishment
3. Describe a tall building in your hometown you like or dislike
You should say:
Where this building is
What it looks like
What it is used for
And explain why you like or dislike
4. Describe a person/something that made you laugh
You should say:
What made you laugh
Where you were when it happened
Who you were with
And explain why it made you laugh
a. What?
- ICE -AGE, an animated movie produced by Pixas, a celebrated film studio.
- most known for animations made in collab w/ Disney
b. Where?
- Cinema: sound + images more vibrant >< At home: much less dramatic
c. Who?
- girlfriend on anniversary
-> create a sense of occasion <- girlfriend - a fan of cartoons
d. Why?
- hilarious -> loads of clever jokes -> crack me up
- characters -> quirky
-> pleasant experience
a. When/ Where
SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION
- when: Lay
- where: cinema (sound effects _ images _ vibrant)
available on the I - Stream
b. Type
- Thriller -> Plot - complicated/ unpredictable/ focus on performance of actors
- Invoke feelings
-> more rewarding compared to HORROR (gory/ disgusting)
c. About?
- a man falsely accused of murder
-> imprisoned -> document his life in prison and how he broke out
d. Why?
- fascinating
- captivating (turn away for one moment)
- performances were impeccable)
- can watch over and over again
6. Describe a piece of (electrical or electronic) equipment in your home
You should say:
What it is
How often you use it
Who you usually use it with
And explain why this item is important to you
a. What it is
iPad -> tablet manufactured by Apple - a technology giant/ behemoth -> in
addition to smartphones, A also offers ... laptops, smartphones, smart watches
b. How often
- practically every minute of the day -> essential item -> cannot be without
>< unlike TV -> barely touch
c. Who use it with
- share with family members -> inconvenient -> want to buy my own -> student
(meager income) -> hold off the purchase for a while
d. Why important
- do a lot of things on it (surf the net, catch up on TV shows, read the news,
check my emails) -> very convenient -> life-saver
choice.
- 2 ly, travel enthusiast -> bring a lot of things when he travels
nd
8. Describe a person who you have met and want to know more about
You should say:
Who this person is
When and where you met
What you did or talked about
a. Who
- My Tam -> celebrated singer -> known for ... hits released in early 2000s
- In addition to singing -> acting -> performance is horrendous -> stick to singing
b. When
"LẦY STRUCTURE": sophomore -> in the middle of finals -> up to the ears with
revision -> nerve-racking time for me -> let my hair down -> go to see a concert
c. Where
- saw My Tam live in concert -> spectacular -> stadium -> perfect venue for an
artist of such calibre
d. What you did
- watched her perform -> her performance was impeccable -> hooked -> chatted
briefly after the concert
-> talk more -> can identify with her story
c. What happened
- why missed: something unexpected came up -> had to run some errands for my
dad -> couldn't make the interview (be in time for the interview)
- Afterwards -> call the employer -> quite furious about it -> fortunately, he was
sympathetic enough to give me a second chance -> reschedule the interview
b. How often
- not often -> few matches -> difficult to get a hold of the tickets
c. What people do
- football games
- concerts -> Son Tung MTP concert last year -> spectacular -> perfect venue for
an event of such calibre
d. Why important?
- one of the few state-of-the-art sporting facilities in the city -> others are run-
down
a. Where it was
Ly Thai To Park:
- Located in downtown Hanoi -> bustling area.
- A short drive from my house.
b. What it looked like
- Generous space -> a lot of room for activities
- A range of flowers are cultivated here -> such as …
- Plants, bushes -> fresh air
- A playground -> children take full advantage of
- A statue of Ly Thai To -> the 1 king of the Ly dynasty
st
14. Describe an area of subject that you are interested in
You should say:
What it is
When it started to become interested in it
What we have learned from it
And explain why you have interest in it
a. What it is
English communication -> common skill worldwide
-> if incapable of speaking English -> a range of disadvantages.
b. When it started to become interested in it
The height of a grasshopper
- My house -> located in downtown Hanoi -> met a lot of foreign visitors ->
communicated with them -> high level of proficiency -> compliments from
them
c. What we have learned from it
- How to start a converstion -> speak English better.
- exposed to international cultures -> broaden knowledge -> enrich our
lives
d. And explain why you have interest in it
Many reasons:
- 1 ly, interact with native speakers -> promote Vietnamese attractions.
st
Sapa
mountainous town in the North Western of Vietnam
about 4-hour drive from Hanoi -> it is long-haul route -> feel tired -> go there
occasionally
famous for a lot of things, especially atmosphere and landscape
WHEN
finished all my final exams, after the nerve-wracking time… let my hair down
make reservation for bus, accommodation -> pack my stuff
WHAT I DID
I can escape the hustle and bustle neighborhood where I live now
Albeit distant, Sapa is always the best place to me.
