200 Bài Mẫu Ielts Speaking Update Cho Năm 2021 - by Ngocbach

200 BÀI MẪU IELTS SPEAKING CHO NĂM 2021
BY NGOCBACH
1. Describe a change that you think would improve your local area .................................................... 9
2. Describe an educational TV program that you have seen ................................................................ 10
3. Describe a situation (or time) when you received some useful advice ............................................. 12
4. Describe a place you have visited that has been affected by pollution. ........................................... 13
5. Describe a time when you tried a new food for the first time. ......................................................... 14
6. Describe your favourite season or time of the year........................................................................... 17
7. Describe an occasion when you got up very early. ............................................................................ 19
8. Describe one of your best (= one of your close, or good) friends. .................................................... 21
9. Described a success you have had in your life. .................................................................................. 22
10. Describe a family (not your own family) that you like. .................................................................... 25
11. Describe a photo of yourself that you had taken ............................................................................... 26
12. Describe a long car journey you went on ........................................................................................... 28
13. Describe a team project for study or entertainment ......................................................................... 30
14. Describe someone you know who recently moved to new accommodation. ................................... 32
15. Describe a good part of your personality or character..................................................................... 34
16. Describe a short trip that you frequently make (or, take) but dislike. ............................................ 35
17. Describe a garden or park you enjoyed visiting. ............................................................................... 38
18. Describe a free-time activity that you like to do after you have finished your study or work. ..... 39
19. Describe a person you know whose job is important to society ....................................................... 42
20. Describe a house or apartment you would like to live in. ................................................................. 44
21. Describe a time when you waited for (or, had to wait for) something (or someone). .................... 46
22. Describe someone or something that made a lot of noise. ................................................................ 47
23. Describe a song that has special meaning for you. ............................................................................ 48
24. Describe an important holiday (or festival) that is celebrated in your country. ............................ 51
25. Describe a film you watched at home or in a cinema........................................................................ 54
26. Describe a (recent) time when you looked at the sky (either day or night) .................................... 56
27. Describe a recent event (or something you did) that made you happy. .......................................... 59
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28. Describe a difficult decision that you made. ...................................................................................... 61
29. Describe a polluted place. .................................................................................................................... 62
30. Describe a person you know who dresses well .................................................................................. 64
31. Describe a person you know who speaks a second (or foreign) language well. .............................. 64
32. Describe a person (you know) who travels a lot by plane. ............................................................... 64
33. Describe the member of your family who you spend the most time with. ...................................... 67
34. Describe a street that you like to visit ................................................................................................ 69
35. Describe an article you read in a magazine or on the internet about healthy living. .................... 71
36. Describe a person (you know), much older than you, who you admire. ......................................... 72
37. Describe a television program that you like to watch. ...................................................................... 74
38. Describe a sport that you have learned. ............................................................................................. 75
39. Describe a short holiday (vacation) that was special for you. .......................................................... 77
40. Describe a wedding that you have attended. ..................................................................................... 79
41. Describe a useful app or computer program for a smart phone, computer or tablet that you have used.
81
42. Describe a goal that you would like to achieve. ................................................................................. 83
43. Describe an activity you do for your health or fitness. ..................................................................... 84
44. Describe a big company that you would like to work in................................................................... 87
45. Describe a time when someone apologized to you. ............................................................................ 89
46. Describe a story or a novel that was particularly interesting to you ............................................... 90
47. Describe some local news that people in your locality are interested in. ........................................ 92
48. Describe the first time you used a foreign language to communicate. ............................................ 93
49. Describe an occasion when you helped someone. .............................................................................. 95
50. Describe what you think would be the perfect job for you. ............................................................. 96
51. Describe a foreign country you would like to go to. ( A country you have not been to yet) .......... 98
52. Describe something that you have shared with others (or another person) ................................... 99
53. Describe a course you would like to study (or, do). ........................................................................ 101
54. Describe a positive change that you made to your life.................................................................... 103
55. Describe a situation that made you a little angry. ........................................................................... 105
56. Describe a skill you learned when you were a child........................................................................ 107
57. Describe a time when you forgot something important. ................................................................. 109
58. Describe a sport stadium that’s important in your city.................................................................. 110
59. Describe a product you bought that you were happy with............................................................. 111

60. Describe a special toy you had in your childhood. .......................................................................... 114
61. Describe a time when you saw an interesting animal. .................................................................... 115
62. Describe a meal you had your friends (in someone's home or in a restaurant). .......................... 117
63. Describe an item of clothing that was bought for you .................................................................... 118
64. Describe a time when the weather caused you to change your plan. ............................................ 120
65. Describe a place near water (such as a river, a lake or the ocean) that you enjoyed visiting. .... 121
67. Describe a happy family event from your childhood. ....................................................................... 123
68.Describe a gift that you recently gave to others............................................................................... 125
69. Describe an area of subject that you are interested in (such as physics, mathematics) .............. 126
70. Describe a creative inventor or musician ........................................................................................ 128
71. Describe a time when you were very busy. ..................................................................................... 130
72. Describe an advertisement you have seen. ...................................................................................... 132
73. Describe a website that you like to visit. ......................................................................................... 134
74. Describe a time you needed to use imagination .............................................................................. 136
75. Describe a tall building you like or dislike. ..................................................................................... 138
76. Describe a wild animal ...................................................................................................................... 140
77. Describe a small business that you would like to open, (or, start or run or own or have) if you had the
chance. ...................................................................................................................................................... 142
78. r Describe a time you missed an important appointment for something ..................................... 144
79. Describe a place in other countries where you would like to work .............................................. 146
80. Describe an antique or some other old thing that your family has kept for a long time. ........... 147
81. Describe a café you like. ................................................................................................................... 149
82. Describe a plan you made in your life (except work or study) ...................................................... 150
83. Describe a shop opened in your hometown..................................................................................... 152
84. Describe a talk or a speech ............................................................................................................... 154
85. Describe an interesting neighbor you have/had ............................................................................. 156
86. Describe an experience that when you spent time with a child. .................................................... 159
87. Describe a person you were friendly to, although you did not really like them (him or her) .... 160
88. Describe something special you would like to buy (in the future).................................................... 162
89. Describe a member of your family who you would like to work with. ......................................... 164
90. Describe a magazine or newspaper that you like to read. ............................................................. 166
91. Describe a new skill you would like to learn. .................................................................................. 167
92. Describe a leader who you admire. .................................................................................................. 169

93. Describe an interesting public place in your hometown, or where you are living now, that you like to
go to .......................................................................................................................................................... 171
94. Describe a time when you made a mistake. .................................................................................... 173
95. Describe a person who you like to spend time with. ...................................................................... 174
96. Describe some good news you got from television or the internet. ............................................... 176
97. Describe a time when you got lost. ................................................................................................... 178
98. Describe an historic building that you have visited ....................................................................... 180
99. Describe a long walk that you went on. ........................................................................................... 182
100. Describe a successful small business that you know. ................................................................... 184
101. Describe a person/something that made you laugh ...................................................................... 186
102. Describe a quiet place. .................................................................................................................... 187
103. Describe a tourist site in your country that you enjoyed visiting. .............................................. 189
104. Describe a family member who has an important influence on you........................................... 191
105. Describe a book that you want to read again................................................................................ 193
106. Describe a decision made by others that you disagreed with ...................................................... 195
107. Describe an experience in which the use of a mobile phone was not allowed ............................ 199
108. Describe a kind of foreign food you have had .............................................................................. 202
109. Describe a holiday you want to go on in the future ...................................................................... 204
110. Describe an interesting house or apartment you visited .............................................................. 206
111. Describe the most polite person you know ....................................................................................... 207
112. Describe two people you know from one family ........................................................................... 210
113. Describe an unforgettable experience you have had .................................................................... 212
114. Describe a well-paid job that you will be good at ......................................................................... 214
115. Describe a kind of weather you like............................................................................................... 216
116. Describe a popular place where people like to go swimming. ..................................................... 218
117. Describe an experience of good service in a shop or a restaurant. ............................................. 220
118. Describe an outdoor activity you like to do .................................................................................. 221
119. Describe an occasion when you unexpectedly met someone you know. ..................................... 224
120. Describe a time when (you think) someone (you know) did not tell you the complete truth. .. 226
121. Describe an indoor game that you played when you were a child .............................................. 227
122. Describe an item of electronic equipment that you would like to have. ..................................... 229
123. Describe some paid work (or, a paid job) that you or a friend enjoyed doing. ......................... 230
124. Describe something you do that keeps you fit. (or, that helps to keep you fit) .......................... 232

125. Describe a sport that you prefer to do and is a little expensive .................................................. 234
126. Describe a person who you have met before and you want to know more about ..................... 236
127. Describe a famous person in your country ................................................................................... 238
128. Describe something special that you saved money to buy. .......................................................... 241
129. Describe your favorite movie ......................................................................................................... 243
130. Describe a historic event in your country ..................................................................................... 245
131. Describe an activity that makes you feel excited .......................................................................... 247
132. Describe a piece of equipment in your home ................................................................................ 249
133. Describe an ambition that you have not yet achieved. ................................................................. 251
134. Describe an exciting sport you know. ............................................................................................ 253
135. Describe a photograph in your home. ........................................................................................... 254
136. Describe the stage of life that you have enjoyed the most. .......................................................... 256
137. Describe a time when you did something to help someone you didn't know. ............................ 258
138. Describe a subject you didn't like before but are interested in now. .......................................... 259
139. Describe situation when a child made you laugh. ........................................................................ 260
140. Describe a place where you (usually / often) go to relax. (Not your home) ................................ 262
141. Describe an area of science that you are interested in (medicine, psychology, etc.) ................. 264
142. Describe a bicycle/motorbike/car trip that is interesting ............................................................ 267
143. Describe a time when it was important to tell your friend a truth. You should say: ................ 269
144. Describe a childhood friend of yours ............................................................................................. 270
145. Describe the person you would like to become in ten years ........................................................ 271
146. Describe something that you cherish ............................................................................................. 272
148. Describe a photo of yourself you have taken ................................................................................ 273
149. Describe a thing you refused to lend. ............................................................................................ 275
150. Describe a place that you don't like ............................................................................................... 276
151. Describe an important place you like in your city........................................................................ 277
152. Describe a time that you misunderstood someone ....................................................................... 278
153. Describe an important event that you celebrated ........................................................................ 280
154. Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer. You should say: ............... 281
155 Describe a live sport event you watched. You should say: ........................................................... 283
156.Describe a person’s home you visited that you liked, but would not want to live in. You should say:
................................................................................................................................................................... 284
157. Describe a time when you got close to wild animals. You should say: ....................................... 286

158. Describe a time when you made a promise to someone. You should say: .................................. 287
159. Describe a time when you needed to use your imagination. You should say:............................ 289
160. Describe a time when you encouraged somebody to do something that he/she didn’t want to do292
161. Describe the first day of school ...................................................................................................... 294
162. Describe a computer/phone game you have enjoyed playing since your childhood ................. 296
163. Describe something important to you that your family has had for a long time. ...................... 298
164. Describe a person who you think wears unusual clothes ............................................................. 301
165. Describe a time when you had to wait in a long line of people .................................................... 303
166. Describe a time when you waited a long time for a person. ........................................................ 305
167. Describe a toy you like in your childhood ..................................................................................... 307
168. Describe an interesting conversation with a stranger .................................................................. 311
169. Describe a place in your city you want to go to ............................................................................ 312
Describe a famous person that you are interested in ........................................................................... 316
171. Describe an experience that you got bored when you were with others .................................... 320
172. Describe a time when you gave advice to someone ...................................................................... 322
173. Describe an interesting job that you want to have in the future ................................................ 324
174. Describe an important technological product you bought .......................................................... 333
175. Describe a short trip that you frequently make ........................................................................... 337
176. Describe a loving person that you know. ...................................................................................... 339
177. Describe someone who is talkative................................................................................................. 342
178. Describe a childhood friend of yours ............................................................................................. 346
179. Describe a magazine you enjoy reading. ....................................................................................... 348
180. Describe a city or country where you want to live the most in the future ................................. 354
181. Describe an important event to celebrate (personal important events) ................................. 358
182. Describe a situation when you had to be polite ............................................................................ 362
183.Describe a car/motorbike/bike trip that is interesting. ................................................................. 366
184. Describe a singer that you like ....................................................................................................... 368
185. Describe a happy experience you had. You should say: .............................................................. 370
186. Describe an important place in your city. You should say: .......................................................... 372
187. Describe a quiet place. .................................................................................................................... 375
188. Describe a place you hate to visit .................................................................................................. 380
189. Describe something you bought recently that made you happy. ................................................ 382
190. Describe an art exhibition that you visited. .................................................................................. 386

191. Describe a skill that you think you can teach other people. ........................................................ 389
192. Describe a kind of weather you like............................................................................................... 391
193. Describe a polite person you know. ............................................................................................... 393
194. Describe a time when you ate something for the first time ......................................................... 395
195. Describe a time when you got lost in a town or city ..................................................................... 397
196. Describe a strange person you've met. .......................................................................................... 399
197. Describe a piece of international news you have just recently heard. ........................................ 401
198. Describe the kind of bag you want to own .................................................................................... 402

HƯỚNG DẪN HỌC SÁCH
Hi các bạn,
Mình là Ngọc Bách
Gửi tặng các bạn tổng hợp 200 bài mẫu Speaking band 8.0~9.0 tuyển chọn dành cho năm 2021.
Các bài mẫu này được học sinh của mình chuẩn bị và đã được mình cùng cựu giám khảo IELTS
bản xứ ở UK thầy Alistair correct lại
Tài liệu sẽ cung cấp cho các bạn 1ượng ý tưởng, từ vựng khổng lồ đủ để trả lời mọi đề Speaking
có thể ra trong năm 2021
Hy vọng các bạn sẽ thấy tài liệu có ích
Cám ơn các bạn rất nhiều !
-Ngọc Bách-
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200 BÀI MẪU IELTS SPEAKING 2021
BY NGỌC BÁCH
1. Describe a change that you think would improve your local area
You should say:

What local area
What change
How the change could be made
And explain how this change would be an improvement to your local area.
ANSWER:
I was born and raised in Hanoi and have been here for 27 years. I have watched the city
develop from a small town and grow into a modern metropolitan area in the new era. With the
skyrocketing population of recent years, the city’s environment has become significantly
polluted. As a result, I think environmental laws should be enacted immediately to solve this
problem.
First of all, Hanoi’s mayor should consider putting more trash bins out in the streets so that
people won’t throw rubbish anywhere anytime. In addition, the city police should heavily fine
those who are caught littering the streets. By doing so, not only could we save a lot of money
on cleaning costs but we could also improve the surrounding public scenery.
Secondly, the city should run a campaign to educate people on how to classify and separate
garbage before throwing it out. This is necessary because unsorted garbage contributes to
the pollution of underground water and the earth.
In my opinion, although these above actions are minor, they would contribute to diminishing
the impacts of pollution in our local area if they were done on a collective level.
VOCABULARY
 born and raised in: to describe that you were born in a certain place and that you grew
up there with your parents; “He was born and raised in New York but moved to
California when he was 35.”
 skyrocketing: increasing, to describe when something goes up rapidly by a lot; “The
skyrocketing airline prices have hurt the tourist towns, as fewer people are traveling.”
 significantly: in a sufficiently great or important way as to be worthy of attention, “Our
profit was significantly less this month than we had predicted.”

 enacted: to put a law into place; “New laws have been enacted to keep people safe from
gun violence.”
 rubbish: trash, garbage waste; “There is too much rubbish in this yard. Let’s clean it
up!”
 heavily fine: to fine someone heavily means to charge them a lot of money because
they have violated a law or regulation; “The companies were heavily fined for polluting
the river.”
 littering: throwing trash on the ground rather than putting it in the bin; “Littering is
against the law and you can be fined $1000.”
 scenery: what you see in the natural environment; a beautiful scenery usually includes
beautiful nature scenes, but ugly scenery would have trash and pollution; “The scenery
in the Turkish countryside is beautiful.”
 run a campaign: to organize and work on a program to reach a goal, such as a
campaign to educate people about pollution or teenage pregnancy or alcohol abuse; “He
is in charge of running the campaign to save dogs in our rural areas.”
2. Describe an educational TV program that you have seen
You should say:

What this program was (or, is) about
How often you have watched it
What types of people watch this program
And explain why you think it was (is) educational or explain what you liked or disliked about
this program.
ANSWER:
Since I am very interested in handwork activities, I would like to learn how to make a 3D
card. I love watching TV programs that teach you how to do crafts.
Nowadays, there are so many TV channels that focus on Do-It-Yourself activities but the one
that I find the most interesting and doable is “Art Attack” on Disney Channel. The show airs
for 30 minutes once a week.
This show is made especially for young children and tweens, however, I think it is also
suitable for the parents and adults.
Each episode shows you how to make different arts and craft products, from a handmade craft
to a picture frame, or how to decorate your room, how to make a flower vase from old
newspaper, etc.

By watching these kinds of programs, children are encouraged to develop their imagination.
In addition, it also helps bring parents and kids closer to each other, creating a strong bond
among family members.
VOCABULARY
 handwork activities: when you create something with your own hands; “My daughter
loved to do handwork activities when she was younger.”
 crafts: projects that people like to do that involve creating something that is artsy, but is
not considered fine art. Examples are things that you make to decorate your home,
quilting, sewing, woodworking, etc. “I love to make crafts and give them to people as
presents.”
 Do-It-Yourself: also known as DIY, a popular term to talk about the things that people
can do themselves, like minor house repairs and maintenance, building things and
working in their yards; “My husband loves Do-It-Yourself house projects.”
 doable: something is doable if it can be done, if you can do it; “Her son didn‟t think his
homework was doable, but he was just complaining and being lazy.”
 airs: to air means to run a program on TV or radio; “My favorite TV show airs every
night at 5:00 p.m.”
 tweens: describes kids between the ages of 10 and 12; they are in the tens, but they
aren‟t yet considered teenagers because they haven‟t hit the numbers that say teen, like
thirteen; “I have a class full of crazy tweens!”
 suitable for: appropriate for, it‟s okay for; “This show is not suitable for children and
that is why it is rated TV14.”
 episode: an episode is one installment of a series of shows; a season may have 8 to 10
episodes or more; “Did you see the new episode of Game of Thrones?”
 decorate: to put things in a room to add color and artwork; “My bedroom is so boring; I
need to decorate it!”
 these kinds of programs: use these kinds of to talk about something in the plural; use
this kind of to talk about something singular; “I like these kinds of bananas.” or “I like
this kind of banana.”
 to create a strong bond: to make a strong connection with another person: “I created a
strong bond with the members of my soccer team over the last two years.”
 to fold a paper: to move the different parts of a piece of paper over other parts;
“Origami is the art of folding paper into intricate shapes.”

 imagine if: to think about a possibility, “Imagine if you were rich. What would you
buy?”
3. Describe a situation (or time) when you received some useful advice
You should say:
What the situation was
Who gave you the advice
What the advice was
and explain how this advice was useful to you.
ANSWER:
- It was 5 years ago when I was in my junior year of college, I was struggling to find out what
career would I follow in the future. As juniors, we had to choose courses related to our
business concentration such as marketing, finance, human resources or management. At that
moment, I was confused since I did not specifically like any of them.
- As the deadline closely approached, I had to quickly make my decision. I decided to talk
with my father, a wise man, about my problem. Different from many other parents who always
make decisions for their children; my father guides me to the answer and lets me choose what
I want.
- He asked me what I would like my life to be like when I graduated, then analyzed my
personality, discussed my strengths and weaknesses. He also showed me some career paths I
could follow if I chose certain options.
- After an hour of talking to him, everything had become clearer and I finally made my
decision to follow a career in finance. Thanks to the conversation that day, I understood more
about myself. Five years have passed, I am now a financial analyst for an entertainment
company and I have never regretted my decision.
VOCABULARY:
 career: your profession, the type of employment you will likely have for a long period
of your life or perhaps your entire life; “She was happy to have chosen a career that
suited her personality perfectly.”
 related to: having to do with, having an association with; in this context the student
needs to take courses that are related to business; “She is tired of taking courses related
to her major; now she just wants to take classes for fun.”

 deadline: a time when something is due, when it has to be done; “I am hoping that we
will finish this project by our deadline.”
 closely approach: to get closer and closer to a certain point or destination in a short
amount of time; when something is closely approaching it means you are very near to
that time; “The baby’s due date is closely approaching and we still aren’t prepared.”
 guides me: to guide is to help someone by showing them a way or by giving specific
information or assistance without actually doing the task for them; “The teacher guides
us in how to learn proper study techniques.”
 analyzed my personality: to examine, assess or evaluate your personality from different
points of view; you can take a personality test like the Meyers-Briggs to help see your
patterns and propensities; “My mother is a psychologist and she loves to analyze
people’s personalities to see what makes them tick.”
 regret: to feel sad, repentant, or disappointed over (something that has happened or
been done, especially a loss or missed opportunity). “He regretted not having attended
college sooner.”
4. Describe a place you have visited that has been affected by pollution.
You should say:
what place it was
why you went there
how it was affected by pollution
and explain how you felt about this situation.
ANSWER
It is regrettable that Hanoi, where I’m living, is negatively affected by pollution and the major
environmental problems it is facing are water pollution, air pollution and noise pollution.
There are various reasons why this city is badly polluted. Firstly, due to modernization,
more and more vehicles such as cars and motorbikes are used. This leads to an increase in
exhaust emissions which contaminate the atmosphere, not to mention the rising level of noise
pollution. Secondly, factories and industrial zones in the city have discharged a huge amount
of untreated waste into rivers, causing death to many fish and other aquatic animals.
In fact, pollution makes people here less healthy, and some even suffer from life-threatening
diseases such as lung cancer, skin cancer, and so on. Therefore, the government must deal with
this problem right away. Cutting down on vehicle use is the best way to reduce air pollution

and noise pollution. We can do this by encouraging people to use public transportation.
Besides, those who litter should pay a heavy fine. Finally, I think the best solution is to raise
awareness and educate people to protect the environment.
VOCABULARY
 regrettable: [adjective] something that you are sorry about and wish that it had not
happened.
Example: It is regrettable that only a minority of people are concerned about the
environment.
 exhaust emissions: [noun phrase] waste gases that come out of a car or other vehicle.
Example: The exhaust emissions from big trucks cause serious air pollution in my city.
 contaminate: [verb] make a place or thing dirty, by adding a substance that is

dangerous or polluting.
Example: Every day, more and more vehicles enter the city centre and contaminate the
atmosphere with their exhaust emissions.
 discharge: [verb] when somebody discharges a gas or liquid, they release it and it goes
into the water or the air.
Example: The factory was fined for discharging chemicals into the river.
 aquatic: [adjective] living in water

Example: Rivers which are clean have a lot of aquatic life, such as fish and frogs.
 life-threatening: [adjective] likely to kill someone.