19. Describe an interesting or unusual thing you did recently (in your
free time)
You should say:
What you did
When and where you did it
Who you did it with
And explain why you think it was interesting or unusual
Today, I am going to tell you about an interesting thing I did recently. It was
last month, when I was at the middle of the finals; I was always up to the ear,
which is a nerve-wrecking period of time. So I decided to do something to let my
hair down.
I asked my best buddy to go with me. Her name is Ngoc Anh. You know,
we go way back, it’s about for 20 years, since we were the height of the
grasshoppers. Needless to say we maintain a close-knit relationship.
We decided to climb to the top of a mountain; it is a short walk from my
house. There was a bit dangerous but we did not dishearten. When arrived,
we’re blown away because from the mountain we had a breath-taking view of the
sky. In this day and age, it is extremely difficult to watch the skies in the city as
most of the cities are built-up, which means there are many skyscrapers and it
blocks the views of the sky. The atmosphere was more tranquil so we had a
chance to thinking about life. Today, most Vietnamese Youth go to the café’s or
hit the club to blow off some steam, admiring the night sky creates a sense of
occasion. It was clear sky with constellations and Milky Way. All the stars were
sparkling.
I was touched moved by what I saw and I fell as one with nature. And I think
this is an unforgettable trip in my life, which helps me blow off some steam and
willing to turn back my work.
20. Describe an advertisement you have seen/heard recently
You should say:
And explain how you felt about it
What the contents of the advertisements were
What was advertised
When and where you saw it
Today, I am going tell you about TV advert / TV commercial for a new line of
smart phone by a company called OPPO, which is a technology giant/behemoth
in Vietnam. They are almost known for a smartphone with the cutting edge photo
taking capabilities. In addition to smartphone, they also offer a wide range of
laptops, tablets.
Last week, I saw the commercial on vtv6, which is one of the most view channels
in VN. This channel is popular with the youth so you can properly guess
companies target this age group usually advertise here.
As I was saying, the commercial advertises a new smartphone by oppo. It
features a celebrated performance in VN named My Tam. She happens to (tình
cờ) be my idol. So needless to say I was immediately drawn to the commercial.
In the advert, the singer demonstrates how awesome the built-in camera. I have
to say I was very tempted to purchase one after I saw it. Finally, I would like to
tell you how I feel about the commercial I find particularly fascinating. Normally, I
would say that commercials are annoying but this particular one. It really appeals
to me.
There are some reasons why I prefer travelling by car more than other means of
transport. First and foremost, I am keen on breathtaking views overlooked from
the car. In addition to this, travelling by cars would be more flexible than others
like trains, which have to go through designated lanes. Last but not least, It would
be economical if I go travelling by cars compared to planes, which could cost me
an arm and a leg. I guess the trip would be really meaningful because we can
cultivate the bond with others and discover a number of new things.
can liberating
2 , lucrative income > being a businesswoman/entrepreneur often make
nd
27. Describe a place in other countries where you would like to work.
You should say:
Where you would like to go
What kind of work/job you would like to have
When you would like to go
Why you want to work in that place
Today, I am going to tell you about a country that I would like to go there to work.
1. You know, I have to say that there are a lot of countries that I haven’t had
a chance to visit. But there is a country that caught my attention is the
United States. Which is also known as the land of dream. It is one of the
greatest nations to live and work there.
2. Because I got a bachelor’s degree in technology, so that I definitely want
to become a engineer.
3. To be totally honest, I am preparing for myself to improve my English
skills, especially the IELTS test to go abroad to study and work. So I cant
wait to go to America as soon as possible.
4. As I was saying, I really want to become an engineer because of my
major. But as you can probably guess that another appealing feature of
the United States is that the state of the art technology and machines are
invented and used widely in this country, so it is so convinient for me if I
can work on my fields there.
Well, actually I would like to talk about a website that I really into. It is Facebook
which is a social networking one.
You know, when I was the sophomore of the university and it was in the middle
of finals, you know, I was always up to the ear with a ton of homework so you
can probably guess it was nerve-wrecking period of time. So I decided to do
something to let me hair down.
Fortunately, one of my friends sent me an email inviting me to join a website.
Actually, It was Facebook and I signed up and I have been using it ever since.
Well, you know, Facebook is one of the incredibly tools that allows you to keep
up to date with what friends are doing, as a results, I use it everyday.