Example: Aid workers in poor countries often have to deal with difficult, life-
threatening situations.
 cutting down on: [phrasal verb] reducing the size, amount or number of something.
Example: You will improve your health by cutting down on cigarettes.
 awareness: [noun] knowing that something exists and is important.

Example: In schools, campaigns about awareness of road safety are essential for young
children.
5. Describe a time when you tried a new food for the first time.
You should say:

what food it was
where you ate it
what it tasted like
and explain whether or not you liked this food
ANSWER
Well, I’m a great fan of barbecues and I would like to talk about the first time I tried some
typical barbecue food. This happened when I was 10 years old.
My familiy went out to have dinner to celebrate my younger sister’s birthday. After putting so
much thought into some new savoury food to have for our meal, we decided to go to a BBQ
restautant on Ba Trieu street.
We ordered four dishes with three different tastes. One of them which really interested me
was grilled-Australian beef, flavoured with something spicy, rich and aromatic. It not only
tasted delicious, but also looked appealing. Also, it went well with two kinds of dipping
sauces and was served with baguettes. There was also a salad, which gave it a mild taste to
contrast with the spicy flavours.
The idea of a barbecue originated in America, and for us it was a novel and sophisticated
meal.
What I really enjoyed was that we could watch as it was cooked in front of us. I loved how
juicy it was and the aroma it had. Just mentioning it makes my mouth water. I mean, the
BBQ was out of this world. That was the first time I had tried it, and I would have liked to
have kept on coming back for more, but I was just too full.
VOCABULARY
barbecues: [noun] a meal, usually eaten outdoors, which is cooked over an open fire.
Example: Every summer, my friends and I have barbecues on the beach and we each bring
some beef or other meat to grill.

put thought into: [expression] considered seriously and carefully.
Example: I put so much thought into my school project that I received a very high score.
savoury: [adjective] having a delicious taste, usually containing salt.
Example: We ate some tasty savoury biscuits with cheese to finish our meal.
dish: [noun] food prepared in a particular way as part of a meal.
Example: Our meal arrived at the table – two dishes of meat, with rice and salad.
flavour: [verb] add to food to give it a special taste.

Example: The fish was flavoured with spices and it tasted delicious.
aromatic: [adjective] having a pleasant smell or aroma.

Example: She grows a number of aromatic plants in her garden.
dipping sauces: [noun] different types of sauces in which you can put your food quickly, take
the food out again and eat it.
Example: The chef flavours his dipping sauces with different spices – some sweet spices and
some hot ones.
baguettes: [noun] white bread in the shape of long sticks.

Example: The cheese baguettes which we ordered were hard on the outside and soft on the
inside.
mild: [adjective] not strong or severe.

Example: I prefer cheese that is mild rather than cheese with a strong flavour.
originate: [verb] happen or appear for the first time in a particular place or situation.
Example: Tobacco originated in America and was later brought to Europe.
novel: [adjective] new, and different from anything known before.

Example: Drive-in restaurants are a novel idea which originated in America.
sophisticated: [adjective] typical of rich or socially important people.

Example: They like to dress in very sophisticated clothes, although they don’t have a lot of
money.
juicy: [adjective] having a lot of juice, so that it is good to eat.

Example: He bought some delicious juicy oranges at the market.

makes my mouth water: [expression] makes me feel hungry.
Example: Thinking about Thai cuisine makes my mouth water.
out of this world: [expression] wonderful and exciting.

Example: The new James Bond film is out of this world.
full: [adjective] having had enough to eat.

Example: Although I was full after lunch, I still ate an ice-cream in the afternoon.
6. Describe your favourite season or time of the year.

You should say:
what season (or time of the year) it is
what the weather is like at this time
what people usually do at this time
and explain why you enjoy that season or time of the year or
and explain why you enjoy that season or time of the year more than other seasons or times of
the year.
ANSWER
Well, I’m living in Hanoi and you know, the weather patterns are quite different between the
North and the South of Vietnam. There are four distinct seasons in Hanoi and the one that I
like the most is autumn.
Autumn in Hanoi usually lasts for about 3 months, starting in September and ending in
November. It seems to be the most comfortable season in the whole year. The weather during
the fall is normally cool with some sunny spells. The temperature tends to fluctuate from 20 to
25 degree celsius. Occasionally, there are light rains in the evening but they are often just short
showers.
With the cool breezes, it is ideal for people to get together outside and hang out with their
friends. Anothing thing is that everyone wants to have picnics in the urban areas near Hanoi
and take some pictures with their family. Also, this time of the year marks the beginning of a
new school year for students around Vietnam.

In contrast, the summer is boiling, so it is torturing to have to go out in the streets under the hot
sun. Likewise, the winter is freezing and in a typical spring there are usually heavy rains. So,
these are really unattractive features of the other seasons. However, the fresh weather during
the autumn really makes me feel relaxed and energizes me to do a lot of things. That is the
major reason why I prefer the fall and why it has always been my favourite time of the year.
VOCABULARY
 weather patterns: [noun] the regular way in which the weather changes throughout the
year.
Example: Due to climate change, the familiar weather patterns are becoming less
predictable.
 distinct: [adjective] clearly different or of a different type.

Example: Traditional Vietnamese dishes are very distinct from Thai cuisine.
 fall: [noun] North American English uses ‘fall’ and British English uses ‘autumn’.
Example: In the fall, many people are already buying warm winter clothes ready for the
really cold weather.
 spells: [noun] short periods of time.

Example: It will rain for most of the day, but there will be some dry spells.
 light: [adjective] not great in amount.

Example: The weather forecast is for light showers only, so don’t worry if you forget to
take your umbrella.
 showers: [noun] short periods of rain.

Example: Today, there will be some showers, but there will also be many sunny spells.
 breezes: [noun] winds that are not strong.

Example: The gentle breezes moved the curtains in my window just a little.
 hang out: [phrasal verb] spend a lot of time in a place.

Example: During the school holidays, I hang out in the park with my friends.
 marks: [verb] indicates the time of an event or when something regularly happens.

Example: When the leaves of the trees turn to red, this marks the beginning of
autumn/the fall.
 boiling: [adjective] extremely hot.

Example: In the summer weather, I was boiling in my overcoat!
 torturing: [verb] causing severe discomfort or unhappiness.

Example: It was torturing for me to see him slowly becoming more and more ill.
 freezing: [adjective] extremely cold.

Example: Don’t forget to wear your winter coat and hat – it’s freezing outside.
 energize: [verb] give someone more energy or strength.

Example: The words of the football manager during the interval really energized the
players.
7. Describe an occasion when you got up very early.

You should say:
when it happened
why you got up early
who you were with
and explain how you felt about getting up early.
ANSWER
Well, I am going to share with you a story of one time when I got up very early. To be honest,
getting up early was not really my sort of thing on a regular basis, only on some very special
occasions. One such time was during the summer holiday last year.
It was our trip to Da Nang with my whole family, which lasted for 5 days. There were lots of
things planned ahead, so I did the homework carefully. Because we wanted to avoid rush hours
that would probably ruin our whole trip, we had to wake up at 5am to allow time for our
careful preparations. It took us 2 hours to get to the airport and fly to Da Nang in the morning.
I felt a little bit sleepy because this was the first time I had had to deal with such an early start.
However, it promised to be a great time for my extended family to get together, so I was really
excited about it. There were 10 of us altogether, and of course we were chatting to each other

all the way there. When we arrived, what really attracted me was the fresh air at Da Nang
beach. At once, the incredible view totally banished all thoughts of sleep.
This amazing trip included many fun times to look back on and it gave all of us a chance to
bond with each other. I learnt the hard way that getting up early was as not challenging as I had
thought. If I tried my best, I knew that I could do it without too much trouble. For sure, I will
make more trips like that in the near future.
VOCABULARY:
 my sort of thing: [expression] something which interests me or something which I like
to do.
Example: Rock music is not my sort of thing, so I always listen to classical music.
 rush hours: [noun] the times of day when the roads are full of traffic, so it is difficult to
reach your destination.
Example: There are usually more car accidents during the morning and evening rush
hours.
 ruin: [verb] spoil something, so that there is no longer any pleasure in it.
Example: The wind and rain every day ruined our holiday.
 sleepy: [adjective] feeling tired and wanting to go to sleep.

Example: After working hard all day, I felt sleepy and went to bed early.
 get together: [verb] if two or more people get together, they meet each other, having
arranged the meeting before.
Example: Shall we get together for a coffee and a chat on Friday?
 chatting: [verb] talking together in a friendly way.

Example: When the teacher arrived, the students stopped chatting and paid attention.
 fresh air: [noun] pleasantly clean and cool.

Example: After working in the office all day, it was nice to go outside and get some
fresh air walking home through the park.
 banished: [verb] made someone or something go away.

Example: The confidence of the driving instructor banished all my fears of learning to
drive.

 look back: [phrasal verb] think about something in your past.
Example: She looks back on her childhood as the happiest time of her life.
 bond: [verb] develop or create a friendly relationship with someone.
Example: If a project is to be successful, the team members must all bond and work
together effectively.
 learnt the hard way: [expression] did something in a way which was more difficult
than necessary.
Example: He learnt the hard way not to drink and drive. He is now recovering in
hospital after the car accident.
 without too much trouble: [expression] with no great difficulty.

Example: He has a natural talent for music, so he learnt to play the piano without too
much trouble.
8. Describe one of your best (= one of your close, or good) friends.

You should say:
who this person is
who long you have known them (= him or her)
Or, How you first met
what you do together
and explain why you think this person is a good friend
ANSWER:
I would like to describe my best friend, Huong, whom I have known for roughly 10 years. I
first met her at primary school when she was my classmate. At first, she was quite shy and
did not want to talk with anyone, which made me feel that she was a bit proud. However,
when we became close friends, she was more sociable and amiable.
We have done a lot of things together. Studying at the same schools, we have various mutual
friends. So, we usually throw parties at the weekends or have a picnic together. Besides,
whenever I get into trouble, I turn to her for help. For example, I remember when I got bad
marks in the mock university entrance exam, she consoled me and then we studied together

until the official exam took place. Finally, we had the opportunity to study at our favorite
college.
At present, despite the fact that we have different plans and goals to pursue, I believe that we
will be best friends for good and we will try our best to maintain this relationship.
VOCABULARY
 roughly: [adverb] approximately, but not exactly.
Example: In the exam, I wrote roughly 300 words for my essay.
 close friends: [expression] friends who know each other very well and like each other a
lot.
Example: Close friends usually share the same interests and have no secrets from each
other.
 amiable: [adjective] pleasant and easy to like

Example: Our form teacher is very amiable and we all enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in
her classes.
 mutual friends: [expression] friends which are shared by two or more people. Example:
Although we had not met before, when we started chatting, we discovered that we had
some mutual friends.
 throw parties: [expression] give parties.

Example: Some Hollywood film stars throw parties which hundreds of people attend.
 consoled: [verb] gave sympathy to someone who is unhappy.

Example: After the team lost the match, the coach consoled the players and told them
that they had played well.
 for good: [expression] permanently

Example: I decided to leave New York for good and move to Europe.
 try our best: do as much as possible to achieve something

Example: Although we tried our best, we failed the exam.
9. Described a success you have had in your life.
You should say:

what it was
how you achieved it
what others thought about your success
and explain how this success affected you.
ANSWER
The biggest success I have ever had was passing the university entrance examination.
As you know, this exam is very challenging and requires careful preparation over a long
period of time. Therefore, since the very beginning of high school, I always tried my best to
study well.
Every day, I paid attention to every lesson at school and wrote down important points
carefully. Besides the required classes, I attended some extra ones to broaden my knowledge
as well as review what I had learned before. Moreover, at the weekends, I joined a few study
groups where I could discuss and solve difficult exercises with my friends. I must say that I
worked my fingers to the bone in order to get into my dream university.
Finally, my efforts paid off. I passed the university entrance exam and became a student at my
favorite school. Of course, my parents and relatives were very proud of me. And this success
has motivated me to set and achieve other goals in my life.
VOCABULARY
 to pass an exam (passing) [verb]: to get the required grade or score on a test that
allows you to get into a program, a university or receive a certificate
Example: I hope I pass my exam on my first try; I don’t want to have to take it twice.
 careful preparation [adjective+noun]: taking care when you prepare for something,
when you get ready for something, like a test
Example: Becoming a prima ballerina takes careful preparation over many years.
 to pay attention [expression]: to carefully watch or listen to someone or something

Example: He thought he had paid attention to his boss when he was giving him
directions, but later that evening he realized he didn’t really know how to finish the
report.

 to write down [phrasal verb]: to write something on a piece of paper, to jot down, to
take notes, to record in written form
Example: My teacher suggested that I write down only the key points of the lecture,
rather than trying to write down everything I hear.
 required [adjective]: necessary, something that you must do, a required class is one
that you must take for graduation or to receive a degree or a certificate
Example: In order to graduate, there are 20 required courses in math, science, English,
social studies and art.
 to broaden my knowledge [expression]: to learn more about a specific topic or to

learn more about a variety of things, in general
Example: My professor said that I should broaden my knowledge of the banking
industry, and so he gave me three books to read.
 review [verb]: to study or look at (something) again

Example: The night before a test, I review my notes and work through some sample
problems in order to prepare myself to do well.
 study group [noun]: a group of people who come together specifically to study a topic
by discussing and working through problems together
Example: Our physics study group meets every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
 discuss [verb]: to talk about something with another person or in a group

Example: Last night we didn’t have time to discuss what we will present at the
conference, so we decided to meet again tomorrow morning to figure that out.
 to work your fingers to the bone [expression]: to work really hard at something, to
the point of exhaustion
Example: She worked her fingers to the bone and still wasn’t able to complete the
project by the deadline.
 dream [adjective]: most desirable or ideal

Example: My dream vacation would include swimming with dolphins.
 efforts paid off [expression]: your work yields good results

Example: Her efforts to improve her math skills paid off; she got a 98% on her math
test.

 to motivate [verb]: to provide with a motive or reason for doing something
Example: Watching his father finish his first marathon motivated his son to train hard
for six months to be able to run a marathon along with his father.
 to achieve [verb]: to bring to a successful end; carry through; accomplish; to get or

obtain by effort
Example: The young man achieved his goal of learning French in one year.
10. Describe a family (not your own family) that you like.
You should say:
where this family lives
who the members of the family are
how you know them
what each person in this family does in life (student/work/retired etc.)
and explain why you like this family.
ANSWER:
I would like to talk about a family that I am very close to, it’s my uncle’s family.
His family has 2 daughters who are around the same age as me; therefore, I usually drop in to
his house to chat with them. At times, we bake some cakes and take them to our grandparents’
house; then we have an overnight sleep there. Besides, we often hang out together, especially
at the weekends just to take it easy and enjoy ourselves so as to get ready for a new week.
Their parents, I mean my uncle and aunt, are very warm-hearted, and they both work as
college teachers. So, whenever I run into difficulties with my homework, I usually turn to
them for help. I remember when I was small, I used to live in my uncle’s house and they
looked after me as if I had been their daughter. Hence, our relationships are out-of-this-world,
although we don’t have much time together like before. But on special occasions such as the
Tet holiday, we will gather at my grandparents’ house to make Chung cake, enjoy a firework
performance as well as wish New year’s greetings to each other.
As a final point, I hope that we can maintain this close relationship for ever.

VOCABULARY
 close to: [adjective] knowing someone very well and liking them a lot.
Example: I am still very close to my best friend, and we meet up regularly.
 drop in: [phrasal verb] pay an informal visit to someone.

Example: I was passing your house, so I decided to drop in and have a chat.
 overnight: [adjective] for one night.

Example: All the hotels were full and I could not find any overnight accommodation.
 hang out: [phrasal verb] spend a lot of time in a place.
Example: During the school holidays, a lot of kids hang out at the shopping mall.
 take it easy: [expression] relax and avoid working too hard or doing too much.
Example: The doctor told me to take it easy for a few days until I felt better.
 warm-hearted: [adjective] kind and generous.

Example: My parents were very warm-hearted and they always helped other people
with their problems.
 run into difficulties: [expression] experience difficulties.

Example: As I did not understand much French, I soon ran into difficulties when I
visited Paris.
 looked after: [phrasal verb] were responsible for and took care of me.
Example: My aunt looked after us while our mother was in hospital.
11. Describe a photo of yourself that you had taken

You should say:
when the photo was taken
how this photograph was taken
where the photo was taken
who took the photo
and explain why the photo was taken or why you think it is a good photo
ANSWER:

Today, I would like to describe a photo of myself that I had taken by a friend. Honestly, I kind
of do not like posing for pictures and I only do so on very special occasions. That photo was
taken at my university with my extended family last year during the graduation ceremony, you
know, and it was special because it was one of the best family moments in our lives.
When I graduated from university, my whole family – that is my grandparents, my parents and
a lot of my siblings – brothers and sisters - came to celebrate the day with me. Everyone was
extremely cheerful and really proud of me. I remembered that we had not had a family get-
together for ages, so I came up with the idea of taking a photo together in order to save our
memorable day on film.
The House of Culture in my university was the place that we chose to take this photo. I asked
one of my classmates to help us to capture that moment. He was really good at photography
and so I had total confidence in him. He put everyone at their ease, so it was really a
wonderful photo because there were brilliant smiles from all the members of our whole family
group.
Whenever I look back at that photo, I feel very emotional and happy because it not only
marked a major turning-point in my life, but it was also a valuable opportunity for my
extended family to strengthen our relationship. I think sometimes it is necessary for us to
capture moments and save them as notable memories in our lives.
VOCABULARY
 posing: [verb] sitting or standing in a particular position in order to be photographed.
Example: I have an old photo of my grandparents, posing in front of a statue in
the park.
 extended family: [noun] a family group that includes not only children and
parents, but also uncles, aunts, grandparents, cousins......
Example: When our extended family all met for a meal, there were probably
about 50 of us at the restaurant.
 sibling: [noun] a brother or sister.

Example: I went to a different school from most of my siblings.
 get-together: [noun] an informal meeting or party.

Example: Most of the students were more interested in social get-togethers than
going to lectures.
 for ages: [expression] for a long time.

Example: How are you? I haven’t seen you for ages.
 put...at their ease: [expression] make someone relaxed, so they do not feel
nervous or embarrassed.
Example: Our friendly host at the party soon put everyone at their ease.
 smiles: [noun] the expression that you have on your face when you are happy.
Example: After they won the match, all the players had big smiles on their faces.
 look back: [phrasal verb] think about something in your past.

Example: When I look back at my schooldays, I realise that I was not happy at
that time.
 marked: [verb] indicated an event that was important.
Example: The celebrations last month marked the 90th birthday of the Queen.
 turning point: [noun] a time when an important change takes place, usually with the
result that a situation improves.
Example: The promotion to manager marked a turning point in her career.
 capture: [verb] film or record something/someone.

Example: The video camera captured the moment of the accident.
 strengthen: [verb] make stronger.

Example: The President said that he was determined to strengthen his country’s
relations with China.
 notable: [adjective] important and deserving to receive attention.

Example: She achieved notable success as a famous writer of books for children.
12. Describe a long car journey you went on
You should say:
where you went
why you went there
who you travelled with
what you saw on the trip (on the way).
and explain why you went by car.

ANSWER
- Like many other young people, I don’t have the habit of waking up early every day, only
for special occasions. Last weekend, I and a group of my friends decided to go on a trip to the
mountainous area of Vietnam called Mu Cang Chai. We had to leave very early in the
morning so that we did not get stuck in the traffic. In addition, we would have more time to
spend there.
It wasn’t easy to get up early in the morning, because I had been so excited about the trip that I
had barely slept that night. I had never been to Mu Cang Chai before. It is located in the
northern part of Vietnam, so I knew that we faced a long drive ahead. We had decided to go
by car since, that way, all 5 of us could travel together. Moreover, everyone reckoned that it
would be safer than going by motorbike. / Waking up early did not feel that bad at all, even
though it was the first time I had done so for many months. To begin with, I felt a bit sleepy,
but then the pure morning air freshened me completely.
- After 5 hours driving, we arrived at our destination. We were amazed to see a vast land filled
with the yellow color of terraced rice fields, ready to be harvested. Under the sunlight, these
rice fields sparkled like gold.
- We stayed for one night with a local host and helped the family with their regular tasks
before setting out for home the next day. It was such an amazing trip, and it helped us to
learn more about the countryside and the way of life of those who live there. I’d love to make
more trips like that in the future.
VOCABULARY:
 get stuck: [verb phrase] to be in an unpleasant situation that you can‟t escape from.
Example: I left work early, because I didn‟t want to get stuck in traffic on my way
home.
 barely: [adverb] something that can be achieved, but only with difficulty.
Example: We barely had time to catch the train, so we ran all the way to the station.
 faced a long drive ahead: [verb phrase] a long car journey.

Example: My advice is to sleep well if you face a long drive ahead the next day.
 reckon: [verb] to think or have an opinion about something.

Example: If I want to lose weight, I reckon that I will have to eat less bread.
 freshen: [verb] to make something cooler and more pleasant.

Example: The rain freshened the air.
 vast: [adjective] very big.

Example: The Amazon is a vast rainforest.
 harvest: [verb] to cut and collect a crop, such as rice.

Example: Every year, bananas are harvested from the trees on my uncle‟s farm.
 sparkle: [verb] to shine brightly.

Example: The sky sparkled with thousands of stars.
 setting out: [phrasal verb] leaving a place and beginning a journey.