Actually, I find Facebook website really useful. That is to say I can have a profile
page with informations and status updates so that I can tell everyone what I’m
doing. In addition I can post messages to other people’s page or upload photos
and videos as well. Last but not least, Facebook is very common way to organize
our life and I think social networking websites have become more and more
popular in their life.
30. Describe a difficult decision that you once made.
You should say:
What the decision was
How you made your decision
What the results of the decision were
And explain why it was difficult to make.
Today I’m going to tell you a tough decision that I made. I still remember
when I was a senior student in the University, it was absolutely a nerve-
wrecking time for me. I was not only up to the ear with my study but also
struggling with a difficult decision related to my future career. Honestly, at
that time I was at the crossroads, where I have to decide which path to
follow, should I land a job or pursue higher education after graduating.
Fortunately, my brother who always stands by me whenever I encounter
difficulties, gave me some sound advice. He told me that I should
consider the pros and cons of each case. If I found a job, I would
accommodate basic necessaries of life and diminish my parents’
financial burden. Otherwise, I would broaden my knowledge and boost
my career prospects as well as make a lucrative income if I got a higher
study. Finally, I made my own decision and until now I’m really satisfied
with this. I’m putting all my effort on studying in order to get a scholarship
which can help me realize my career dream.
31. Describe an item that you received and made you happy
You should say
When you received it
What the item was
Who gave it to you
And explain why you felt happy
Today I’m going to tell you about a gift that I receiced and made me happy.
It was when I was a senior and I was in the middle of thesis. So as you can probably
guess, I up to the ear with preparation such as found and analysed tremendous figures,
and I also read a numerous documents. So I needed a thing that not only able to access
internet rapidly but also modest.
Once I was surfing internet, I was instantly hooked by Note 4, it was all the range smart
phone that manufactured by Samsung which is a leading company in the field of
technology. It offers a wide range of tablets, smart watches and laptops, just name a
few. This phone was builted up with state of the art technologies which support
comprehensively for working like web browser which can do a lot of research and office
system which make handling figures is a breeze .But it cost an arm and a leg since I
have to put off the purchase.
One day, when I was studying, I got a small packet from my dad. He said it was a early
gift for my graduation. When I opened the packet, I was definitely amazing, it was my
dreamed smart phone, and more surprise cause it was black model, my favourite colour.
I was touched cause I didn’t understand why my dad knew it.
I was truly happy with my dad’s gift because of it’s convience. It not only simplified my
workload and make it take place faster, but also give me more incentive.
32. Describe something you ate for the first time.
You should say:
What it was;
When you ate it;
Why you ate it;
And explain how you felt about it.
What it was?
Mi Quang, which is nice noodles, served with bar becured pork
A special dipping sauce
Most restaurants also offer a complimentary side of greens
o just think of it wakes my instinct up already
When and why, who you ate it?
In the middle of finals, when I was a sophomore > up to the ears with
revision > nerve racking time > let my hair down > decide had a trip in DN
with my best buddy, who is the height of grapshopper > close–knit
relationship about 10 years > Mi Quang is local cuisine of DN
Explain how you felt about it?
Flavorsome, fresh > work up an appetite > tuck into to be full up
Dirt cheap > buy some for my family and my friend
33. Describe something that you had to share with other people, such
as public transport, accommodation, and food.
You should say:
What it was;
Who you shared it with;
Why you shared it with others;
And explain how you felt about sharing
34. Describe an activity you do to keep fit
You should say:
What the activity is
When, where you usually do it
How you do it
And explain why it can keep you fit.
35. Describe a person who once moved to live with you
You should say:
When and where this person moved in
How you know -.his person
How you got along with this person
And how you feel about living with this person
36. Describe an interesting tradition in your country
You should say:
What the tradition is
When do you celebrate it
How do you celebrate it
And explain why it is interesting
What the tradition is
Tet holiday -> known as Lunar New Year
- Some people think -> originated in China -> don’t agree -> has
celebrated for so long -> don’t care its provenance.
When do you celebrate it
At the beginning of Lunar Year -> late January, early February.
- Hanoi -> 4 distinct seasons -> when weather turns chilly -> get together
with family -> create sense of occasion.
How do you celebrate it
- Cook a lot of food -> most important one is Banh Chung -> made by rice
-> green beans and pork filling -> wrapped in green leaves.
- Give young children lucky money -> equivalent to Christmas gifts -> wish
them good luck -> they enjoy it.
And explain why it is interesting
Getting around with old friends and family gathering
37. Describe a person that you like to spend time with
You should say:
Who is this person
How do you know this person
What you like to do together
And explain why you like to spend time with this person
Who
one of my best buddies
who knows me inside out.
How do you know?
Sophomore at the college, we were in the middle of finals and
up to the ear with revision.