Example: I finished my breakfast and set out for the train station.
13. Describe a team project for study or entertainment

You should say:
When you did it
Where you did it
Who you did it with
How you did it
Why you liked it or disliked it
ANSWER
Well, when it comes to teamwork, I can only think of a bad memory. I remember when I was
a first year student, my teacher asked me and some other students in my class to set up a team
project. A girl was assigned to be the leader and we had to prepare a presentation about our
university. My teacher thought it would make a great contribution to our friendship, and the
whole thing done with the best of intentions. But it turned out to be the worst team project
ever.
of us were freshmen, so my team was essentially a bunch of strangers who I happened to be
teamed up with. I didn’t know anything about the others, and they knew nothing about me.
Moreover, it was obvious that the leader didn’t have any leadership skill. She didn’t know how
to allocate work to individual team members. She always sat on the fence, I mean, she let
every member raise their voice but she didn’t know which one would be the best. As a result,

she wasn’t able to make any decisions. No one in our team showed any respect for her. They
only did what they wanted to do. And I was no exception. I was too busy doing my own
thing. In the end, no one did any work and nothing was done. Several weeks later, I was still
kicking myself for taking part in such a team project.
VOCABULARY
 When it comes to: [expression] as for something; speaking about a particular topic
Example: When it comes to trouble, little boys know how to cause it.
 assign: [verb] to give a particular job or piece of work to someone
Example: The case has been assigned to our most senior officer.
 freshmen: [noun] first-year university or college students

Example: The dean of the university gave a speech of welcome to all the freshmen who
had arrived there to study.
 A bunch of: [expression] a large group

Example: She gave me a bunch of flowers.
 allocate: [verb] to give something to someone as their share of a total amount, to use in
a particular way
Example: The government is allocating £10 million for health education.
 Sit on the fence: [idiom] not to take sides in a dispute; not to make a clear choice
between two possibilities in a dispute.
Example: My tutor told me to support one side of the argument or the other, and not to
sit on the fence.
 Do one’s own thing: [expression] following one’s own interests and ideas, without
considering other people
Example: On Sundays, I just enjoy doing my own thing without any regular
commitments.
 To kick oneself for: [idiom] regret doing something

Example: I’m kicking myself for not buying that T-shirt.

14. Describe someone you know who recently moved to new accommodation.
You should say:
who he or she is
what kind of accommodation they moved to
and explain why they moved.
ANSWER
I’m going to share with you a story about one of my friends who recently moved to new
accommodation. We had a chance to meet 5 years ago when I travelled to Ho Chi Minh city,
and we hit it off pretty well. We have kept in touch with each other regularly since then. And
she has now left there for Hanoi because of her upcoming job.
Before moving here, she gave me a call to ask me to help her to find a small apartment in the
centre of Hanoi. Fortunately, I knew a person who had one to rent near Hoan Kiem lake. It
seemed to fit her needs, I guess, so I sent her some photos of this apartment. Although I still
could not be sure if she would like it, it turned out that she was really interested in it.
It is kind of a serviced fully furnished apartment including air conditioner, washing machine,
hair dryer – just about everything you can think of. It is about 50 metres square with only one
bedroom and modern interior decor. What she really loved was the small balcony with a view
of Hoan Kiem lake. She finds it wonderful and relaxing when sitting there and enjoying a cup
of coffee after a long stressful day at work. Also she can get to work in almost no time, just
about 5 minutes.
My friend and I threw a house warming party for her. At weekends, the three of us tend to
get together just to hang out and take it easy. Because she lives away from her family, I have
tried my best to help her deal with unfamiliar situations in her new accommodation as much as
possible. She is really grateful to me and she treated me to a dinner as a way of thank you.
VOCABULARY:
 hit it off: [expression] have a good friendly relationship with someone.
Example: I met some new work colleagues at the office today, and we hit it off straight
away.
 kept in touch: [expression] maintained contact with someone, by calling or writing to

them.

Example: Have you kept in touch with your old friends from university?
 upcoming: [adjective] something that will happen soon.

Example: It is not certain who will win the upcoming presidential election.
 fit her needs: [expression] be suitable for her.

Example: The course was perfect to fit her needs, because the qualification at the end
would enable her to become a teacher.
 turned out: [phrasal verb] happened or ended in a particular way.

Example: I was not allowed to enter the country, because it turned out that my visa had
expired.
 serviced apartment: [noun] services like housekeeping, regular cleaning, parking,

security are usually provided.
Example: A serviced apartment provides many of the comforts and conveniences of a
hotel room.
 just about: [adverb] almost.

Example: Although I only started the course last week, I know just about all of my
fellow students.
 decor: [noun] the style in which the inside of a building is decorated.

Example: The restaurant has an elegant new decor, including lighter colours and large
paintings.
 in almost no time: [expression] very rapidly.

Example: If you take the fast train, you should arrive there in almost no time.
 house warming party: [noun] a party given by someone who has just moved into a
new house.
Example: At my house warming party, I invited all my new neighbours.
 hang out: [phrasal verb] spend time in a place, without any special purpose.
Example: I sometimes hang out at my local coffee shop, in case any of my friends call
in for a coffee.
 take it easy: [expression] relax.

Example: My doctor told me to take it easy and not to do any heavy physical work.
15. Describe a good part of your personality or character.

You should say:
what it is
what this part of your personality or character is like
how it affects your life or work
and explain why you think it is good.
ANSWER
Well, I’m going to talk about a good aspect of my character. I’m kind of an ambitious person,
even though I’m not sure if this personal trait is really beneficial for me in every situation. I
think it helps me pretty well, not only in my studies but also in my own life, though.
Personally, I suppose it is quite good for young people to have this kind of personal trait,
because it allows them to live and work more positively. I normally tend to set high goals and
show strong determination to achieve them by all means, no matter what difficult situations
I’m in. I mean, I do not like playing it safe. Instead, I like being challenged in general.
However, when you have too high expectations of something and you are not able to live up
to them, you may feel under pressure and lose confidence in yourself. So you should be
careful and be sure that your goals are realistic for you to pursue.
Up to now, I have found that my ambition has had more of a positive influence on me than a
negative one. Because of my ambitious nature, I force myself to set clear targets, to be
committed and to try my best to attain my goals, and all these things motivate me a lot to
follow my plans with drive and energy. It’s an amazing feeling of achievement on those
occasions when my efforts are successful.
VOCABULARY
 aspect: [noun] a particular part or feature of something.
Example: Her impatience is one aspect of her character that I don’t like.
 trait: [noun] a particular quality in your personality.
Example: The most notable trait of British people is their politeness.

 beneficial: [adjective] having a helpful or useful effect or result.
Example: A good diet and regular exercise are beneficial for your health.
 playing it safe: [expression] being careful and avoiding risks.
Example: When meeting strangers, I advise playing it safe – do not tell them too many
details about your life.
 challenge: [verb] test someone’s ability or skill, especially in an interesting way.
Example: In the IELTS exam, students are being challenged to show their English
language skills.
 expectations: [noun] hopes that something good will happen.
Example: She went to college with great expectations.
 live up to: [phrasal verb] to do as well as you expect or hope.
Example: I did not enjoy the film – it did not live up to all the great reviews that I had
read.
 under pressure: [expression] anxious about something which you have to do.
Example: The team is under pressure to win an important match tomorrow.
 pursue: [verb] do something or try to achieve something over a period of time.
Example: My brother wants to pursue his ambition to become an actor.
 attain: [verb] succeed in getting something, usually after a lot of effort.
Example: After many hours of climbing, they attained their goal of reaching the top of
the mountain.
 motivate: [verb] make somebody want to do something, usually something which
requires a lot of hard work or effort.
Example: The teacher motivates all her students to work hard and pass their exams.
 drive: [noun] energy and determination to achieve things.
Example: No sportsperson will succeed without a strong drive to be the best.
16. Describe a short trip that you frequently make (or, take) but dislike.

You should say:
where you travel from and to
how often you make this trip
why you make this trip
and explain why you dislike this trip.
ANSWER
I would like to talk about a short trip that I frequently take but dislike. My family and I have
been living in Hanoi, however, we always make time for visiting my grandparents every other
weekend in our hometown. It is situated in Ninh Binh province, which lies about 90 kms from
Hanoi.
It normally takes us around 1 hour and a half to get there by car. To be honest, I usually get
carsick, so I do not really enjoy travelling by car on trips outside the city. I mean, it makes me
feel very tired and I have a headache throughout the journey, therefore I tend to fall asleep
instead of staying awake to talk.
Despite the fact that carsickness makes it difficult for me to put up with even this short trip, I
still try my best to take time to visit my grandparents with my small family. You know,
because we are living in a big city, we are so caught up in work and study as well, that our
lifestyle does not allow us to have much time to get together too often.
We always make the most of the family get-together, sharing the cooking, having meals and
swapping a lot of stories with each other. What I really enjoy are the beautiful views of the
countryside that my hometown offers. Once you have seen it, I guess, you would keep coming
back for more. Although it is so tough to stop my carsickness, our family ties and the beauty
of my small hometown will keep drawing me back there.
Vocabulary:
 every other: [adjective] each alternate, every second.
Example: We have to pay the electricity bill every other month – in January, March,
May and so on.
 carsick: [adjective] a feeling in your stomach that makes you want to be sick/vomit
because of the movement of a car.
Example: Whenever I try to read a book or newspaper in a car, I start to feel carsick.

 staying awake: [expression] not going to sleep.
Example: After studying all night, I found it difficult staying awake during the exam.
 carsickness: [noun] the feeling that you are going to be sick when you travel in a car.
Example: We had to stop the car several times during the journey, because I was
suffering from carsickness. I felt better after a short break and a walk for a couple of
minutes.
 put up with: [phrasal verb] accept someone or something which is annoying or

unpleasant, without complaining.
Example: Although our hotel room was small and uncomfortable, we decided to put up
with it for one night.
 caught up in: [phrasal verb] very involved in an activity, so that you do not notice other
things.
Example: I was so caught up in my revision that I forgot to feed the dog.
 get together: [expression] if two or more people get together, they meet each other,
having arranged the meeting before.
Example: Shall we get together for a coffee and a chat on Friday?
 make the most of: [expression] use to the best advantage.

Example: I will make the most of my year in Spain to improve my Spanish.
 swapping: [verb] giving something and receiving something in exchange.

Example: Swapping e-mails after the holiday, we arranged to keep in contact in future.
 offers: [verb] provides the opportunity for something.

Example: The hotel offers excellent facilities for families.
 tough: [adjective] difficult.

Example: I will have to study hard, because the exam is really tough.
 family ties: [noun] strong connections between members of a family.

Example: Now that my sister has moved to Australia, it is difficult to maintain our old
family ties.
 drawing me back: [phrasal verb] attracting or encouraging me to return.

Example: My memories of Paris keep drawing me back to visit the city.

17. Describe a garden or park you enjoyed visiting.
You should say:
where it was
what it looked like
what you did there or, what people did there
and explain why you liked it.
ANSWER
I would like to share with you my impressions of a garden that I visited last summer, which
was full of colour and interest: Claude Monet’s house and garden in Giverny, France.
As a big fan of Monet’s paintings, especially the famous ‘Water Lilies’, I had always dreamed
of seeing the scene in real life. So, when some friends suggested a visit last year, I jumped at
the chance. After a journey of about an hour by train from our hotel, we arrived at Giverny.
The garden was exactly as he had painted it – it was a riot of colour, from the peaceful white
of the water lilies to the striking reds and oranges which filled some of the flowerbeds.
The two parts of the garden complemented each other perfectly. We first admired the array
of bright flowers and fruit trees in the Clos Normand, but my favourite part was the water
garden, and we enjoyed a leisurely stroll, taking in all the colours, perfumes and bird songs.
Monet avidly collected prints of Japanese gardens, and these inspired the Japanese bridges
covered with wisterias, the water lilies in the pond, and the bamboo and weeping willows
which he planted.
For me, it was like a wonderland of colours and a dream come true after so many years.
VOCABULARY
 impression: feeling or feelings (in the plural) about the garden (impressions) “His
impression of the meeting was that it didn’t go very well.”
 fan: although the word is often used in the context of football nowadays, here it means
a person who admires [ Monet’s paintings]. “She is a huge fan of Maroon 5.”

 jumped at the chance: I enthusiastically accepted the opportunity to visit the garden.
“He jumped at the chance to go to Las Vegas with his boss.”
 a riot of colour: a collection of many different colours. “Sandra’s rose garden is a riot
of colour.”
 striking: very attractive and unusual. “The woman he was with was wearing a striking
outfit last night.”
 flowerbeds: a piece of a garden or park in which flowers are grown. “He loves digging
in his flowerbeds.”
 complemented each other: each part of the garden added something different to the
other part, so that the garden as a whole became more attractive. “The wine and the fish
complemented each other to form a perfect meal.”
 the array of bright flowers: the large and impressive collection of flowers. “The array
of bright flowers in her garden surprised everybody. They didn’t realize she had planted
so many varieties.”
 a leisurely stroll: a slow, relaxing walk. “We went for a leisurely stroll along the beach
this morning.”
 taking in all the colours: our eyes noticed all the colours and features of the garden.
“We were taking in all the colours of his garden, when all of a sudden we heard a large
crash outside the garden gate. Two cars had just bumped into each other.”
 avidly: Monet collected prints of Japanese gardens enthusiastically. “He studied
English avidly, from morning until late in the evening.”
 prints: copies of original drawings or paintings. “The artist offered her prints for $100
each.”
 wisterias: white or purple flowers which cover walls, bridges or trees. “The wisterias in
the garden were in full bloom.”
 pond: a small area of still water, usually in a garden. “There are many beautiful fish in
the pond.”
 bamboo: tall tropical plants which have hollow ‘stems’ [the long, thin part of the plant]
used for building or furniture. “Pandas love to eat bamboo.”
 weeping willows: trees which grow near water and have ‘branches’ which hang
downwards. “There are two weeping willows on the property, but we should cut one
down.”
 wonderland: an imaginary place in children’s stories. “The amusement park was a
wonderland for both children and adults.”
18. Describe a free-time activity that you like to do after you have finished your study
or work.

You should say:
what you do
where you do it
when you do it
who you do it with
and explain why you like to do this activity.
ANSWER
Well, I am kind of a workaholic. I am so caught up in my work on a daily basis that I do not

have too much time to relax after a long working day. Listening to music is the only thing that
I really want to do to relax at home.
There are a few things that I normally try to do to wind down, but listening to music is how I
usually like to spend my free time. Because my work takes almost all the time during the day, I
want to make the most of my evening by creating a cozy atmostphere for myself and just put
my feet up. When I stay home, I like to dim the lights, turn on some soft music and enjoy
myself for the rest of the evening. Soft light and sounds help me to chill out pretty well.
I also enjoy grabbing a favourite book and relaxing in a big comfy chair with a blanket and
my pet cat on my lap, while listening to music in the background. It works wonders. I find it
therapeutic and relaxing when I take a little time for myself to play an inspirational song to
unwind. You see, you don’t have to waste a lot of time and money in order to have a restful
evening.
If I take some days off, I will go for a short holiday to get away from all the pressures.
However, for the rest of the days when I have finished my work already, listening to music is
my preferred choice. That is wonderful for me, and so I do not see myself changing my habit
any time soon.
VOCABULARY:
 workaholic: [noun] a person who works very hard and finds it difficult to stop working
and do other things.
Example: My sister is a workaholic – she never takes a day off to relax and have fun.

 caught up in: [phrasal verb] very involved in an activity, so that you do not notice other
things.
Example: I was so caught up in my revision that I forgot to feed the dog.
 wind down: [phrasal verb] rest or relax after a period of activity.

Example: After teaching all day, it’s nice to go and have a coffee to wind down.
 make the most of: [expression] use to the best advantage.

Example: I intend to make the most of the holidays by finishing my assignment.
 cozy: [adjective] warm and comfortable, because you are in a small space.
Example: I feel cozy sitting in front of the fire in my small house.
 put my feet up: [expression] sit down, lie back and rest.
Example: I like to sit in my favourite armchair with a cup of coffee and just put my feet
up after I come home.
 dim: [verb] make a light less bright.

Example: In the theatre, the play was about to begin. The lights were dimmed and the
audience fell silent.
 chill out: [phrasal verb] spend time relaxing.

Example: I like to go out with my friends and chill out – just chatting and having a
coffee.
 grabbing: [verb] having or taking something quickly.

Example: You should have a good lunch – grabbing a sandwich is a bad habit.
 comfy: [adjective] comfortable.

Example: My new bed is really comfy and I fall asleep straight away.
 works wonders: [expression] has a very good effect on someone or something.

Example: A good night’s sleep works wonders for your mind and body.
 therapeutic: [adjective] helping you to relax.

Example: My dentist plays soft music while her patients are waiting, because she says
that it is therapeutic.

 inspirational: [adjective] something that motivates you and makes you have exciting
ideas.
Example: The President gave an inspirational speech to his supporters.
 unwind: [verb] SEE: wind down.
 any time soon: [expression] in the near future.

Example: After our big argument, I am not expecting her to call me any time soon.
19. Describe a person you know whose job is important to society

You should say:
who this person is
how you know this person
what job they do (= he or she does)
and explain why you think their job is important or why you think their work
contributes to society.
ANSWER:
- Today, I am going to talk about a person whose job is important to society/ in the news
whom I would like to meet. It is Kenny G, the saxophonist.
- I first listened to his music when I was very small, starting with the well-known piece
“Forever in Love”. It was so melodious and relaxing that every time I listened to it, I felt like
I was on cloud 9.
- Recently, Kenny G decided to hold a concert in Vietnam and it quickly became a major
news story, covered in all of our media from newspapers to TV, and most radio channels. For
people like me, who have been used to listening to his saxophone recordings since we were
young, this was a once in a lifetime chance to meet him in person and listen to his music at a
live concert, not on a music CD or online playlist.
- Maybe to many people, being a musician doesn’t contribute much to our society. However, I
think that any career that we choose to pursue plays an important role in our lives. If a
business person is important, so is a musician. Imagine a world without music, it would
definitely be so dull and boring. In addition, music also helps us soothe our soul and relax

our brain after hard days at work. Although we cannot quantify its benefit, the positive effects
that music brings to our lives are undeniably worth valuing.
VOCABULARY
 saxophonist: [noun] a person who plays the saxophone.
Example: At the music concert, I thought that the saxophonist and the pianist were
particularly good.
 piece: [noun] here we use „piece‟ to mean a „piece of music‟. We usually use it to refer
to classical music or jazz –not modern or rock music.
Example: At the concert, Kenny G played two pieces which he had written himself.
 melodious: [adjective] music which is pleasant to listen to is „melodious‟.
Example: The piece was so melodious that I remember it whenever I am feeling relaxed
and comfortable.
 on cloud 9: [expression] extremely happy.
Example: When I read that I had passed the exam, I was on cloud 9.
 hold a concert: [verb phrase] to have a concert – we also use „hold a meeting/hold a
competition‟ in the same way.
Example: The organisers decided to hold the concert in New York.
 once in a lifetime: [expression] used to describe something special that is not likely to
happen to you again.
Example: When my friend invited me to Brazil, I knew that this was a once in a
lifetime chance to visit the Amazon rainforest.
 live concert: [noun] a concert when people are watching and listening when the event is
actually taking place.
Example: One thousand people attended the live concert to hear the musicians perform
in person.
 soothe our soul: [verb phrase] to make us feel relaxed and peaceful.
Example: Rock music is loud, but to feel relaxed I prefer to listen to classical music to
soothe my soul.

 quantify: [verb] to express something as an amount or number.
Example: The pleasure that we feel when we see or hear something beautiful is
impossible to quantify.
20. Describe a house or apartment you would like to live in.

You should say:
where this house or apartment would be
what it would look like
when you would like to live there
and explain why you would like to live in such a place
- Today I am going to share with you a description of my ideal apartment that I would like
to live in. Since I live in a big city, it is probably more convenient to buy a condo in a building
complex.
- I prefer a cozy place, so, I would expect it to be not too big, about 90 to 100 square meters,
with 2 bedrooms and 2 balconies. In my opinion, this size is perfect for a small family of
parents and one child. When it comes to cleaning the house, you would not feel discouraged
by all the chores you have to do.
- It would be great if my apartment overlooked [1] a river or bridge, and it should be located
on a high floor like the 10th or above. As a person who loves color and nature, I would
decorate my house with a lot of paintings and plants. I would make a hanging garden in one
of my balconies [2] and put small chairs and tables out, so that I could sit there and enjoy my
small garden. I would use yellow -tinted bulbs and lamps all over the apartment to make it
cozier.
- If I got the chance [1], I would love to make my dream apartment become a reality as soon
as possible, because I have always wanted to move out of my parents‟ house. Owning an
apartment would allow me to do whatever I want, whenever I want.

VOCABULARY
 condo: [noun] one apartment that you own in a building with other apartments.
However, the shared areas are owned by everyone.
Example: The owners of the condos share the swimming pool and children‟s play areas
that are part of the apartment complex.
 building complex: [noun] a group of similar buildings of one type in the same place.
Example: The buildings in the sports complex included a gymnasium and a basketball
court.
 cozy: [adjective] small, but warm, comfortable and safe.
Example: Although it was cold outside, his small apartment was cozy and so we stayed
overnight.
 balcony: [noun] something that is built on the outside wall of a building, like a small
platform with a wall or rail around it for safety.
Example: We had drinks on the hotel balcony, enjoying the view of the sea.
 discouraged: [adjective] feeling less enthusiastic about something.
Example: when I looked at all the homework that I had to finish, I felt quite
discouraged. However, I decided to start doing it immediately.
 chores: [noun] routine tasks.
Example: I have to do some chores every day, such as cleaning the kitchen and washing
the dishes.
 overlook: [verb] if an apartment overlooks a place, this means that you can see that
place from the window or balcony of the apartment.
Example: We had lunch in a restaurant overlooking a lake.
 floor: [noun] all the rooms that are on the same level of a building.
Example: On the 10th floor of my apartment block, there are 6 different apartments.
 hanging garden: [noun] a type of garden on a balcony or roof in which many plants are
in baskets which hang down from baskets fastened to the walls.
Example: Many people in our apartment complex grow flowers in baskets which hang
from the walls of their balconies.
 yellow-tinted: [adjective] having a light yellow colour.
Example: The yellow-tinted lights gave our apartment a relaxing and cozy atmosphere.

21. Describe a time when you waited for (or, had to wait for) something (or someone).
You should say:
who or what you waited for
where you waited
why you waited (or, had to wait)
and explain how you felt while you were waiting
ANSWER:
- Having to wait for somebody is a common situation in our daily lives. There was this one
time I had to wait for my friends, which was so special I‟d like to share the story with you
today.
- It was my birthday and I had invited a group of friends to a coffee house to celebrate it. We
were scheduled to meet there at 8 that evening. I was so eager that I came early. Certainly,
none of them were there, but it was easy to understand because I was early. However, I
waited for half an hour, but nobody showed up, and then I started to feel uncomfortable and
worried. As I was losing my patience, I began to call each of them to ask why they had not
come yet. To my surprise, none of them picked up the phone. I was really fed up, as you can
imagine, because it was my birthday and my friends had treated me like that.
- I waited for a couple more minutes until I couldn‟t stand it anymore, and decided to leave.
As soon as I called the waiter for the bill, I heard the “Happy birthday” song start up in the
coffee house. Out of nowhere, all of my friends suddenly appeared with a birthday cake. They
hugged me and wished me happy birthday. It was such a surprise. My anger quickly gave
way to laughter and we had an unforgettable night chatting until the early hours, drinking
coffee and, of course, eating cake.
VOCABULARY
 show up: [phrasal verb] to arrive where you had arranged to meet somebody
Example: It was getting late when she finally showed up.
 lose my patience: [verb phrase] to become annoyed or angry as a result of a delay.

Example: The train is now 1 hour late, and I am losing my patience.

 fed up: [adjective] bored and unhappy, especially with a situation that has continued for
a long time.
Example: The traffic congestion in our city never seems to get better, so people are
really fed up with the time it takes to get to work.
 stand [something]: [verb] to dislike – used especially in negative sentences.

Example: I like John, but I can‟t stand his sister, she is very rude.
 out of nowhere: [expression] appearing or happening suddenly and unexpectedly

Example: The woman cried for help and, out of nowhere, a policeman arrived.
 hug: [verb] to put your arms around someone and hold them tightly, to show that you
like or love them.
Example: The child ran out of the school and he hugged his mother, who was waiting at
the school gate.
 the early hours: [expression] early in the morning, for example about 2, 3 or 4 am.
22. Describe someone or something that made a lot of noise.

You should say:
who or what made the noise
what the noise was like
and explain what you did when you heard this noise
ANSWER:
- If you live in Vietnam long enough, you will totally agree with me that those who are
driving make a lot of noise, especially during peak traffic hours.
- Vietnamese roads have never been free of the honking noises of all kinds of vehicles from
vans and cars, to mopeds. It is, in my opinion, the most annoying sound you could imagine.
Whenever I heard people honking like angry geese, I felt very annoyed and frustrated.
Vietnamese people should learn when to use the horn properly. It seems to me that they push

the horn all the time because they want to be able to drive fast, while everyone else gets out
of their way.
- Despite the fact that I hate it so much, I cannot give up driving here. So I learned to ignore
it, and use my horn sparingly or just in case of emergency. However, I still think that the city
should have a campaign on educating people to use the horn in a proper way so that the city
is not polluted by noise.
VOCABULARY
 peak traffic hours: [noun phrase] the times when there is most traffic on the roads,
usually when people are travelling to or from work.
Example: Because of all the traffic, it is difficult to cross the road during peak traffic
hours.
 honk: [verb] if you honk the horn of a car or other vehicle, it makes a loud noise like a
warning sound.
Example: She knew that the taxi had arrived, because she heard the horn honking
outside the door.
 geese: [plural noun] this is the plural form of ‘goose’ – a large bird with a long neck. It
makes a loud honking noise.
Example: The geese were on the lake, with some smaller birds nearby, which were
probably ducks.
 horn: [noun] a device in a vehicle for making a loud noise as a warning.

Example: In the traffic jam, some of the drivers were honking the horns of their cars
because they were frustrated with the delay.
 get out of the way: [verb phrase] move out of the route which someone else is taking.
Example: All of the drivers got out of the way, to allow the ambulance to pass.
 sparingly: [adverb] in a way that is careful, so that we only use a little.

Example: He spent his money sparingly, because he only had enough for a simple
meal.
23. Describe a song that has special meaning for you.

You should say:
what this song is about

when and where you first heard this song
how often you listen to this song
and explain why it has special meaning for you.
ANSWER:
- I love listening to music, so I like many songs. However, one of my favorite songs that I want
to talk about today is “Hall of Fame” by The Script and Will.i.am. This song was written for
the 2012 Olympic Games.
- When it came out, it quickly became a hit on every single music chart throughout the world,
not just because of its catchy melody, but also for its meaningful lyrics. The song talks about
how each of us can be a champion or anything we want to be as long as we dedicate our time
and efforts to doing what we are passionate about. The song is played at big athletic events to
pump up the crowd, but you can easily relate to the song at other times as well, especially
when you are about to give up.
- I think this song has such a powerful message that whenever I was tired or had decided to
quit, it would lift me up right away. It made me think about why I had started in the first place
and that I needed to finish the job that I was currently doing.
VOCABULARY:
 became a hit: when a song becomes a hit, it means that it is super popular and that
people are listening to it on the radio and buying it on iTunes or elsewhere.
Example: Taylor Swift‟s song “Bad Blood” became a hit instantly.
 catchy melody: the melody is the part that you sing along with and if it is catchy, it
means that it is easy to sing along with and people like it, you easily remember it and it
sticks in your mind.
Example: The song “Uptown Funk” has a catchy melody that people love to sing.
 meaningful lyrics: lyrics are the words in a song and if they are meaningful, it means
that they actually mean something or have some sort of importance or significance; they
aren‟t just silly, meaningless words.
Example: His sister writes meaningful lyrics for her songs.

 champion: someone who wins, a winner.
Example: He didn’t see himself as a champion until he had reached his goals.
 dedicate: to commit your time to doing something; to make a promise to yourself to do

something.
Example: You were able to get a high score on the test because you dedicated 2 hours
every day to studying and preparing yourself.
 effort: the work that you put into doing something.

Example: The time and effort he spent improving his English paid off when he got a
$10,000 raise.
 passionate: if you are passionate about something it means you have a strong desire to
do something or a strong interest in something.
Example: Elite athletes are passionate about their sport and want to become the best.
 played at: to play a song at an event means to broadcast it over loudspeakers so

everyone can hear it.
Example: They always play the song “We Are the Champions” at basketball games.
 to pump up the crowd: to get the people excited about the game or event.
Example: The cheerleaders tried to pump up the crowd during the football game.
 relate to: to see yourself in something or to understand it in a personal way.

Example: She can relate to the lyrics of that song about love and loss.
 give up: to quit; to stop doing something.

Example: He decided to give up smoking after 10 years.

 quit: to stop doing something; to give up.
Example: She convinced her son not to quit the soccer team.
 lift me up or lift someone up: to make someone feel better.

Example: His brother is good at lifting others up when they are feeling down.
24. Describe an important holiday (or festival) that is celebrated in your country.
You should say:
when this celebration takes place
what people do during this celebration
what you especially like and dislike about this celebration
and explain why it is important.
ANSWER:
- Today, I am going to talk about an important holiday (or festival) that is celebrated in my
country called Lunar New Year. Besides the Western calendar’s New Year, the Vietnamese
people also celebrate Lunar New Year according to the lunar calendar.
- The Lunar New Year, or Tet usually takes place around the end of January or the beginning
of February, depending on when the lunar calendar ends. Tet provides the opportunity for
reunions for Vietnamese families, as people tend to return to their hometowns at this time of
the year.
- Like the Christmas tree in Western countries, in Vietnam, we buy a kumquat tree, an apricot
blossom tree or some branches to decorate our houses. People also buy new clothes and clean
their houses to welcome in the New Year. Some families make “Chung cake”, a traditional
cake for this special occasion. Chung cake is made of rice, mung beans and fat pork, wrapped
in a banana leaf in the shape of a square. It is then boiled overnight until it is cooked.
- During the Tet holiday, Vietnamese visit their relatives to wish them all a happy new year.
They also go to the pagodas frequently to wish for a better year to come for their families.
Adults give lucky money to children. I think this is the only time of year when people can

forget about all the worries of their daily lives, when they can relax, enjoy, indulge
themselves, and get ready for another new year.
VOCABULARY:
 Western calendar: also known as the Gregorian calendar, this calendar is used in
Western countries and the New Year begins with the first day of January.
Example: International companies usually follow the Western calendar, though their
country may also follow a different calendar.
 according to: as stated or indicated by; following; based on.

Example: According to the Center for Disease Control, all travelers should be up-to-
date with their vaccines.
 takes place around: to occur during a certain time period, around is used in this
instance to give you a general idea of when something happens, rather than a very
specific date.
Example: The festival takes place around the beginning of May each year, though we
won’t know the exact start date until March 15th.
 depending on: to be contingent on, something will not happen unless something else
happens first.
Example: Depending on the score you get on your exam, you may qualify for a
scholarship.
 reunion: a time when people gather together again after not having seen each other for
a while; you can have family reunions, class reunions, work reunions, etc.
Example: The graduating class of 1985 had a class reunion this past summer and it was
fantastic to see all my old classmates again.
 tend to: used to describe when you usually do something.

Example: I tend to visit my mom on Sundays.
 hometown: your hometown is the town where you spent most or all of your childhood;
it is often the town where your parents still live.
Example: This will be the first time she has returned to her hometown after living
abroad for five years.

 kumquat: a small fruit-bearing tree with small, round, orange fruit that is commonly
used in preservers and confections.
Example: My father brought home a kumquat tree for Tet.
 decorate: to put things up around the home to make it look nice, to include things like
flowers, artwork, lights, candles, and other types of decorations.
Example: My sister loves to decorate her room with posters of the One Direction boys.
 to welcome in the New Year: used to express the idea that you are excited for a new
year to begin, so you welcome it in or invite it in. In is used to express that it is as if you
were welcoming a friend into your home or into your life.
Example: People in New York City are welcoming in the New Year with the dropping
of the ball at Times Square.
 special occasion: a special event or happening.

Example: A wedding is a special occasion that many people enjoy celebrating.
 boil: the point when there are bubbles in the water that you are heating; water boils
when it reaches 100 degrees Celsius.
Example: “A watched pot never boils.” - This is a saying that means that something we
wait for with impatient attention seems to take forever.
 overnight: Lasting for, extending over, or remaining during a night, until the morning
time.
Example: She left the cat out overnight and luckily it didn’t get eaten by coyotes.
 to wish them: to want or desire something for someone else.

Example: I wish them luck on their exams.
 pagoda: a religious building of East Asia and Southeast Asia, especially a multistory
Buddhist tower with widely overhanging eaves separating each level, erected as a
memorial or shrine.
Example: Her father goes to the pagoda early in the morning.
 relax: to take it easy; to release tension and anxiety; to loosen up; to become less tense.
Example: She likes to take a bath to relax after a hard day at work.
 indulge: to allow yourself to do what you want, eat what you want, etc.

Example: They indulged themselves by sleeping late, eating whatever they wanted and
dancing until late at night.
25. Describe a film you watched at home or in a cinema.

You should say:
what film it was
what it was about
why you chose to watch that film
who you watched it with
and explain if you learned anything important from the film
ANSWER
As a frequent moviegoer, I watch a lot of films. One of the movies that I enjoyed the most
recently was The Martian.
The movie was based on a novel of the same title by Andy Weir. Just like many other sci-fi
films, it was about man travelling in space, however, this time, our main character was stuck
on Mars due to a dust storm which nearly killed him. All of the crewmates thought that he
was dead, so they went back to Earth without him. But fortunately he was still alive, thus two
and a half hours of the movie told the story of how he fought for his life in the brutal
environment of Mars, until NASA devised a plan to rescue him.
My best friend is a big fan of astronomy, so she had read [2] the novel before. That‟s why she
insisted on me going to see the movie with her. After watching the trailer and reading the
plot, I was hooked. It was maybe the best two and a half hours of my week so far.
After watching the movie, I was amazed at how ingenious and strong humans can be when it
comes to a life and death situation. Mark Watney, the hero of the movie, was a perfect
portrayal of a young, humorous, brilliant and skillful engineer cum botanist. Although the
hostile environment of Mars threatened his existence many times, he relentlessly refused to
quit. Instead, he overcame one problem at a time until he was successfully rescued. The
message that I learned from the film is never to give up, however hopeless things seem to be.
VOCABULARY:
 moviegoer: [noun] a person who goes to the cinema.

 sci-fi: [noun] science fiction; based on imagined scientific discoveries of the future,
such as space travel or life on other planets.
Example: Sci-fi movies have become more popular since space travel has become
possible.
 stuck on Mars: the man was unable to escape from the planet.
Example: we were stuck in traffic and so we arrived late for work.
 dust storm: [noun] a storm that carries clouds of dust in the wind over a wide area.
Example: a lot of plants die after a dust storm passes through an area.
 crewmates: [noun] all the people working on a ship or, in this case, a spacecraft.
 fought for his life: [verb phrase] he made a great effort to stay alive.
Example: The man was badly injured in the accident, but he fought for his life and he
recovered later in hospital.
 brutal: [adjective] if an environment is described as brutal this means that it is very

dangerous and it is difficult for a person to survive.
 devised: [verb] NASA invented something new to rescue the man.
Example: a new system has been devised to control traffic in the city.
 astronomy: [noun] the scientific study of the sun, moon, stars and planets.
 trailer: [noun] a series of short scenes from a film or programme, shown in advance to
advertise it.
Example: after watching an exciting trailer, I decided to go to see the film.
 plot: [noun] the events which form the story of a book, play or film.
Example: the book has a plot about a prisoner who escaped.
 hooked: [adjective] enjoying something so much that you want to see or do it.
 ingenious: [adjective] very clever at inventing new ideas.

Example: many ingenious researchers are working on ways to combat cancer.

 portrayal: [noun] the act of describing or showing something or somebody in a book,
play or film.
Example: the actor gave a fantastic portrayal of a clever detective in the film.
 botanist: [noun] a person who studies plants.
 hostile: [adjective] a hostile environment is unsafe for humans, because there are many
dangers.
Example: in the hostile environment of the desert, you must take a lot of water with you.
 threatened his existence: the many dangers and difficult conditions on Mars were a
danger to his life.
 relentlessly: [adverb] in a way that continues strongly, without giving up.

Example: the soldiers relentlessly pursued their enemies after the battle.
 hopeless: [adjective] without hope

Example: after searching for the lost plane for many days, the situation seemed
hopeless and it seemed that the rescuers would never find it.
26. Describe a (recent) time when you looked at the sky (either day or night)
You should say:
what you were doing when you looked at the sky
who you were with
what you saw
and explain how you felt when you looked at the sky.
ANSWER:
- Last week, my friends and I decided to go camping on the outskirts for the weekend.
- Living in a big city doesn’t offer me much of a chance to enjoy the sky at night because of
the pollution, the lights, and the skyscrapers. That’s the reason why I liked this short trip so
much because I could enjoy looking up at the clear sky, searching for stars and observing the
moon.

- Luckily for me, there was a full moon that night. We made a small campfire and sat around
the fire, grilled potatoes and marshmallows, happily chatting with each other.
- When the moon had risen high up in the sky, we all looked up, and started counting stars. I
had never seen so many stars in the sky as I did that night. They twinkled while the moon
shone brightly. At that moment, I felt at peace. My mind was blank; I wasn’t thinking of
anything else, all my sadness and disappointments disappeared. All I thought of was that I
was content in that moment.
VOCABULARY:
 outskirts: the part of town that is far away from the center.
Example: We lived on the outskirts of town for about 10 years and then finally moved
closer to the center last year.
 offer: in this context to offer you something means to make it available to you.
Example: Living in the city offers many exciting activities like going to the theater,
attending concerts and lots of different types of restaurants.
 pollution: harmful substances in the air or water.

Example: The air pollution in the city is getting worse every year.
 skyscrapers: tall buildings that can be used for offices or residential units.
Example: New York City has many tall skyscrapers.
 clear sky: a sky that is clear of any pollution or other things (like clouds) that make it
hard to see the stars and the moon.
Example: Tonight, when I looked up at the clear sky, I saw millions of stars.
 observing: watching, looking at, seeing.

Example: The scientist will be observing the monkeys this afternoon.

 full moon: The phase of the moon at which the moon, as viewed from Earth, appears to
be fully illuminated by the sun. The full phase marks the half-way point of a single
revolution of the moon around the earth.
Example: Did you see the full moon last night?
 campfire: a fire that is made while camping and around which you sit to cook food,
roast marshmallows and talk.
Example: My son is always in charge of making the campfire.
 grilled/to grill: a way of cooking something on a grill over a fire.

Example: We grilled some hamburgers and hot dogs last night for dinner.
 marshmallow: A light, spongy, very sweet confection made of corn syrup, gelatin,
sugar, and often vanilla.
Example: Kids love to roast marshmallows while camping.
 chatting: talking.
Example: They have been chatting for over two hours already.
 to twinkle: to shine and sparkle, flicker, glimmer - what stars do. Stars twinkle.
Example: The stars twinkled in the clear night sky.
 to feel at peace: to be peaceful or feel peaceful, without any worries or concerns.

Example: He felt at peace when he was meditating.
 mind was blank: to have nothing in your mind, to not be thinking about anything at all.
Example: After staying up all night studying, my mind was blank during class.
 disappointment: frustration, something that you feel disappointed or dissatisfied about.

Example: His grandmother has suffered many disappointments throughout her lifetime,
but now she is living the good life.
27. Describe a recent event (or something you did) that made you happy.
You should say:
what you did
where you were
who you were with
and explain why it made you happy.
ANSWER:
- Today, I am going to share with you a recent event that made me happy. A month ago, my
friend and I attended a hip-hop and contemporary dance performance sponsored by the
Japan Foundation Center, Goethe Institute, and L’Espace Center called “Europe Meets Asia”.
- The tickets were free so we did not see any reason for not going; we both like dancing a lot.
The performance was given by artists from Japan and Israel. It was a combination of hip-hop
and contemporary dance.
- With their talents, they created such an amazing performance. We were surprised to see how
flexible they were while performing. The dance also delivered a message which could be
interpreted differently by different people. To me, it was about young people in the modern
world, bored with the daily routine of life and trying to escape from this boredom in order to
do something spectacular or at least pursue their passions.
- After a 40-hour workweek, this event was like a fresh breeze in my life. It was a new
experience that I had rarely had before, because in Hanoi, we don‟t get to see art
performances by foreign artists that often.
VOCABULARY
- hip-hop: a style of music usually based on rap and often including elements of other styles
such as funk or rhythm and blues.

Example: My best friend is an awesome hip-hop artist who performs all around the world.
- contemporary: current, modern, nowadays.

Example: As an art collector, he focuses on contemporary artists from Asia and Europe.
- sponsored by: an individual or organization that puts something on, that supports an event
financially.
Example: This evening‟s event was sponsored by Apple, Microsoft and Dell computers.
- given by: in this context the artists give a performance or perform and so we say it was given
by them.
Example: The keynote presentation was given by Mark Zuckerberg, speaking Chinese.
- combination of: when two or more things are combined to create something new.
Example: The combination of science and art classes helps students learn in a creative way.
- talent: a special skill that one has.

Example: He has a talent for making movies and will likely become a director some day.
- flexible: to be able to bend your body in all sorts of ways.

Example: Ballet dancers and yoga instructors are very flexible.
- interpret: to understand something in a certain way.

Example: The two people interpreted the performance in two completely different ways.

- daily routine: that which you do every day, like get up, eat breakfast, go to work, come
home, clean up, watch TV, go to bed.
Example: His daily routine starts at 5 a.m. and ends at 10 p.m.
- spectacular: amazing, fantastic, super special.

Example: His new book is spectacular. Have you read it yet?
- pursue their passions: to follow your interests and desires.

Example: He wants to pursue his passion for chemistry by getting a PhD.
- fresh breeze: used in this context to describe something that is new and refreshing.
Example: Spending a day out in the woods was like a fresh breeze, compared to my usual
boring daily routine.
- rarely: not very often.

Example: I rarely go downtown due to the traffic.
28. Describe a difficult decision that you made.

You should say:
what decision it was
what difficulties you faced
how you made the decision
and explain why it was a difficult decision.
ANSWER:

It was when I prepared the application form for the university entrance exam that I had to
make an important but difficult decision. At that time, I was at a crossroads, where I had to
decide which university to apply for. Actually, my interest was in economics, which was
taught in two separate universities, one of which specialized in international trade while the
other focused more on the national economy.
Fortunately, my sister, who graduated from an economics college, gave me some sound
advice. Having weighed up the pros and cons of each school, she encouraged me to choose the
university specializing in international trade. Finally, I applied for this school after thinking
carefully about all the options.
At present, I feel so satisfied with the learning environment of this university that I am
always thankful for my decision as well as my sister’s advice. Without her guidance, I
probably wouldn’t be as content with my university life as I am.
VOCABULARY
 at a crossroads: [expression] at an important point in someone’s life or development.
Example: His life was at a crossroads – whether to join the army or to continue
studying at university.
 sound advice: [adjective and noun combination] sensible and reliable advice.
Example: My parents gave me sound advice about my choice of career.
 weighed up the pros and cons: [expression] considered carefully the advantages and
disadvantages of something.
Example: Having weighed up the pros and cons, I decided that it would be more
useful for me to learn English rather than French.
 learning environment: [noun phrase] the conditions that affect the behaviour and
development of people who are learning a subject.
Example: The school had the latest technology, the buildings were modern and the
teachers were very helpful – it was the perfect learning environment.
29. Describe a polluted place.
You should say:
• What the place is
• What type of pollution it is/ are
• Cause and effect of pollution

and explain how can this pollution be controlled.
ANSWER:
It is regrettable that Hanoi, where I’m living, is negatively affected by pollution and the major
environmental problems it is facing are water pollution, air pollution and noise pollution.
There are various reasons why this city is badly polluted. Firstly, due to modernization,
more and more vehicles such as cars and motorbikes are used. This leads to an increase in
exhaust emissions which contaminate the atmosphere, not to mention the rising level of noise
pollution. Secondly, factories and industrial zones in the city have discharged a huge amount
of untreated waste into rivers, causing death to many fish and other aquatic animals.
In fact, pollution makes people here less healthy, and some even suffer from life-threatening
diseases such as lung cancer, skin cancer, and so on. Therefore, the government must deal with
this problem right away. Cutting down on vehicle use is the best way to reduce air pollution
and noise pollution. We can do this by encouraging people to use public transportation.
Besides, those who litter should pay a heavy fine. Finally, I think the best solution is to raise
awareness and educate people to protect the environment.
VOCABULARY
 regrettable: [adjective] something that you are sorry about and wish that it had not
happened.
Example: It is regrettable that only a minority of people are concerned about the
environment.
 exhaust emissions: [noun phrase] waste gases that come out of a car or other vehicle.
Example: The exhaust emissions from big trucks cause serious air pollution in my city.
 contaminate: [verb] make a place or thing dirty, by adding a substance that is

dangerous or polluting.
Example: Every day, more and more vehicles enter the city centre and contaminate the
atmosphere with their exhaust emissions.
 discharge: [verb] when somebody discharges a gas or liquid, they release it and it goes
into the water or the air.
Example: The factory was fined for discharging chemicals into the river.
 aquatic: [adjective] living in water

Example: Rivers which are clean have a lot of aquatic life, such as fish and frogs.

 life-threatening: [adjective] likely to kill someone.
Example: Aid workers in poor countries often have to deal with difficult, life-
threatening situations.
 cutting down on: [phrasal verb] reducing the size, amount or number of something.
Example: You will improve your health by cutting down on cigarettes.
 awareness: [noun] knowing that something exists and is important.