These final exams were really challenging for -> need
someone's help to review all of things I learnt.
Fortunately, she was perfectly willing to give me a hand and I
fully appreciated that.
What do you like to do together?
I passed with the flying color owing to her help.
The previous time was nerve-racking -> needed something to
let their hair down.
We both have strong preferences for travelling -> Da Nang
It is a costal city in the central Vietnam, most known for the
splendid beaches, landscapes and delicacy.
We took a hike to the mountain there had a breathtaking view
of the city below and also snapped some photos.
We took a walk to the beach to go in for a swim and water was
crystal clear.
We also had a chance to try seafood, which is the local cuisine
Explain why you like to do?
We had a blast
rewarding experience.
incredibly unforgettable and stellar.
Although we don’t have a long-run relationship -> get on like the
house and fire.
Who?
o Pham Nhat Vuong, who is the founder of Vingroups, a real estate
giant in VN
o Most known as the richest person in VN
o Sponsor for charities, schools, …
How you know?
o [Lay structure]
o Surf internet → got news about the 1 billionaire of VN → hooked →
st
look up information
What skills? & why you think he is a good leader
o Inspires and motivates others → influences people, especially
young pp hard-work to success
o Solves problems and analyses issues → drives Vingroups
overcome some economic downturn (Ex: 2008, 2011)
o Drives for results → commitment with his customers
o Communicates powerfully and prolifically → the talking with Viettel
o Builds relationships
o Develops others → trains his staff → leading experts in their
industries
40. Describe a creative person that you admire
You should say:
Who is this person
How do you know this person
What creative things this person likes to do
And explain why you admire this person.
Who is this person
My Tam -> celebrated singer
- Most known for hits -> released in early 2000s.
- In addition to singer -> musician, charity activities, acting career.
How do you know this person
Sophomore -> … -> let my hair down -> watched youtube -> was hooked
by one of her hits -> looked up -> became a big fan.
What creative things this person likes to do
- Compose a piece of music -> upbeat songs -> catchy melody -> whereas
other musicians
- Run a range of charity activities -> innovatie ideas to raise more fund.
And explain why you admire this person.
Many reasons:
- 1 ly, inventive -> as told -> nice gestures for the society.
st
- 2 ly, independent, overcome challenges, never giving up <- when meet with
nd
adversities.
42. Describe an important skill you learned when you were a child
You should say:
What this skill was
When you learned it
How you learned it
And explain why you think it was important
What this skill was
English communication -> common skill in worldwide
-> if incapable of speaking English -> a range of disadvantages.
When you learned it
The height of a grasshopper
- My house -> located in downtown Hanoi -> met a lot of foreign visitors ->
communicated with them -> high level of proficiency -> compliments from
them
How you learned it
- Watched TV shows, music, … -> listen comprehensive
- Took lessons in school.
- Self-tought.
- Practised with native speakers.
And explain why you think it was important
Improve job prospects -> more promising -> make a lucrative income.
- 2 ly, take up the habit -> take good care of money -> prepare for future -> while
nd
- 2 ly, generous space -> authorities open outdoor exhibitions on the weekend ->
nd
a. What it was
- had a dispute with a friend -> money problems -> best buddy -> go way
back -> knew him when I was knee-height to a grasshopper -> really upset
when I fought with him
- borrowed money -> promised to pay back -> after a while didn't mention ->
asked for it back -> said he didn't recall asking me for money
b + c. When + What
- "LẦY structure": sophomore -> in the middle of finals -> up to the ears w
revision -> nerve-racking time for me -> all the more furious
d. Why angry
- angry because he was my best friend -> didn't deserve to be treated that
way
53. Describe a (short) journey that you disliked
You should say:
Where you went
Who you went with
What you did
And explain why you disliked this journey
a. Where you went
- Danang - coastal city - Central VN -> 1 hour flight from Hanoi
- known for its beaches -> My Khe, one of the most immaculate beaches in the
world
d. Why disliked
- locals were not very hospitable
- food did not live up to its expectations
- felt a bit underwhelmed
54. Describe an antique or an old object that your family has kept for a
long time.
You should say:
What it is
How your family first got this thing
How long your family has had it
And explain why it is important
a. What it is
- a sabre -> long blade -> used to be razor sharp -> now rusty
- still has the original shaft
d. Why important
- act as a reminder of my family's glorious lineage -> take a lot of pride in being
the keeper of such a treasure
55. Describe a character or personality of yours
You should say:
What it is
How it affects your life
Where you get it from
And how you feel about it
a. What it is
honesty -> not very common in life -> honest people are a rarity -> highly valued,
especially in the workplace