Example: In schools, campaigns about awareness of road safety are essential for young
children.
30. Describe a person you know who dresses well

You should say:
who this person is
what kind of clothes this person likes to wear (or, wears)
and explain why you think this person dresses well.
31. Describe a person you know who speaks a second (or foreign) language well.
You should say:
who this person is
what language this person speaks
how often they speak it
and explain why you say they speak it "well".
32. Describe a person (you know) who travels a lot by plane.
You should say:
who this person is

where this person travels to
and explain why they (= he or she) choose to travel by plane
ANSWER 30, 31, 32

Today, I am going to share with you a person I know/ who dresses well/speaks a second
(foreign) language well/ travels a lot by plane/. That person is my friend/boss/.....
As a typical saleswoman for a multinational company, my friend/my boss has to meet many
people from all over the world. That’s why she speaks English as fluently as Vietnamese. In
addition, she also dresses well because appearance is very important in the sales market.
She is tall and thin, thus she always chooses to wear blouses with pencil skirts or midi
dresses because such smart clothes not only complement her figure, but also give her a
formal look suitable for business meetings. Every time she appears in public, she draws
everyone‟s attention; people look at her with admiration. I think that’s one of the reasons
why she is such an effective salesperson.
Due to the characteristics of her job, she has to travel to Ho Chi Minh City/uses English quite
often because our company has a large customer base in the south/ internationally. As a result,
travelling by plane is the only choice. There are months when she has to go there once a week
to prepare for a client meeting or provide training to new employees/ Being competent in
English helps her a lot in closing the deal with international clients, since nowadays English is
considered to be the most common language in the business world. She speaks English so well
that one of our clients complimented her on sounding exactly like a native speaker.
VOCABULARY
 typical: [adjective] having all the usual qualities or features that we expect. A woman
whose job is to sell products will usually have to meet a lot of people, and sometimes
these may be international customers. My friend/my boss is no different – she is a
typical saleswoman.
Example: A typical street in the centre of London has crowds of shoppers, and the
roads are full of cars, taxis and buses.

 dresses well: [verb+adverb] she wears a particular style or type of clothes and these
give her a good appearance.
Example: In England, people dress formally when they go for a job interview.
 appearance: [noun] the way that somebody looks. If you are selling products, your
appearance must be tidy and professional.
Example: Photographers always follow famous people, so those people pay a lot of
attention to their appearance – they want to look good !
 skirt: [noun] a piece of clothing for a girl or woman which goes from the waist and
covers part of the legs.
 pencil skirts: [adjective+noun] a skirt which is narrow and straight.

Example: Pencil skirts are often worn by professional women, such as secretaries or
executives.
 midi dresses: [noun] dresses which cover the legs to below the knees.
 smart: [adjective] looking clean, new and attractive.

Example: I have to be smart for work.
 complement: [verb] to add something in a way that makes it look more attractive or
improves it.
Example: His smart tie complemented his formal suit.
 figure: [noun] the shape of the body.

 look: [noun] this is another word for appearance – the way that somebody looks.
Example: My friend has a very professional look when she is at work.
 draw attention: [verb+noun] my boss/my friend attracts the interest of everyone.

Example: In the world of men’s fashion, David Beckham draws the attention of the
world media.
 customer base: [noun combination] all the people who buy or use a particular product
or service.
Example: We need to appeal to a wider customer base.
 closing the deal: [verb+noun] making an agreement with a customer or supplier.

Example: As a professional saleswoman, my friend usually closes the deal and makes a
sale to her clients.
 compliment: [verb] to say something which expresses praise or admiration for a person.
Example: My boss complimented me on the work which I completed last week.
33. Describe the member of your family who you spend the most time with.
You should say:
who it is
when you are usually together
what you do together
and explain why you spend the most time with this member of your family
ANSWER:
Today, I am going to share with you a family member who I spend most of my time with. That
is my /father/mother/older sister/brother/cousin…
My father/mother/older sister/brother/cousin… is a very considerate and thoughtful person.
When I was small, he/she usually took good care of me; taught me good lessons and never let
me out of his/her sight. Even now, whenever I have a bad day, he/she has always been there
for me, and helps me get through it.
As I have got older, my father/mother/older sister/brother/cousin… has become my best friend.
I can share my interests, my career plans or even things about my love life with them – in fact,

anything at all. Especially when I am down, he/she gives me the encouragement that I need to
move on. To me, he/she is a role model whom I always look up to/admire/and follow in
his/her footsteps.
He/she constantly reminds me that I have to try my best in everything I choose to pursue so
that I can achieve my goal in this life. Thanks to his/her advice, I have made significant
progress in my personal life in general.
Although, of course, I love all my family, because he/she is so special to me, I think that we
will always keep in touch, just as we do now almost every day.
VOCABULARY
 considerate: [adjective] always thinking of the wishes and feelings of other people.
Example: My mother is very considerate when guests come to visit our house and she
always offers some food or something to drink.
 thoughtful: [adjective] showing that you think about other people and care about them.
Example: A good teacher should be kind and thoughtful.
 take care of: [verb] to provide the things which you need for your protection and health.
Example: A lot of patience is necessary when you take care of very young or very old
people.
 let me out of his sight: [expression] he/she always kept me where they could see me –
they protected me all the time.
Example: She never lets her daughter out of her sight.
 be there for: [expression] to be available if somebody wants to talk to you or needs
your help.
Example: If I was in trouble, my parents were always there for me.
 get through: [expression] to successfully deal with a problem or overcome a difficulty.
Example: I would find it hard to get through the day if I had no friends to talk to.
 down: [adjective] sad, unhappy.
 move on: [verb] to make progress by starting something new.
Example: After I pass the exam, I want to move on to the next step in my career.

 role model: [noun] a person that you admire and try to copy.
Example: Parents are a child’s most important role models.
 follow in the footsteps of: to do the same job or to have the same style of life.
Example: She works as a journalist, following in her father’s footsteps.
 try my best: [expression] to do as much as possible to achieve something.
Example: I will try my best to achieve my goal.
 Thanks to: [expression] As a result of/with the help of their advice, I made progress in
my studies and my career.
 keep in touch: [expression] to maintain contact with somebody so that I know what is
happening.
34. Describe a street that you like to visit

You should say:
where is it
how often you go there
what you usually do there
and explain why you like to go there
ANSWER
As a full time employee/student, I don’t have much free time. As a result, whenever I have a
day off, I visit my favorite street in the city. The name of the street is Hoang Dieu. It is located
near Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and it is the place where I would always choose to go.
I usually go there in the morning, park my moped in the nearby parking lot and walk along the
street by myself. Although I am quite a sociable person, I like my own space from time to
time. Living in a metropolitan area with a fast-paced life doesn’t allow me to have time for
myself that often. This is probably the only time I can escape from my normal routine,
completely free and just breathe, without worrying about my job/my studies.
This street is perfect for my purpose because there are only government offices around here,
hence it is always quiet. Moreover, both side of the streets are planted with many big trees,

their shade covers the whole street. On a sunny day, you can see the sun‟s rays shining
through the leaves.
Every time I come here I feel fresh and less stressed, especially after my busy days at work/
preparing for exams. At the end of the day, I can refresh my mind and be ready for a new day.
VOCABULARY
 moped: [noun] a motorcycle with a small engine and also pedals.
Example: I sometimes use the engine on my moped, but more often I use the pedals, like a
bicycle.
 sociable: [adjective] a sociable person is someone who enjoys spending time with other
people.
Example: she’s a sociable child who will talk to anyone.
 my own space: my freedom and time to think and do what I want.
Example: he was tired of being with other people, so he went to his room to get some
space.
 metropolitan: [adjective] connected with a large city.
Example: my brother lives in the New York metropolitan area.
 fast-paced: [adjective] very busy
Example: my university course is very fast-paced, so it is difficult to complete all my
assignments on time.
 shade: [noun] an area that is dark and cool under or behind something [like a tree],
where the light of the sun does not reach it.
Example: We sat down in the shade of the wall.
 rays: [noun] narrow lines of light.
Example: The rays of the sun entered my window when the sun rose early in the
morning.
 refresh: [verb] to refresh somebody is to make them less tired or less hot.
Example: A cool shower refreshed me after running in the park.

35. Describe an article you read in a magazine or on the internet about healthy living.
You should say:
what the article was about
where you read it (which magazine or website)
and explain what you learned/thought from the article
ANSWER:
- Recently I came across an interesting article on the internet about the benefits of drinking
warm water with lemon in the morning. The website name is bodyandsoul.com.au.
- You would normally think that lemon water is just one kind of drink that helps keep your
body hydrated, however, it brings you many other benefits that you can‟t imagine.
- The article says that if you build up a habit of kicking off your day with a glass of warm
water with the juice of half a lemon, you will do your body and mind a great favor.
- Firstly, lemon juice is a great source of Vitamin C, thus it helps boost your immune system
in fighting off colds and flu. Moreover, lemons are great for combating skin ageing because
they are rich in antioxidant properties. Lemon also helps clean our urinary tract and detoxify
our livers. The list of benefits doesn‟t end there. The high level of potassium in lemons can
help brain and nerve functioning and control blood pressure. Lemon water can also ward off
stress and depression, which have been linked to low levels of potassium. As a result, the
article suggests if you continue drinking warm water with lemon first thing in the morning
for at least 21 consecutive days, you will notice the difference in your skin and general health
immediately.
VOCABULARY
 hydrated: [adjective] capable of absorbing or taking in water.
Example: In hot weather, keep your body hydrated by drinking lots of water.
 build up: [phrasal verb] to develop.

Example: In business, it is important to build up a good relationship with customers.
 kicking off your day: [verb phrase] starting your day [like starting a football match by
kicking the ball]
Example: Kick off your day with a good breakfast, before you go to school.
 boost your immune system: [verb phrase] to make your body stronger to help it fight
against illness.
Example: A healthy diet of fruit and vegetables, combined with exercise and sleep, will
boost your immune system by making your body strong.
 fight off: [phrasal verb] to resist – in this case, illness.
Example: The soldiers fought off the enemy attack.
 ageing: [noun] the process of becoming old.
Example: There are some skin care products which claim to stop the ageing process.
 antioxidant: [adjective] removing harmful substances from the body.
Example: Vitamin C has antioxidant properties, so it is good to have it in your diet to
prevent illness.
 urinary tract: [noun] the part of the body through which waste liquid passes.
Example: If you have pain when you go to the toilet, it may be a symptom of an infection
of your urinary tract.
 detoxify: [verb] to remove harmful or poisonous substances, in this case from your
liver.
Example: As harmful substances can build up during the night, you can clean your liver
and detoxify it by drinking lemon water in the morning.
 ward off: [phrasal verb] to protect or defend yourself against illness or danger.
Example: She put up her hands to ward off her attacker.
36. Describe a person (you know), much older than you, who you admire.
You should say:

who this person is
how this person has influenced you
and explain why you admire this person.
ANSWER:
I would like to describe one of my teachers who taught me at high school. She had a great
influence on me and was a role model whom I look up to.
Her name is Yen and she taught me Math for 3 years of high school. She was in her 50s, and
so she had a lot of teaching experience. Actually, we met each other almost everyday as she
was also my form teacher. She cared about us as if we had been her sons and daughters. For
example, she always brought some kinds of medicines so that whenever her students got a
cold, coughed or something like that, she would give them the medicines immediately.
Above all, I was most influenced by the way she taught us in class. Her thoroughness in
teaching inspired me to study Math, even though I had not been interested in the subject
before. Thanks to her effective teaching method, I was able to pass the university entrance
exam with a high Math grade. Besides, I was also influenced by her lifestyle, which was so
simple and worthy of respect that I really wanted to copy her. As she is a warm-hearted
person, she always gave us advice about any problems we faced. At times, I felt that she was
like my friend who I could share everything with.
Although we have now all graduated from high school, my friends and I often visit her at the
weekends to tell her about our daily life at university.
VOCABULARY
- role model: [noun phrase] a person that you admire and try to copy.
Example: Parents are usually the most important role models for a child.\
- in her 50s: [expression] between the ages of 50 and 59.
Example: My mother retired from her job as a teacher when she was in her 50s.
- cared about: [phrasal verb] felt that we were important and worth worrying about.
Example: Everybody had a good opinion of the hospital – the doctors and nurses really
cared about the health of the patients.

- thoroughness: [noun] the quality of doing things very carefully and with great attention
to detail.
Example: The report was perfectly organised and included every important detail, and I had
to admire his thoroughness.
- lifestyle: [noun] the way in which a person or group of people live and work.
Example: When I moved to the countryside from Hanoi, I had to change my lifestyle
completely.
- warm-hearted: [adjective] kind and generous
Example: He often gave money and chatted in the street to poor people that he knew – he
was a very warm-hearted person.
37. Describe a television program that you like to watch.
You should say:
what program it is
what the program is about
how often you watch it
and explain why you like watching this program.
ANSWER:
A TV program that I found really funny was an American show called “How I met your
mother” which was broadcast every Sunday last summer.
It was a sitcom with 9 series, each of which included about 24 episodes. I watched all of the
episodes and found them absolutely hilarious. The series followed the main character, Ted,
who recounted to his son and daughter the time when he met and got married to their mother.
The special thing was this - all the events Ted had experienced with his best friends before
meeting his wife were illustrated in a highly amusing way. For example, in one episode, Ted
described his dates with a girlfriend whose name he had forgotten, so Ted and the other
characters had to refer to her as “Blah-blah” all the time.
Because of the characters’ eccentric humor and natural acting, this show made me laugh a lot.
So, at present, whenever I feel stressed, I replay this series so that I can just put my feet up
and have a good laugh.
VOCABULARY

- sitcom: [noun] a regular TV program that shows the same characters in different funny
situations.
Example: In a good sitcom, all the characters who appear regularly make us laugh.
- episodes: [noun] parts of a story on TV or the radio which is broadcast in several parts.
Example: The sitcom finally ended after 200 episodes.
- absolutely hilarious: [adverb+adjective] extremely funny.
Example: At the party, he told me an absolutely hilarious story, and I couldn’t stop
laughing.
- recounted: [verb] told someone about something that you experienced.
Example: My father sometimes recounted to me stories of his time as a student.
- dates: [noun] aromantic meetings with a boy or girl.
Example: Although they had several dates, they decided to remain just good friends.
- eccentric: [adjective] considered by other people to be strange or unusual.
Example: A person who wears a suit to go to the beach would certainly be considered as
eccentric.
- put my feet up: [expression] relax and do nothing
Example: After a hard day at work, I like to come home and put my feet up for an hour or
two.
38. Describe a sport that you have learned.
You should say:
what sport it is
when you learned it
what you learned to do
and explain how you feel about this sport.

ANSWER:
Basketball is the sport which I have been interested in for a long time. Therefore, I have taken
up this sport recently.
Basketball is played by two teams of five members on a rectangular court, where the players of
each team try to shoot the ball through the rival’s hoop. As far as I know, basketball is one of
the most popular sports in the world. This is because of basketball’s great benefits to our
health, such as muscular development, height growth, and so on. Of course, it’s also fast-
moving and exciting.
Considering its huge advantages, I decided to take up this sport. Actually, I have been
learning it for three months at a sport center. Here, I am taking the beginner course which
provides me with basic skills to play basketball such as dribbling, jumping and shooting. Also,
I have many opportunities to practise these skills with experienced basketball players, which
helps to improve my game a lot.
As a final point, I would emphasize that in the near future, I hope that I will be able to play
basketball skillfully to improve my physical condition and really enjoy the sport to the full.
VOCABULARY
- take up: [phrasal verb] learn or start to do something.
Example: I decided to take up a new hobby – jogging.
- rival: [noun] a person, team or company which competes with another in sport or
business.
Example: Nike and Adidas are rivals in the sportswear business.
- hoop: [noun] the ring through which players throw the ball in basketball to score points.
Example: The best basketball players consistently shoot the ball through the hoop.
- muscular development: [expression] the process by which your muscles become
stronger.
Example: He uses the equipment at the gym every day in order to increase his muscular
development.
- dribbling: [gerund] a way of moving the ball with several short bounces on the
basketball court.

Example: I practice running and bouncing the ball in order to improve my dribbling for
basketball.
- to the full: [adverb] to the greatest possible degree.
Example: Staying fit and healthy helps us to enjoy life to the full.
39. Describe a short holiday (vacation) that was special for you.
You should say:
where you went
who you spent time with
what you did
and explain why it was special for you.
ANSWER:
I would like to talk about my recent holiday in Thailand with my best friend last summer,
which was really memorable for us. Although this trip only lasted for 4 days, it involved a lot
of planning ahead.
To be honest, travelling to Thailand can be quite costly and, due to financial constraints, we
started saving up for our holiday. We booked the plane tickets a month ahead to get a couple
of cheaper ones. Because we definitely did not want to use a travel agent or book a package
tour, we had to search for a lot of information online to organize our own journey.
Throughout the trip, there were a lot of interesting things that we had a chance to experience
together. We visited some well-known tourist attractions in Thailand, which allowed us to
discover a new culture and traditional customs there. What we really enjoyed was Thai
cuisine. Despite the fact that we did not like food that is too spicy, the variety of Thai street
dishes tempted us to try them. We also stopped by open markets at night to buy clothing and
souvenirs for our families back home.
I think travelling is really the best way to practice relaxation. It dawned on me that we had
been very caught up in study during the year, and so this trip helped us to get away from it
all, leave our worries behind and enjoy ourselves.

VOCABULARY
- memorable: [adjective] something special, good or unusual that we will remember for
a long time.
Example: My first visit to New York was the most memorable trip of my life.
- costly: [adjective] expensive

Example: A new car would be too costly for me, so I decided to look for a used car.
- financial constraints: [noun] a lack of money that restricts your freedom to buy or do
something.
Example: The economic crisis will impose serious financial constraints on the spending
on schools this year.
- save up: [phrasal verb] to keep money, not spend it, to buy a particular thing.
Example: I’m saving up for a new TV.
- book: [verb] to buy or reserve something in advance.

Example: She has booked her IELTS exam in October.
- travel agent: [noun] a person or business that makes holiday or travel arrangements for
people, like booking a flight or hotel room.
Example: A travel agent can often give good advice when you explain the type of holiday
that you want.
- package tour: [noun] a holiday in which everything is organized by the travel company
at a fixed price and includes flights, hotels and any extras, such as hiring a car.
Example: Package tours are popular with people who don’t have much time to organize
their holiday themselves.
- cuisine: [noun] a style of cooking.

Example: Tourists who visit Italy usually enjoy the Italian cuisine.
- spicy: [adjective] having a hot, strong taste because spices have been used to make it.
Example: I like Indian cuisine, but I prefer the dishes that are not too spicy.
- tempt: [verb] attract somebody to have or to do something.

Example: The delicious smell of Thai meals tempted him to try some dishes.
- back home: [expression] in the town or country that you came from.
Example: She often thinks of her friends back home in Vietnam.

- dawn on: [phrasal verb] if something dawns on you, you realize it for the first time.
Example: It dawned on me that I had not replied to his e-mail.
- caught up: [phrasal verb] to become involved in something.

Example: We were very caught up in our studies last year, often studying until late at
night.
- get away from it all: [expression] to have a holiday in a place where you can relax.
Example: I like to go camping in the countryside, to get away from it all and enjoy being
alone.
- worries: [noun] things that cause you to worry or to be stressed.

Example: After he had passed the exam, all his worries disappeared.
40. Describe a wedding that you have attended.
You should say:
whose wedding it was
who was there
what happened
and explain how you felt.
ANSWER (Bài này mình viết hơi dài. Các bạn có thể lấy ý để chỉnh sửa dùng cho bài của
chính các bạn)
Today, I’m gonna share with you a wedding of my friend that I attended. Last month, I
received a wedding invitation from my old friend from primary school. The wedding was held
at the beginning of April. We have been close to each other for over 15 years, therefore, I
definitely wanted to attend at all costs, due to the fact that we hadn’t had a chance to get
together for ages.
Her wedding ceremony took place at The Sum Villa, located near West Lake. It was decorated
impressively with a lot of lights, candles and flowers around the room. There were three
glamorous wedding photo albums, showing tables right at the centre of the official gate. The
principal colours were likely to be white and violet, so all the guests were requested to wear

clothes with one or both of these colours. Personally, I wore a white dress with small
accessories.
It was meant to be a casual wedding, which I had never attended before. It turned out to be
refreshingly informal. One of the best moments that really touched me was when the
bridegroom sang a song for the bride and all the guests sang along with him. Also, he made a
photo clip by himself marking their 4-year romance, to show to everyone in the room. It was
no surprise that everyone clapped their hands and cheered them. Of course, I was no exception.
It was also a good chance to catch up with my old friends and we all had a great time. We
definitely made the most of the occasion and took a lot of pictures with the bride and the
bridegroom. I gave my friend a gift to celebrate her wedding day. I had given much thought to
my wedding present when I was choosing it, and I wished her lots of happiness for the future.
VOCABULARY
hold: [verb] have a meeting/conversation/party/wedding/event.
Example: The next Olympic Games will be held in Brazil.
close to: [expression] knowing someone well and liking them very much.
Example: She has always been close to her grandparents and often visits them.
at all costs: [expression] whatever is needed to achieve something.

Example: I knew that, at all costs, I had to catch the last train home.
for ages: [expression] for a long time.

Example: I waited for ages to speak to the doctor.
decorate: [verb] make something more attractive.

Example: Her living room is always decorated with flowers.
glamorous: [adjective] especially attractive and exciting.

Example: When my sister was young, she wanted to have a glamorous job, like a model or a
film actress.
albums: [noun] a book in which you keep photographs.

Example: All of my parent’s photographs are still in the family photo albums in my drawer.
accessories: [noun] things like belts or bags, which you carry to match your clothes.
Example: The shop sells only fashion accessories, and my friend buys all her bracelets there.

bridegroom: [noun] a man on his wedding day.
Example: The bridegroom was very nervous during the wedding ceremony.
bride: [noun] a woman on her wedding day.

Example: The bride wore a very beautiful white dress.
romance: [noun] a relationship between two people who are in love.

Example: Romeo and Juliet is a play about the romance of two young lovers.
clapped their hands: [expression] hit their open hands together, to show that they liked or
enjoyed something.
Example: At the end of the fantastic show, all the audience clapped their hands.
cheer: [verb] to shout loudly, to show support or to encourage someone.

Example: The crowd cheered when Barcelona scored the winning goal.
41. Describe a useful app or computer program for a smart phone, computer or tablet
that you have used.
You should say:
what the app is
how long/how often you have used it (or, been using it)
what you use it for
and explain why you think it is useful.
ANSWER
Well, developments in technology have been providing a lot of smart applications for users,
which allows them to access entertainment and also to work more effectively. One of those
apps that youngsters have been using more and more in their tablets and mobile phones is
definitely Camera 360. And I am no exception. This application is all about taking pictures
and editing photos.

I have been a big fan of this application since I started using my Iphone 5 years ago. Like
many other apps, the designer has kept working on it to incorporate more impressive effects
so that it can compete with any other photo application.
My hobby is taking photos with my friends no matter what mood I’m in, so I tend to use this
particular app as my favourite tool to make changes to the pictures to make them look more
lively and interesting. This is where Camera 360 comes in handy.
What I really appreciate is that Camera 360 is full of fun features bringing many options with
special filters, effects, themes and frames. I love how easily it can help my photos appear more
professional than my original ones, although I’m not really a photoshop expert. Thanks to
this app, I am likely to be taking pictures more frequently now that I feel extremely confident
about posting them on social networking sites.
VOCABULARY
edit: [verb] make changes to text, data or images on a screen.
Example: Editing photos can make them appear much more professional by removing
unwanted parts of the image.
fan: [noun] a person who admires or enjoys watching or listening to someone/something.

Example: My son is a big football fan of Barcelona, and he watches all their games on TV.
work on: [phrasal verb] try hard to improve something, or how something functions.
Example: She works on her yoga skills by practising the exercises every day.
incorporate: [verb] include something, so that it then forms part of something.

Example: Many of your ideas have been incorporated into the project.
impressive: [adjective] people or things that make you feel admiration, for some good quality
that they have.
Example: The examiners agreed that she was very impressive during the speaking test.
compete with: [phrasal verb] try to be better or more successful than someone who is trying to
do the same thing as you.
Example: In the race, I had to compete with 5 other athletes to win the gold medal.

mood: [noun] the way that you are feeling at a particular time.
Example: I’m not really in the mood to go to the party tonight.
come in handy: [expression] be useful.
Example: Don’t throw your revision notes away – they may come in handy for next year’s
course.
fun features: [noun] entertaining characteristics or things about a particular object.

Example: My latest iphone comes with lots of fun features which keep me amused for hours.
post: [verb] put information or pictures on a website.

Example: Her brother has just posted some photos on their holiday on Facebook.
42. Describe a goal that you would like to achieve.

You should say:
what the goal is
how easy or difficult you think it will be to reach this goal
how you plan to achieve this goal
and explain why this is one of your goals.
ANSWER
One of my goals in the near future is to improve my proficiency in Japanese.
Actually, I have been studying Japanese for two months; therefore, I can just hold some
simple conversations about daily life. There are various reasons why I want to study this
language. Firstly, I am keen on Japanese culture, which is so incredibly unique and diverse.
By learning Japanese, I can know more about traditions there. Secondly, I have always
longed to work for a Japanese company. Since people in Japan are organized and hard-
working, collaborating with them gives me a good chance to improve myself. That’s why I
really want to master this language.

To achieve this goal, I am taking a Japanese course with a native teacher who gives me the
best methods to study Japanese effectively. Besides, I am trying to practice speaking
Japanese with my friends and watch as many Japanese films as possible, so that my level of
Japanese can be improved considerably. I hope that soon I will have a good command of
Japanese and I am sure that I will remain motivated to achieve my goal.
VOCABULARY
hold conversations: [expression] have conversations
Example: It is impossible to hold conversations in that place – it is too noisy !
keen on: [adjective] very interested in an idea or activity

Example: My parents are very keen on visiting my uncle in the US.
diverse: [adjective] very different and varied.

Example: New York is a big city with people from diverse cultures.
longed to: [phrasal verb] wanted to do something very much.

Example: It is just a dream, but I have always longed to be a famous musician.
master: [verb] learn or understand something completely.

Example: In many jobs we have to master new techniques, such as computer skills.
have a command of: [expression] have an ability to do or use something – especially a

language.
Example: You must have a good command of English in order to pass the IELTS exam.
43. Describe an activity you do for your health or fitness.
You should say:
what you do
how often you do it
where you do it
and explain how you think this activity helps you stay healthy or fit.
ANSWER

Staying in good shape is everyone’s concern and I am no exception. To be honest, I have
been so caught up in my study since I entered university that I have a problem in organizing
my daily routine. However, I have been participating in a yoga class for about 2 years,
which takes me only 1 hour a day, to try to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Unlike dancing or running, yoga definitely involves stretching actions. You might look at
yoga and think that it is light and easy but it is more demanding than it appears. Yoga allows
me to work on all the parts of my body. It can burn a lot of calories in just one hour of
training. Also, it enhances my flexibility and suppleness in every single movement.
What I enjoy the most about yoga is meditation. It is all about regulating your breathing and
helping you take things off your mind easily. Another thing is that doing yoga is supposed to
be good for curing headaches and digestion-related problems, so it benefits not only physical
well-being but also mental health.
By maintaining a schedule of taking part in the yoga class on a daily basis, I feel extremely
relaxed and full of energy after the class. It helps me to keep fit and refresh my mind after a
long stressful day. And of course, I don’t see myself stopping practicing this activity any time
soon.
VOCABULARY
in good shape: [expression] the good physical condition of someone.
Example: For a man of his age, he is in good shape.
caught up: [phrasal verb] completely involved in something.

Example: He was so caught up in the TV program, that he forgot to do his homework.
stretching actions: [noun] actions which make your muscles stronger by exercises in which
you extend your arms and legs.
Example: When I get up in the morning, I do some stretching actions to exercise the muscles
in my arms.
demanding: [adjective] needing a lot of effort.

Example: The work of a farmer is physically very demanding.
work on: [phrasal verb] try hard to improve something, or how something functions.
Example: She works on her yoga skills by practising the exercises every day.
burn a lot of calories: [expression] use up a lot of energy [that comes from the food we eat].
Example: One reason why people do exercise is to burn a lot of calories and lose weight.

flexibility: [noun] the ability to move and bend your body easily.
Example: Regular exercise helps older people to maintain their flexibility, especially by
stretching their muscles.
suppleness: [noun] the ability to move and bend your body into different positions – it is a
synonym for flexibility.
Example: Different yoga movements develop suppleness in different muscles.
meditation: [noun] thinking deeply in silence, to make you feel calm.

Example: To help you to relax, try meditation after a stressful day at work.
regulating your breathing: [expression] controlling the way in which you breathe in and out.
Example: An important part of learning how to swim is regulating your breathing.
take things off your mind: [expression] forget things which are causing you anxiety or stress.
Example: After an exam, I usually have a short holiday, to take things off my mind and enjoy
myself.
cure: [verb] make an illness go away.

Example: The website advertises a new drug for curing AIDS.
digestion: [noun] the process of changing the food you eat into substances that the body can
use.
Example: Unlike cows or horses, the digestion of grass is impossible for humans.
well-being: [noun] general health and happiness.

Example: The company tries to ensure the well-being of its employees by providing good
working conditions.
schedule: [noun] a plan that lists all the things that you have to do and when you must do
them.
Example: For the next few days, I have a busy schedule, which includes my yoga class each
morning.
I don’t see myself stopping: [expression] I don’t think that I will stop.
Example: I don’t see myself stopping working in the next 10 years because I have to support
my family.
any time soon: [expression] in the near future, soon.

Example: I should receive the exam results any time soon – perhaps tomorrow.
44. Describe a big company that you would like to work in.
You should say:
the name of this company
what this company does
where this company is
and explain why you would like to work in this company.
ANSWER
Today, I would like to talk about a big company that I would like to work in. Last year, I had a
chance to do an internship in Vincom for 3 months, and it is my dream workplace where I
want to apply for a job when I graduate.
The Vingroup, as you know, is one of the biggest corporations involved in many different key
fields, not only in Vietnam but also in other countries all over the world. Vincom, the real
estate company, is supposed to be the most important sector contributing to the success of the
Vingroup. They have taken over a lot of well-known resorts, luxury villas and apartment
buildings around Vietnam, incorporating a huge range of additional facilities.
My major involves the property business, so I decided to do my internship there. It is an

extremely big company with dynamic and loyal staff, and a highly professional working style
as well. They formulate their business strategy clearly and try to reach the targets which they
have set. Their staff receive excellent compensation and benefits packages.
It was a valuable chance for me to broaden my own knowledge not only in my major but also
in many other fields. It enhanced my soft skills and allowed me to enlarge my social network.
Therefore, I will try my best to become an employee in Vincom in the near future.
Vocabulary:
internship: [noun] a period of time in which a student or new graduate gets experience in a
job, for example during vacations.
Example: My cousin is doing an internship with a company of lawyers after graduating in law
last month.
dream workplace: [noun] the ideal place where you would like to work.
Example: If you love chocolates, a chocolate factory would be your dream workplace.

real estate: [noun] property in the form of land or buildings.
Example: My aunt works in a real estate company, selling and renting houses to customers.
take over: [phrasal verb] gain control of.

Example: His small electronics company was taken over by Samsung.
resorts: [noun] a place where a lot of people go on holiday/vacation.

Example: Many British tourists go to beach resorts in Thailand.
luxury villas: [noun] expensive houses where people stay on holiday/vacation.

Example: The luxury villas in Spain have private swimming pools and expensive furniture.
facilities: [noun] services or equipment that are provided for a particular purpose.
Example: The hotel has many facilities, such as satellite TVs in every room and free wi-fi
internet connection.
dynamic: [adjective] having a lot of energy and strong personality.
Example: We have to say that Batman and Superman are dynamic characters.
loyal: [adjective] always supporting someone or something.

Example: The minister has always been a loyal friend to the President.
formulate: [verb] to create or prepare something carefully and in detail.

Example: The owners of the company formulated a plan to take over a rival firm.
compensation: [noun] something, especially money, which you receive if you have been hurt,
injured or if you have suffered in some way.
Example: When my father lost his job, the company paid him compensation of a full salary
for 1 year.
benefits package: [noun] a number of things which an employer provides in addition to

paying your salary.
Example: The job offers a good benefits package, which includes free health insurance and
the use of a company car.
soft skills: [noun] personal qualities that enable you to deal successfully with other people.
Example: Candidates for the job should have soft skills, such as working well in a team and an
ability to listen to and respect the opinions of work colleagues.

45. Describe a time when someone apologized to you.
You should say:
When it happened
Why he/she apologized to you
How you felt
ANSWER
On Tuesday last week, I was riding my motorbike to school. Actually, I was in a hurry;
otherwise, I would have been late for the class. Unfortunately, there was heavy traffic
congestion. In front of me there was just a long stream of cars and bikes. Therefore, I had no
choice but to slow down and join the queue of vehicles.
Suddenly, a scooter hit me from behind, which made me panic and fall off my bike. I suffered
a few bruises and a minor elbow injury. A few seconds later, the rider on the scooter got off,
came up to me and apologized for his carelessness. He also offered to take me to hospital for
a checkup, but it was unnecessary as I was okay.
To be honest, at first, I was very angry with him for crashing into my motorbike, but his
sincere concern calmed me down and I decided to accept his apology. Then, I continued on
my way to school.
I realize that we can all make mistakes sometimes, but if we make an apology, almost
everyone will forgive us. So, it is best to own up and accept responsibility for your mistakes.
VOCABULARY
heavy traffic congestion: [expression] the state of being crowded and full of traffic.
Example: In an attempt to reduce heavy traffic congestion in the centre of London, motorists
now have to pay to enter the city centre.
a long stream of: [expression] a continuous flow of cars and bikes.

Example: A long stream of vehicles was waiting to cross the bridge, but they were moving
slowly because of the traffic congestion.
slow down: [phrasal verb] go at a slower speed.

Example: Near schools and hospitals, motorists should slow down in order to reduce the
chances of an accident.
suffer: [verb] experience something unpleasant, like an injury.

Example: During the meal, he suffered a heart attack and an ambulance took him to hospital.

bruises: [noun] blue or brown marks that appear on your body after you have fallen or been
hit.
Example: After the accident, he suffered some cuts and bruises as a result of falling on to the
ground.
came up to me: [phrasal verb] approached me.

Example: After the match, a journalist came up to me and asked my opinion about the result.
calmed me down: [phrasal verb] made me less angry.

Example: I was angry with the boy and I wanted to hit him, but the teacher calmed me down
by telling the boy to apologise for what he had done.
on my way: [expression] going.

Example: I am on my way to the park – do you want to come?
own up: [phrasal verb] admit that you are responsible for something bad or wrong.
Example: When the teacher collected our homework, I had to own up and explain that I had
not finished it.
46. Describe a story or a novel that was particularly interesting to you
You should say:
• What the story/novel is
• What it is about
• Why you find it interesting
ANSWER:
I would like to talk about my favorite classic novel called The Godfather, which is written by
a well-known Italian author, Mario Puzo. I came across this novel when I was trying to find a
dictionary at a bookstore. It was published in hard-cover version and there was a colourful
illustration on the front which caught my eye.
At first, although I was not much impressed by the novel’s preview, I still bought it and
started to read the story right after getting home. Surprisingly, the more I read “The
Godfather”, the more it appealed to me. This novel told the story of an Italian imaginary
character named Vito Corleone, who was a mafia boss in America after World War I. What

attracted me in this story was the way the author described Vito’s tricks to survive in a
chaotic society. Thanks to this novel, I learned a lot about the course of American history in
that lawless period.
After finishing this book, I read some more novels by Mario Puzo and they were all
fascinating. I realize that reading books is a good way to gain knowledge; therefore,
everyone should get into the habit of reading.
VOCABULARY
classic: [adjective] accepted as being one of the best or most important of its type.
Example: The story of Romeo and Juliet is a classic tale of love and revenge.
come across: [phrasal verb] to meet or find somebody or something by chance.

Example: Yesterday, I came across some old photographs in a drawer.
hard-cover: [adjective] with a stiff cover which does not bend.

Example: The hard-cover version of the book is expensive, so I am waiting for the paperback
version to be published.
caught my eye: [expression] attracted my attention.

Example: As I looked at the shop window, a dark blue jacket caught my eye.
right after: [adverb] immediately after.

Example: Yesterday, I spoke to the teacher right after the class.
appeal to: [phrasal verb] attract or interest someone.

Example: The company’s new website is designed to appeal to people of all ages.
chaotic: [adjective] confused and without any order.

Example: At busy times, the traffic situation is chaotic in New York.
lawless: [adjective] where laws do not exist or are not obeyed.

Example: Chicago was known as a lawless city, controlled by gangsters and the mafia.
fascinating: [adjective] very interesting.

Example: She has written a fascinating book about the history of crime in America.

get into the habit of: [expression] do something regularly, so that you do it almost without
thinking.
Example: My sister has got into the habit of turning on the TV when she arrives home.
47. Describe some local news that people in your locality are interested in.
You should say:
what the news is
how you know about this news
who is involved in this news
and explain why it is interesting to people.
ANSWER
I came across this intriguing article in a newspaper I read at my school’s library. It involved
how positive attitudes have greatly affected people’s success, based on the story of how a
local woman had never given up her dream and had now become a world-famous novelist.
According to the news story, optimistic people are more likely to be successful. Since they
look at the bright side, their lives are always full of enjoyment. Therefore, when running into
problems, optimists try their best to work out solutions. This leads them to great
achievements. In contrast, pessimistic people tend to act negatively, which not only puts them
under a lot of strain, but also has a bad impact on their performance and people around them.
Since I read this news, I have tried to maintain positive attitudes about everything. Whenever
I fail to do something, I will not blame myself but work harder to overcome such failure. I
hope that, like this woman, everybody can learn to be optimistic about whatever situation
they face.
VOCABULARY
intriguing: [adjective] very interesting, because the news was unusual.
Example: He told me an intriguing story about how a shark had once attacked him while he
was swimming in the sea.
had never given up: [phrasal verb] had never abandoned: she had always continued to believe
in her dream.
Example: The police announced that – after 10 days – they had finally given up looking for
survivors of the air crash.
world-famous: [adjective] known all over the world

Example: McDonald’s is a world-famous chain of fast-food restaurants.
novelist: [noun] a person who writes novels – fictional stories.

Example: The author of the ‘Harry Potter’ books used to teach English, but now she is a world-
famous novelist.
optimistic: [adjective] expecting good things to happen or to be successful.

Example: He was optimistic about his chances of passing the exam, because he had studied
hard.
look at/on the bright side: [expression] to be cheerful about a bad situation, by thinking of the
advantages – not the disadvantages.
Example: Although you have lost your keys, look on the bright side – your brother has a copy
of all of them.
work out (solutions): [phrasal verb] think of (solutions).

Example: Engineers work out solutions to many technical problems when they design new
buildings.
pessimistic: [adjective] expecting bad things to happen or expecting things to fail.

Example: The patient was very ill, and the doctors were pessimistic about his chances of
recovering.
puts them under a lot of strain: [expression] puts a lot of pressure on them, because they are
worried about being able to solve a difficulty.
Example: The team have lost every match, so this puts them under a lot of strain when they
have to face new opponents.
whatever: any or every (situation)

Example: Whatever the situation about your travel visa, we will work out a solution together.
48. Describe the first time you used a foreign language to communicate.
You should say:
what the situation was
where you were
who you communicated with
and explain why you used a foreign language to communicate on this occasion.

ANSWER
I have been learning English for a long time, but I haven’t had many chances to practice
speaking English with native speakers. To the best of my recollection, the first time I used it
was on Christmas Eve three years ago.
At that time, I was hanging out with my friends. Suddenly, a foreigner came up to me and
asked for directions to a supermarket. Honestly, he spoke too quickly for me to catch
everything. But after he repeated his words, I finally understood and showed him the way to
the nearest supermarket. I used body language a lot to explain the directions to him, since I
didn’t speak English well then. After that, he said “Thank you” to me and headed for the
supermarket.
I realize that English plays an important role in our life, despite the fact that we don’t live in
English-speaking countries. It is spoken globally and it’s becoming the dominant language.
Therefore, I have been trying to practice speaking English daily so that I can have a good
command of this language, and I can talk confidently with foreigners, whatever the topic of
conversation.
VOCABULARY
to the best of my recollection: [expression] if I remember correctly.

Example: I was not present at that meeting, to the best of my recollection.
hanging out: [phrasal verb] spending a lot of time in a particular place, but doing no special
activity.
Example: My friends and I enjoy hanging out at our local coffee shop, just chatting and
enjoying a coffee.
came up to: [phrasal verb] approached.

Example: The manager came up to me and shook my hand.
catch everything: [expression] hear or understand everything that he said.

Example: At the train station it was too noisy to hear all the information clearly, and I was
unable to catch everything.
body language: [noun] the way that you show what you feel or think by moving your body.
Example: Sometimes, our teacher uses body language, not words, to help to communicate an
idea.
headed for: [phrasal verb] moved in a particular direction.

Example: After the show finished, everyone headed for the exits.
have a good command of: [expression] have a good knowledge of something.

Example: People who apply for this job must have a good command of English, in order to
communicate with our American customers.
49. Describe an occasion when you helped someone.
You should say:
who you helped
how you helped them
where it happened
why you helped them
and explain how this person reacted to your help
or
and explain how you felt after helping this person.
ANSWER
Yesterday, when walking to school, I came across a pregnant woman. She was holding a
baby and carrying a lot of plastic bags containing fruit and vegetables. Those bags seemed to
be heavy, which made it difficult for her to hold her child. So, I quickly walked up to her and
offered to help her by carrying all of the bags.
At first, she was quite suspicious about my sudden appearance. Well, it is understandable to
be cautious with strangers. If I were her, I would do the same. But then, she recognized the
school uniform I was wearing. Therefore, she thanked me in advance and gave me all of her
plastic bags, and I carried them to her house. When we arrived, she offered me a cup of tea
and even invited me to stay for lunch, but I politely declined as I had to go back to school.
Otherwise, I would have been late for classes.
To my mind, doing a good deed makes me feel more comfortable and optimistic about
everything, so I hope that everyone will help each other regularly for the sake of our mutual
well-being.
VOCABULARY
came across: [phrasal verb] met her by accident.

Example: Last week, I came across an old school friend in the supermarket.
walked up to: [phrasal verb] walked towards her, in a confident way.

Example: In the shop, I walked up to the manager and demanded my money back.
suspicious: [adjective] she was unwilling to trust me, because I had appeared suddenly and she
did not know me.
Example: Parents teach children to be suspicious of strangers who approach them in the street.
understandable: [adjective] seeming normal and reasonable in a particular situation.

Example: Being nervous before an exam is perfectly understandable.
politely declined: [adverb+verb] I refused in a polite way to accept her offer.

Example: I offered to give them a lift in my car, but they politely declined.
doing a good deed: [expression] doing an action that is good.

Example: I enjoy doing a good deed, such as going to the shops, for my elderly neighbour.
our mutual well-being: [expression] actions that benefit two or more people equally.
Example: We should always try to be honest and generous with others, for the sake of our
mutual well-being.
50. Describe what you think would be the perfect job for you.
You should say:
what job it would be
what you would do in this job
and explain why you think this would be the perfect job for you.
ANSWER
For me, the ideal job that I would like to have is to be an air hostess.
This job involves taking care of customers on planes, serving food and drinks, and making
sure that they have a safe flight. In Vietnam, to apply for this position, an applicant has to
meet various requirements, including being at least 20 years old, having good communication

and problem-solving skills, having a good command of language, and so on. One special
thing is this career is open to both men and women, although women are preferred.
There are many reasons why I think this job would suit me. Firstly, I have a passion for
traveling. Taking this job, I could travel to many countries on a regular basis.
Occasionally, when I have free time between flights, I would be able to go sightseeing and
enjoy a variety of local food. Secondly, I have quite a good command of English and French,
which are spoken by the majority of people around the world. Therefore, this would help me a
lot if I could get this job. Lastly, I am really interested in talking with others. So, I believe that
this job is perfect for me since I would meet hundreds of people every day. As a final point,
I hope that I can follow my dream career in the future.
VOCABULARY
taking care of: [phrasal verb] providing customers with everything that they need for their
comfort and protection.
Example: My mother is taking care of my children while I am away on business.
applicant: [noun] a person who makes a formal request for something, such as a job or a place
at university.
Example: I don’t think that I will get the job, because there were hundreds of applicants.
having a good command of: [expression] having a good knowledge, especially of a language,
and the ability to speak it well.
Example: Having a good command of at least one foreign language is necessary for most
people working in the tourist industry.
open to: [adjective] available to, because both men and women can enter this profession.
Example: This job is open to people of all ages, but applicants must have a university
qualification.
on a regular basis: [expression] regularly.

Example: The fire equipment is checked on a regular basis, usually at the end of each month.
go sightseeing: [verb] visit interesting places as a tourist.

Example: I would like to go sightseeing in Hanoi and visit the Old City and the Temple of
Literature.

dream career: [noun] the profession that I would really love to have.
Example: For a lot of boys, their dream career is to be a football player.
51. Describe a foreign country you would like to go to. ( A country you have not been to
yet)
You should say:
what country it is (including where it is in the world)
what this country is like
what people can do in this country
and explain why you would like to go to this country.
ANSWER
There are so many countries that I have not had a chance to go to, but one of those that I would
like to visit in my upcoming trip is Myanmar.
It is located in South East Asia. The country is like Thailand 25 years ago, before shopping
malls, and fastfood chains expanded in the country. Thus it remains rustic and traditional
compared to the modern world.
The people here are said to be friendly; they are willing to go out of their way to show you
around and they are very keen on practicing their English skills. Myanmar is famous for its
ancient city named Bagan, with more than 3,000 temples which date back to the 11th century. I
would particulary love to see the Shwedagon Pagoda. It is considered to be the greatest and
most sacred Buddhist temple in the country. The entire structure, which dates back 2,500
years, is covered with hundreds of gold plates.
Since the country has just been opened up to the outside world, it still keeps the originality of
its culture. That’s why I want to go there, to experience the country and the people before
globalization changes everything.
VOCABULARY
fastfood chain: [noun] a network of restaurants like McDonald’s, which you can find in many
different places, serving food such as burgers and fries.

rustic: [adjective] simple and typical of the countryside.
Example: The old church in the small village had a rustic appearance.
go out of their way to: [verb phrase] to make a special effort to do something.
Example: The teacher went out of her way to help the students, giving free classes before the
exams.
show someone around: [verb phrase] to be a guide for somebody when they visit a new place
and to show them what is interesting.
Example: We were shown around the school by one of the students.
sacred: [adjective] connected with a god, and considered to be holy.

Example: In Islam, Mecca is a sacred city.
opened up: [phrasal verb] possible to be visited.

Example: The railways opened up many remote parts of the country.
globalization: [noun] the process by which places become similar to each other all over the
world.
Example: You can now buy burgers in fastfood restaurants like McDonald’s all over the
world, as a result of globalization.
52. Describe something that you have shared with others (or another person)
You should say:
what you shared
who you shared it with.
why you shared it

and explain how you felt about sharing it
ANSWER:
Well, I’m kind of an introverted person so I do not tend to share my stories with others. The
only person I fully trust to confide in is my best friend from secondary school, because we
have been close for over 10 years.
At my first year in university, I was a little bored with the major that I had been studying,
because it was not exactly what I had signed up for at first. I meant to apply for the
commercial English department, but unfortunately I did not have a high enough score and,
therefore, business management was my second choice. A lot of thoughts crossed my mind at
that time, like this major was not really my thing, I would not be able to make it and similar
negative feelings.
I was really depressed and eventually turned to her to ask for help. We had a conversation and
she helped me analyze my interests, personality, strengths and weaknesses, which allowed me
to reach a decision by myself. As a result, I kept studying my major and made time for
learning English besides. As we enjoyed such a close relationship, I felt really reassured when
I received her useful advice.
Now, I’m a final-year student at university, I am pleased with my decision, thanks to her. She
really is my best friend, always stays by my side and never turns her back on me, and I
treasure our friendship a lot.
VOCABULARY:
introverted: [adjective] more interested in your own thoughts and feelings than in spending
time with other people.
Example: As John never interacted with others in class, his teachers considered him to be an
introverted student.
confide in: [phrasal verb] tell someone personal secrets or information because you believe
that you can trust them.
Example: Whenever she had a problem, she confided in her mother.
close: [adjective] knowing someone very well and liking them very much.
Example: I have always been close to my grandfather, and I visit him regularly.
sign up: [phrasal verb] arrange to do a course of study by adding your name to the list of
people doing it.
Example: I decided to sign up for extra English classes to help me with my business course.

crossed my mind: [expression] came into my mind.
Example: This morning, it crossed my mind that I need to see my tutor tomorrow.
not my thing: [expression] not something that I like to do.

Example: I don’t want to go to the concert, because listening to rock music is not really my
thing.
be able to make it: [expression] be able to succeed in something.

Example: I was surprised to win the competition – I never thought I’d be able to make it.
depressed: [adjective] feeling sad and without hope.

Example: He felt depressed when he failed the exam, but now he is determined to succeed
next time.
reach a decision: [expression] decide something after some difficulty.

Example: I was not sure whether to visit Thailand or Singapore, but finally I reached a
decision – I would go to Singapore.
reassured: [adjective] feel less frightened or anxious.

Example: The doctor told him that the medical tests were OK, so he felt very reassured.
turns her back on: [expression] rejects someone that she is close to.
Example: She never turns her back on the people in her family – she is always ready to
support them.
treasure: [verb] have or keep something that is very valuable to you.

Example: Although he is no longer living, I will always treasure my memories of my
grandfather.
53. Describe a course you would like to study (or, do).

You should say:
what course it is (or, would be)
where you would do it
what you would learn in that course

and explain why you would like to do this course.
ANSWER
Well, speaking of the course I’d like to do, I would say that it’s an English course. Today,
English is considered to be the most important language in the world. That’s why it became
one of the compulsory subjects and we now have to study English from elementary onwards.
I’d like to get admitted to the Foreign Trade University which offers a professional course in
Business English. They have a good reputation for teaching this course effectively to a high
standard. As I have other classes in the morning, I would like to enroll in the afternoon course.
Also, the course fee is both cheap and convenient for me to pay using my bank account. There
are so many reasons why I’d like to enroll in an English course. First of all, English is an
international language, hence, having a knowledge of English can help people around the
world to communicate better. Second, it also gives us countless opportunities to become more
acquainted with other cultures. We depend on English to keep up to date with the latest news
from all over the world, since almost all the books and magazines are written in this language.
Finally, learning English can really help us in our careers and enhance our CVs, as these days,
many firms need good office employees to conduct international business.
VOCABULARY
compulsory: [adjective] that must be done because of a rule or law.
Example: In some countries, it is compulsory to attend school until the age of 16.
onwards: [adverb] continuing from a particular time.

Example: I will be in my office from 8:00 am onwards, until I leave at 6:00 in the evening.
reputation: [noun] the opinion that people have about someone/something is like, based on
what has happened in the past.
Example: The restaurant enjoys an international reputation for the best Thai cuisine.
countless: [adjective] very many; too many to be counted or mentioned.

Example: The teacher has warned him countless times to pay attention in class.
acquainted: [adjective] familiar with something having seen, heard or read it.

Example: The students are already acquainted with the history of our country, having studied
it at elementary level.
keep up to date with: [expression] be informed about the latest information.

Example: I watch the news on TV every day, in order to keep up to date with the political
situation.
CVs: [noun] short descriptions of your education and qualifications, which you give to an
employer when you go for an interview.
Example: Students should make sure that they write good CVs, to help them when they apply
for a job.
firm: [noun] company.

Example: She works for a firm of lawyers in Paris.
conduct: [verb] organize or do a particular activity.

Example: The school has decided to conduct all its classes in English.
54. Describe a positive change that you made to your life.

You should say:
when it happened
where it happened
what the change was
and explain how you have benefited from this change
(or, explain how you feel about this change)
ANSWER
I’m going to talk about a positive change that I made to my life. To be honest, going to bed
early was not really my kind of thing before. But, because it was not good for my health, I
decided to change my bad habit of late nights about a year ago.
As far as I remember, my late sleeping pattern had begun when I was studying for my
university entrance exam 4 years ago. During that time, I had tended to stay up pretty late to
do my assignments. Gradually, I became used to the habit and still kept it up until a year ago.
Then, I found myself having eye-related problems and headaches, which naturally made me

very anxious. Therefore, I went to see a doctor for a medical check-up. It turned out that the
major cause of these health problems was my late nights. The doctor advised me to change my
routine as soon as possible to treat the symptoms effectively.
Since that time, I have tried my best to maintain an early sleeping habit, because I don’t want
to put my health at unnecessary risk. Now, I usually read something light before going to bed
at 11pm. Of course, this also helps me to get up earlier the next morning.
At the moment, I find that it has been a good decision to adopt a healthier lifestyle. I learnt
the hard way that, sometimes, you should do something to break harmful habits in order to
make your life better, despite the fact that those habits are sometimes so tough to change.
VOCABULARY:
my kind of thing: [expression] something in which I am interested and like.

Example: I did not accept her invitation to go to the rock concert, because rock music in not
really my kind of thing.
late nights: [noun] nights when you don’t go to bed until very late.
Example: I spent many late nights studying for the exam.
tend: [verb] be likely to do something, because this is what often or usually happens.
Example: She tended to get nervous before taking exams, but now she is more confident.
keep it up: [phrasal verb] continue to do something.
Example: My sister started going to a yoga class a year ago, and she has kept it up ever since.
anxious: [adjective] feeling worried or nervous.

Example: I felt anxious when she did not call me from the airport.
check-up: [noun] a general examination to make sure that you are healthy.
Example: My doctor arranges a regular medical check-up for all patients over 60.
turn out: [phrasal verb] be discovered to be, prove to be.

Example: It turned out that we had been to the same school, although I did not recognize her
when we were introduced to each other.
symptoms: [noun] a change in your body that shows you are not healthy.
Example: One of the first symptoms of a cold is having a high temperature.
light: [adjective] entertaining, and not very serious.

Example: When I go to the beach, I like to read something light, such as a detective story.

adopt: [verb] start to show a particular attitude towards someone/something.
Example: After failing the exam several times, he started to adopt a pessimistic view of his
chances.
learn the hard way: [expression] learn by unpleasant experiences, rather than by being taught.
Example: If she won’t listen to my advice, she will have to learn the hard way.
break: [verb] make something end.

Example: Because of his illness, he broke his daily habit of taking a walk every morning.
tough: [adjective] difficult.

Example: The exam is really tough, so we will have spend some late nights studying.
55. Describe a situation that made you a little angry.

You should say: what it was that made you angry
where you were when this happened
what you were doing at the time
who you were with and explain how you handled this situation or
and explain why you felt angry.
ANSWER
Today, I would like to share with you a situation that made me a little angry. Two months ago
when I did some online shopping for a jacket on the internet, I had the worst online shopping
experience ever, which made me so annoyed.
I was surfing the internet to browse the options, looking for a warm casual jacket to get me
through the colder weather that will soon be upon us. I stumbled upon one that was exactly
what I wanted, so I left a comment to catch the seller’s attention. I decided to order and pay for
it and asked for it to be delivered to my house as soon as possible. She promised me that it
would arrive within 2 days.
However, after 2 days I had received nothing. I found myself being cheated and it really made
my blood boil. I tried my best to reach her to ask about the jacket which I had paid for, but
there was never any answer at all when I tried to contact her. That’s when it dawned on me that

she had lied to me and the whole thing was a scam. My anger grew and I felt frustrated and
confused at that time, because I could not do anything about it.
So, I learned the hard way that it was so risky to buy products online. I should not have done it.
In future, if I come across something on the internet that I would really like, I will head for a
store to check it out carefully before making a purchase decision.
VOCABULARY:
surf: [verb] use [the internet].

Example: I am surfing the internet for information about the new James Bond film.
browse: [verb] look at a lot of things, hoping to find something that you like.
Example: I sometimes go to my local bookstore to browse through the fiction section.
casual: [adjective] comfortable and informal clothes.

Example: In my spare time, when I don’t have to go to work, I prefer to wear casual clothes.
get me through: [expression] help me to cope with a situation successfully.

Example: When I can’t sleep, I sometimes watch TV to help get me through the night.
stumble upon: [phrasal verb] discover something/someone unexpectedly.

Example: While I was browsing through some websites, I stumbled upon the information that
I needed for my essay.
cheat: [verb] trick someone or make them believe something which is not true.
Example: Many people felt cheated when the government failed to build more schools, as it
had promised to do.
made my blood boil: [expression] cause someone to be angry.

Example: When my laptop was stolen, it made my blood boil and I needed a few minutes to
calm down.
dawn on: [phrasal verb] realize something for the first time.
Example: When I entered the airport, it dawned on me that I had forgotten my passport.
scam: [noun] a clever and dishonest plan for making money.

Example: The offer of a free holiday was false. It was simply a scam to encourage people to
buy tickets from the airline.

learned the hard way: [expression] learn from a bad experience, rather than being taught.
Example: After I had an accident on my bike, I learned the hard way that I should always
wear a protective helmet.
risky: [adjective] involving the possibility of something bad happening.

Example: Working on a construction site is a risky job – you always have to be careful.
head for: [phrasal verb] go towards, go to find something.

Example: While my wife went looking for a new coat to buy, I headed for the nearest coffee
shop!
56. Describe a skill you learned when you were a child.

You should say:
what skill it was
who taught you this skill
how you learned it
and explain why you learned this skill.
ANSWER
Today, I would like to share with you a skill I learned when I was a child. Music is really my
kind of thing, especially the sound of musical instruments. One of those that I enjoyed
immensely was piano. I had always been attracted to this sound, therefore, I signed up for a
piano course when I was in grade 5.
My piano teacher was on the wrong side of 30, but she looked quite young for her age.
To be honest, I didn’t pick up playing the piano very easily, so I had a problem in learning this
skill at first. Fortunately, she was a very experienced and enthusiastic teacher, and she helped
to familiarize me with every single lesson. I definitely found it soothing and inspiring when
she taught me how to play the piano effectively.
Besides taking piano lessons, I also tried my best to learn on my own through the internet,
spending a lot of time searching for online lessons to work on. I did pretty well, and as a result,
I had a chance to join a piano contest that took place at The Opera House in Hanoi. I was really
proud of that.

I have discovered that music plays an integral part in my life, getting me through tough
situations, even the hardest days. Sometimes, I think everybody needs to take a little time to
wind down and enjoy ourselves. Playing piano is actually how I usually spend my free time
because it is really a good way for me to relax and refresh my mind.
VOCABULARY
my kind of thing (expression): something that you like or that you are into
Example: Hip hop music is my kind of thing, but I can’t stand country music.
immensely (adv): greatly, especially
Example: She loves Taylor Swift immensely. I think she is her biggest fan.
to be attracted to (expression): to really like someone or something

Example: She has been attracted to fashion since she was only two or three years old. She
loves to shop for clothing.
on the wrong side of 30 (expression): to be on the downhill side of a decade, so after 35,
going toward 40, in this case.
Example: My professor must be on the wrong side of 50, but his girlfriend doesn’t care.
pick up (phrasal verb): to learn something

Example: When I was living in France, I picked up French very easily after only a few months.
Fortunately (adv): used to say that something good or lucky has happened
Example: Fortunately for him, his mother paid for his plane ticket to New York.
enthusiastic (adj): excited, having a positive and upbeat attitude

Example: He is an enthusiastic swimmer; he swims every day for 2 hours.
familiarize me with (expression): to learn about something new

Example: I need to familiarize myself with this new cell phone that I just purchased yesterday.
definitely (adv): for sure

Example: I definitely do not want to eat pizza again this evening. I have eaten it every night
this week.
soothing (adj): relaxing, usually something soft and quiet

Example: She put on some soothing music and took a bath.

inspiring (adj): that which motivates you to do something
Example: The speech that the president gave turned out to be so inspiring that the workers
decided to stop their strike.
to work on (phrasal verb): to do, to practice

Example: I have to work on my English if I want to pass the IELTS exam.
to play an integral part in (something) (expression): to be an important part of something

Example: My husband plays an integral part in running the day-to-day operations of our family
business.
wind down (phrasal verb): to relax, usually after doing something hard
Example: After coming home from work, she had a glass of wine and a bath to wind down.
refresh (verb): to make (someone) have more energy and feel less tired or less hot
Example: When he finishes his workout, he takes a shower to refresh himself before going to
work.
57. Describe a time when you forgot something important.
You should say:
when it happened
what you forgot
what was the result of your forgetting
and explain why it was important.
ANSWER
Today I am going to share with you the time when I forgot something important/ I (once)
borrowed something useful. It happened a few months ago when I had to attend an important
exam for my accounting qualification.
The test strictly required candidates to use black ball point pen to write the paper. I was sure
that morning when I left for the exam that I had put two pens in my backpack. However, I was
not sure of their ink colors. So by the time I reached the examination hall, I quickly opened my
backpack to check. To my surprise, they were both blue pens.
This could have resulted in my answer booklet being disqualified and I would have had to re-
take the exam. Since the exam was held twice a year only, this mistake would not only have
cost me valuable time but also a lot of money for the upcoming exams.

In panic, I looked around to see any familiar face to ask for help; however, I did not see
anyone but the examiner. I took a deep breath and decided to ask him if he had a spare black
pen that I could borrow.
Luckily, he did. He was willing to lend me one and did not forget to remind me about the
regulation. I was relieved and ready to sit my exam, thanks to a kind examiner.
VOCABULARY
disqualified: [verb] prevent somebody from doing something, because they have broken the
regulations.
Example: The police stopped the man in his car. He had been drinking and driving and he was
disqualified from driving for 3 years.
upcoming: [adjective] something which is upcoming is going to happen soon.

Example: Brazil is preparing for the upcoming Olympic Games in 2016.
panic: [noun] a sudden feeling of fear.

Example: As the fire spread through the school, the students ran out in panic.
breath: [noun] an amount of air which enters your lungs at one time.
Example: He can count from 1 to 20 in one breath.
58. Describe a sport stadium that’s important in your city.
You should say:
where it is
what people do there
and explain why you think it is important
ANSWER
I would like to talk about My Dinh National Stadium which hosts various important national
and international level events. This multi – purpose stadium is located in My Dinh suburban
commune, Tu Liem district, Hanoi capital. This stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000. Also
it was officially opened in 2003.
This stadium is not far from my house, actually just about 300m to the north. I often go there
whenever there are activities which interest me. People usually visit / attend there to

encourage and support sporting events, especially Vietnam teams as well as enjoy entertaining
activities.
My Dinh stadium is very important to not only Hanoi but also the whole country due to its
irreplaceable functions. It is one of the biggest and most well-equipped
stadiums in Vietnam utilized as a showcase to stage a large number of important events
namely the 2003 Southeast Asia Games, and the 2008 AFC Champions
League.
Moreover, this stadium plays a critical role since many foreigners might get to
know/come to know about Vietnam through the activities held there. Therefore, it is essential
to promote a good image of it in order to impress foreigners positively.
VOCABULARY
Multi-purpose (adjective): (đa chức năng) having many different uses
Example: This room is multi-purpose – we use it for meetings, interviews, and
taking breaks.
Capacity (noun): (sức chứa) the total amount that can be contained or produced, or
(especially of a person or organization) the ability to do a particular thing
Example: The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000.
Interest (verb): (làm ai hứng thú) to attract your attention and make you feel
interested; to make yourself give your attention to something.
Example: She has always interested herself in charity work.
Irreplaceable: (adjective) (không thể thay thế được) too valuable or special to be replaced.
Example: Most of the porcelain you see in the display cabinets is irreplaceable.
Utilize: (verb) (sử dụng) to use something, especially for a practical purpose
Example: The Romans were the first to utilize concrete as a building material
59. Describe a product you bought that you were happy with.
You should say:
what you bought
(when and) where you bought it
why you bought it

and explain why you were happy with it.
ANSWER:
It was last summer that I bought a new yogurt maker and I am very satisfied with it. This
machine is quite small and fits conveniently into my kitchen. Interestingly, it looks like a
cooker with six glasses inside. And the most important thing is that it is very easy to use.
You just have to pour the mixture of ingredients to make yogurt into these glasses, turn the
yogurt maker on and leave it for a few hours. Then, you will have delicious home-made
yogurt.
Thanks to the simple instructions, I can make yogurt for my whole family any time I want. As
yogurt is good for our health, eating it daily can make people healthier, it can help to prevent
some potentially fatal diseases and boost the human immune system. Therefore, the members
of my family have all adopted the habit of eating yogurt every day. Owning a yogurt maker
helped me to cut down considerably the amount of time that it took to make yogurt, not to
mention the higher quality as opposed to the traditional method.
At present, I still make yogurt every day for my family with this machine and I think that this
is an indispensable product for preparing an essential part of our regular diet.
VOCABULARY:
fits: [verb] is the right shape and size for something.
Example: This jacket fits me perfectly, but those shoes don’t fit at all.
pour: [verb] to make a liquid flow from a container.

Example: Pour some milk into my glass, please.
potentially: [adverb] used to say that something may develop into something.
Example: Smoking will not kill you immediately, but it is potentially harmful for your health.
fatal: [adjective] causing or ending in death.

Example: Police were called to a fatal accident, in which 3 people were killed.
immune system: [expression] the system in your body that helps it fight against infection and
disease.
Example: A strong immune system is necessary to remain fit and healthy.
adopted the habit: [expression] started to use a particular method of doing something.
Example: Last month, my friend adopted the habit of running for one hour every day in order
to keep fit.

cut down: [phrasal verb] reduce the amount, size or number of something.
Example: I should cut down my working hours and spend more time just relaxing.
indispensable: [adjective] too important to be without it

Example: A good dictionary is indispensable for learning a foreign language.
ANSWER [VERSION 2]
(Bản này mình sửa lại sản phẩm là điện thoại nên sẽ phù hợp với nhiều bạn hơn)
Last summer, I bought a Nokia smart phone that I was really satisfied with.
My cell phone was the latest product from Nokia, so there were various useful applications
such as video calling, emails, games, music players, and so on. I intended to use this smart
phone to listen to music, make phone calls, send messages and check emails. I must say that
this portable device helps me a lot no matter where I am.
There were numerous reasons why I took an interest in this product. Firstly, I wanted to use
it for entertainment purposes. I could refresh myself after a hard day’s work by enjoying
music or watching reality shows on the Internet. Moreover, thanks to this smart phone, I
was able to keep in touch with my old friends whom I could not meet in person regularly.
Besides, this mobile phone helped me to handle my workload effectively. For example, I
could check emails when waiting for the bus, which saved a lot of time.
As a final point, I would emphasize that I chose the mobile phone myself. That was the main
reason why I felt so happy with this product.
VOCABULARY
portable device: [noun] an object that is easy to carry or to move.

Example: A lot of people on my flight were using portable devices, such as their laptops,
during the journey.
took an interest in: [expression] wanted to know more about the product.
Example: My parents took an interest in my grades at school, because they wanted me to go
to university.
entertainment: [noun] for interest and amusement.

Example: The local newspaper gives news about entertainment, with information on all the
latest films, music, shows and events in our city.
refresh myself: [verb] make myself feel less tired and stressed.

Example: After work, I usually refresh myself with a shower and a hot drink.
reality shows: [noun] shows that use real people [not actors] in real situations, in order to
provide entertainment.
Example: Reality shows like ‘Big Brother’ are very cheap to make, because there are no actors
to pay.
handle my workload: [expression] manage the amount of work that I have to do.
Example: The company has paid me for some extra hours to handle my increased workload.
60. Describe a special toy you had in your childhood.
You should say:
what it was
who gave it to you
how often you played with it (or, how you played with it) *
and explain why it was special for you.
ANSWER:
I remember that when I was young, I was keen on watching the cartoon called “The many
adventures of Winnie the Pooh”, so much that I kept pestering my father for the stuffed bear
Winnie the Pooh. Finally, my father gave me one as a present for my 6th birthday. When I got
this toy, I jumped for joy and even paid no attention to my other presents.
This stuffed bear was, incredibly, identical to the character in the cartoon I had watched. He
also had a short red shirt and was holding a jar of honey which was his favorite food.
Therefore, I felt as if he had come from the movie.
Since then, I considered him my closest friend and I couldn’t go anywhere without him, even
when I went to sleep. Every day, I talked with the bear and told him about my daily routine.
Unfortunately, I lost the bear at an amusement center, which made me cry for almost a week.
At that time, I felt like I had lost a good friend who I could share everything with.
At present, whenever I watch this cartoon or see any photos of Winnie the Pooh, all the
wonderful memories about him are brought back. Thanks to the bear, I experienced a happy
childhood.
VOCABULARY:

was keen on: [phrasal verb] was eager to/was enthusiastic about
Example: He was keen on fishing when he was a boy, and he still loves to go fishing at
weekends.
pestering: [verb] annoying someone by asking them many times.

Example: In the shop, some children were pestering their mother to buy ice-cream.
stuffed bear: [noun] a toy in the shape of a bear, made of cloth and filled with soft material.
Example: Stuffed bears have always been popular as toys for young children.
identical to: [adjective] exactly the same as someone or something else.

Example: His sports bag is identical to mine, and as a result one day I took his bag by mistake.
amusement center: [noun] a center which has a lot of things which you can play on and many
different activities to enjoy.
Example: Our city has a huge shopping mall, and it has a fantastic amusement center for
children to play while their parents are shopping.
61. Describe a time when you saw an interesting animal.
You should say:
what animal it was
where you saw it
what happened when you saw it
and explain why you thought it was interesting.
ANSWER:
I am raising an Alaska dog, which is a large breed of domestic dog. My dog has a double
coat: the undercoat is soft while the outer one is coarse and water-proof. Also, his coat has
two colors, black and white. In my opinion, his most attractive feature is the small upright
ears which are out of proportion to the head.
Having had this dog for almost a year, I find him intriguing. He is very smart, so he learns
everything quickly. I once taught him how to fetch. Surprisingly enough, he successfully
chased and retrieved the object after I tossed it for the second time. He acted as if he had
intrinsically understood the game. He is also friendly to everyone, especially children.
Whenever someone visits my house, instead of barking, he welcomes them by licking their
feet.

For me, my dog is a friend I can play with after school. I often walk him around the park at
the weekends and he seems to like this, as there are different dogs there. I also talk with him
regularly and I feel that he can understand what I say.
As a final point, I hope that my dog can live with me for a long time.
VOCABULARY:
breed: [noun] an animal such as a dog, horse or cat that has been developed by people in a
controlled way.
Example: The airport police use a breed of dog which can smell hidden drugs in bags and
suitcases.
coat: [noun] the fur or hair which covers the body of an animal.
Example: Some breeds of cows have a thick winter coat to protect against cold weather.
coarse: [adjective] rough

Example: As a result of working on a construction site all his life, his hands were coarse.
upright: [adjective] straight, not lying down or bent.

Example: My dog’s ears appear to be large, because they are upright and this helps him to
hear everything very well.
intriguing: [adjective] interesting and unusual

Example: It is intriguing to see how my teacher explains things so clearly to the class.
fetch: [verb] go to where something is and bring it back.

Example: It started to rain, so I went back to the house to fetch the umbrella for me and my
wife.
retrieved: [verb] to bring something back, especially from a place where it should not be.
Example: The wind blew my hat into the road, so I quickly retrieved it before any cars came.
tossed it: threw it, but in no special direction.

Example: After he had read the newspaper, he tossed it on to the ground.
intrinsically: [adverb] in a way that was part of his real nature or character.
Example: I believed his story, because he is an intrinsically honest man.
barking: [verb] the sound made by a dog.

Example: When the postman arrived, the dog started barking.
licking: [verb] moving its tongue over someone or something.

Example: I saw the cat licking its whiskers after it had finished eating.
62. Describe a meal you had your friends (in someone's home or in a restaurant).
You should say:
who organized this meal
where you had it
what you talked about during the meal
what you ate and drank
and explain why you had this meal with your friends.
ANSWER:
Last month, I had a get-together with some of my high school friends whom I had not met
since we graduated. Then, we decided to have lunch at a well-known pizza restaurant in the
city centre.
Arriving at the restaurant, we were quickly given the menu. What surprised me the most was
that there were various types of pizza and drinks; hence, it took me quite a long time to
choose the food. After that, we talked with each other while waiting for the dishes. Some of
my friends were studying at the same university, some had decided to get a job. And I was
especially impressed by the decision of one friend to take a gap year. She said that as she had
a strong passion for traveling, she would spend one year visiting lots of places.
Then, the dishes were served. The pizza was out-of-this-world and the drinks were tasty
although they were a bit pricey. We kept talking and enjoyed the meal and drinks for about
two hours. Actually, meeting them reminded me of the time when we studied at high school
and I realized that now we were all grown-up, we had our own plans to pursue. But we all
promised to meet up regularly.
VOCABULARY:
get-together: [noun] an informal meeting or gathering of friends.
Example: We usually have a family get-together during the New Year celebrations.

gap year: [noun] the year that a young person spends working and/or travelling after leaving
school and starting university.
Example: I’m planning to take a gap year before I start my university course, and I have
decided to go to see India and China.
have a passion for: [expression] have a hobby or activity that you like very much.
Example: He has a passion for traditional music, and he is learning to play some traditional
musical instruments.
out-of-this-world: [adjective] used to emphasize how good or beautiful something is.

Example: The variety of Vietnamese food available during the Tet holiday is out-of-this-
world.
tasty: [adjective] having a very delicious flavour.

Example: When I want something tasty to eat, I often buy some chocolates or ice-cream.
a bit pricey: [adjective] a little expensive.

Example: Although my favourite restaurant serves food that is out-of-this-world, it is
unfortunately a bit pricey, so I can’t afford to eat there often.
grown-up: [adjective] mentally and physically an adult.

Example: She has a grown-up daughter who works in our local hospital.
meet up: [phrasal verb] to meet someone, usually by arranging a time and place with them
first.
Example: After work, we all met up at the cinema to watch the new James Bond movie.
63. Describe an item of clothing that was bought for you
You should say:
what it was
who bought it
what it looked like
why it was bought for you
and explain how you felt about this item of clothing.
ANSWER:
I would like to describe a coat my parents gave me as a present on my 18th birthday. I must
say that it is really smart and exactly to my liking.

The coat is made of cotton only and by a Vietnamese clothes brand. It is a knee-length
black coat, which was in fashion at that time. What I like the most is that there are two deep
side pockets, so in winter, I always put my hands into those pockets to avoid the cold.
Besides, I can button the coat from top to bottom and it’s also got a decorative waist belt.
I am so fond of this coat that I usually wear it every winter. It fits me perfectly and makes me
feel comfortable and warm, no matter how cold the weather is. I keep myself warm by
wearing the coat with jeans and boots, which match it well.
In fact, I have never thought whether it will be out of fashion. As this coat is a gift from my
parents, I treasure it a lot and – for sure - I will keep wearing this coat in the future.
VOCABULARY:
really smart: [adjective] very clean, neat and attractive.

Example: If you want to look good on special social occasions, or even at work, it is important
to dress in really smart clothes.
to my liking: [expression] suitable, and how somebody likes something.

Example: The smart way in which she has decorated my house is exactly to my liking.
button the coat: [verbal phrase] fasten the coat with buttons.
Example: Stepping outside my warm house, I quickly buttoned the coat which I was wearing
to try and keep warm.
decorative: [adjective] intended to look attractive, because of the way in which it is decorated.
Example: Many tourists visit the Temple of Literature because of the many decorative
sculptures which they can see there.
fond of: [expression] finding something pleasant or enjoyable, especially something that you
have liked or enjoyed for a long time.
Example: My uncle is an excellent musician, and he is very fond of his hobby.
match: [verb] if things match each other, they have the same colour or style and therefore look
attractive together.
Example: None of these shoes match my jeans – they are all very different and they are too
formal.
Treasure: [verb] have or keep something that you love and that is very valuable to you.

Example: Thank you for e-mailing the photos. They are superb and I will always treasure
them and the memories that they bring.
64. Describe a time when the weather caused you to change your plan.
You should say:
when it happened
what happened
how you changed your plan
ANSWER:
Last month, I was going to have a picnic with my friends at a camping site on the outskirts of
the city. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, we had to cancel our plan.
In fact, we planned to have a picnic to refresh ourselves and to relax after the final term
examination. Everything needed such as food, drinks and even a change of clothes was well-
prepared. I was so excited about this trip that I couldn’t sleep, and ended up chatting with my
friends all night. However, on the next day, it was raining heavily, despite the fact that the
weather was forecast to be nice and warm. As a result, we made a decision to put off our
plans.
Instead, we threw a party at my friend’s house. We made some favorite dishes together, and
then played cards. The ones who lost had to buy snacks for all of us. Surprisingly, we soon
forgot all about our misfortune over the picnic. By the way, we enjoyed this party a lot, it
helped us to chill out and get ready for the new term.
VOCABULARY
a change of clothes: [expression] an extra set of clothes.
Example: In case it rained, we took a change of clothes so that we would have some dry
things to wear.
ended up: [phrasal verb] found myself in a situation that I had not expected to be in.
Example: After I was hit by a car, I ended up in hospital for three months.
put off: [phrasal verb] cancel a meeting or arrangement.

Example: Plans to open the new supermarket have been put off until next month.
threw a party: [expression] organized a party.

Example: We threw a party when my sister came to visit us from Australia.

forgot all about: [expression] forgot completely.
Example: He enjoyed the concert so much that he forgot all about his problems at work.
chill out: [phrasal verb] spend time relaxing and forgetting your worries.
Example: On holiday, I like to chill out on the beach and enjoy the fresh air.
65. Describe a place near water (such as a river, a lake or the ocean) that you enjoyed
visiting.
You should say:
where this place was
what you did at this place
who you went there with
and explain why you liked this place.
ANSWER:
Last summer, my family went on a vacation to Cat Ba island, which is located in Hai Phong
city and I was really impressed with the beach there.
To arrive at this destination, we had to take a ferry from the mainland, a journey which lasted
roughly one hour. Fortunately, I was not seasick. When we reached there, to be honest, the
scenery appealed to me a lot, especially the beach. The beach itself was absolutely
breathtaking and the crystal clear water seemed to stretch endlessly to the horizon. In
addition, from a distance, huge waves were crashing onto the shore, which sounded like a
melody. I was so excited that I just wanted to jump into the sea right away.
On the beach, many people were enjoying the scenery, and some were swimming while their
children were making sandcastles. My family quickly checked into the hotel, we changed
our clothes and joined the people there.
Actually, this vacation gave me the chance to relax and all my worries seemed to fall away.
Therefore, I hope that we will be able to enjoy more holidays like this every year.
VOCABULARY
impressed: [adjective] admiring something because it is good or beautiful.

Example: He never quit until he passed the exam, and we were impressed with his
determination.

ferry: [noun] a boat that carries people, vehicles or goods across a river or a short journey by
sea.
Example: Some people take the ferry every day to cross Hong Kong harbour and arrive at
work.
the mainland: [noun] the main area of land of a country – not including any islands near it.
Example: The island is a short journey from the mainland by ferry.
roughly: [adverb] approximately, but not exactly.

Example: I didn’t count them, but there were roughly 50 students in the exam hall.
seasick: [adjective] feeling ill and wanting to vomit when you travel on a boat or ship.
Example: During the storm, most of the passengers on the boat felt seasick and they did not
recover until they reached the mainland.
scenery: [noun] the natural features of an area, such as mountains, forests, rivers, when you are
thinking about them as being attractive to look at.
Example: Many tourists go to Thailand to enjoy the magnificent scenery, especially on the
coast.
breathtaking: [adjective] very exciting or impressive.

Example: My hotel has a breathtaking view of the city – I can see all the famous buildings
from the window of my room.
crystal clear: [adjective] completely clear and bright.

Example: The sea is not polluted on Cat Ba island – it is crystal clear and you can see lots of
beautiful fish.
stretch: [verb] spread over an area of land or sea.

Example: The desert stretches for thousands of kilometres until you reach the sea.
endlessly: [adverb] in a way that seems to have no end.

Example: The road appeared to continue endlessly into the distance.
the horizon: [noun] the furthest point that you can see, where the sky and the land or sea
appear to meet.
Example: When the ship appeared on the horizon, we knew that it had crossed the ocean
safely.
crashing: [verb] hitting something hard while moving and making a lot of noise as a result.
Example: The sea was crashing onto the rocks and it was much too dangerous to swim there.

the shore: [noun] the land along the edge of a sea or ocean.
Example: In some areas of the beach, the shore was littered with rubbish left by tourists.
melody: [noun] a piece of music with a simple, clear tune.

Example: The sound of the birds singing in the morning is so beautiful that it is like a melody.
right away: [adverb] immediately.

Example: I would like you to go right away, because the shops will close very soon.
sandcastle: [noun] a pile of sand made to look like a castle [children make these on the beach].
Example: The children made two big sandcastles and put a flag on top of each one.
checked into: [phrasal verb] arrived and registered at a hotel.

Example: We checked into our hotel and the receptionist gave us the keys to our room.
fall away: [phrasal verb] gradually become smaller or fewer until they disappear.
Example: When I relax with my friends, my worries fall away and I can just enjoy myself.
67. Describe a happy family event from your childhood.

You should say:
what the event was, where it happened: A happy family event that I still remember clearly
from my childhood was making chung cake for Tet holiday at my grandparents’ house.
what you saw and did: When I was small, our family would get together to make chung cake
for Tet holiday. My grandparents had six children; therefore, I had many cousins. And the
great thing was that my cousins and I were around the same age. At that time, we were too
small to do anything, so basically, we played with each other while we watched the adults
prepare the ingredients for the cake. Sometimes, we got to eat the leftover food after all the
cakes were finished. Tet holiday was the only time of the year that we were allowed to stay up
late, one reason why it is so memorable. Although the winter was cold, we all felt cozy
inside; we had so much fun together.
and explain why you remember this event so well: Since my grandfather passed away a
couple of years ago, we stopped our family tradition. In addition, some of my cousins had
already gotten married and had their own families, and some had gone to study abroad.

Consequently, it was very difficult for us to get together like old times. Missing this special
family tradition makes it so unforgettable for me and I hope we can start doing it again in the
future.
VOCABULARY
remember clearly - to see something in your mind with detail from before, to remember
something very well. “I remember very clearly where I was when J.F.K. was shot.”
to be around the same age - to describe when a group of people have similar ages - they are
around the same age. In this context, the person and his cousins were young, so maybe they
were between 4 and 7 years old. “All my classmates who went to the concert were around the
same age.”
basically - used to indicate that a statement summarizes the most important aspects, or gives a
roughly accurate account, of a more complex situation. “So basically, I am one of the best
students in the class.”
leftover food - the food that remains after you have created something with certain ingredients
and don’t need any more of those ingredients or it is the food that is left over after everybody
has already eaten what they wanted. “They said they’d eat the leftover food for lunch
tomorrow.”
to stay up late - to stay awake past your normal bed time. In this context, the child was young
and so staying up until later in the evening was special. “My son wants to stay up late every
night during the summer.”
memorable - when something is easy to remember or when you actually remember it well.
“Her wedding was a memorable event for all.”
felt cozy - to feel nice and warm and good inside. “It felt cozy to snuggle up to my lover in
bed.”
passed away - to die. “My friend’s husband passed away this evening. He had cancer.”
to study abroad - to go to a foreign country to study. “Many Chinese students are studying
abroad these days.”

Consequently - as a consequence of, as a result of something. “My airplane arrived late last
night. Consequently, I didn’t make it to the meeting on time.”
like old times - used to describe when something happens like it used to, in the past. “They
danced and danced, just like old times.”
missing (this event)- to miss something means that you wish it were happening still, but it
isn’t. In this context, he misses getting together with his family to make the special cakes. “I
was missing our family dinners, now that all the kids were away at college.”
unforgettable - something that you can’t forget. “The Taylor Swift concert was unforgettable.”
68.Describe a gift that you recently gave to others

You should say:
When it happened
Who you gave it to
What gift you gave to the person
And explain why you gave this gift to others
ANSWER (Trích từ đề “Describe a gift you gave that took a long time to
choose.”)
Choosing a gift for someone is usually a very difficult task, because you want to
make sure that the person who receives it will like it. For that reason, I always
spend a lot of time picking gifts for my relatives and friends. Today, I am going to
share with you the time when I had to choose a gift for my little sister’s birthday.
It was her 5th birthday and I wanted to give her something memorable and special. I decided
to go to a “Build-a-bear workshop” to buy her a stuffed bear. At this shop, you actually spend
time picking materials to build your furry friend, from the cotton inside to the clothes
outside. You also got to give this teddy bear a heart and a voice recorder, so that when you
squeezed it, it would say whatever you recorded before.
After finishing building the stuffed toy, the store would give him or her a birth
certificate with a name and birthday.
My little sister was so happy when she received the bear. Well, kids always love a
furry friend anyway. However, what was special was that as she grew up, she

understood how much love I had put in the bear when building it for her at the store, so she
came to appreciate the gift even more.
VOCABULARY
pick: [verb] to choose something from a group of things.
Example: The man picked a blue tie from the collection in the shop.
memorable: [adjective] something special, good or unusual and therefore easy

to remember.
Example: I will never forget the memorable holiday that I had in Japan.
workshop: [noun] a place where you can do a practical activity to create

something.
Example: As a student, I attended drama workshops, because I had always loved
acting.
stuffed bear: [noun] a toy in the shape of a bear, filled with cloth and made of
some soft material.
Example: When I was a child, I had a stuffed bear, which I used to keep in my
bedroom.
furry: [adjective] covered with fur – a soft thick mass of hair that grows on the
body of some animals.
Example: People love pandas because they are so furry, with thick black and
white fur all over their body.
get to (+ infinitive): [phrasal verb] to be allowed to do something.

Example: When we visited the football stadium, we got to meet some of the
famous players.
teddy bear: [noun] this is just another name for a stuffed toy bear.
squeeze: [verb] to press something firmly, especially with your fingers.

Example: Every time you clean your teeth, you squeeze the tube of toothpaste.
appreciate: [verb] to recognise the good qualities in something or somebody.

Example: At school, I appreciated the help that I received from my teachers.
69. Describe an area of subject that you are interested in (such as physics, mathematics)

You should say:
What it is
When you started to become interested in it
What you have learned from it
And explain why you have interest in it
ANSWER
I’d like to describe a subject that I was particularly keen on when I was at school. It was
History. I have to admit that I didn’t like History at first, as there were so many numbers,
events and dates to remember that it used to take me hours to learn all of them by heart to be
well-prepared for the exam. However, Mrs. Huong, my history teacher when I was at grade
10, breathed new life into this subject and it started to grow on me. I‘ve learned a lot from
the subject. Apart from historical events which help me know what the world was like and how
it worked, learning history has also brought me closer to the culture of my country. Above all,
I think, History has taught me to appreciate the present while drawing lessons from the past.
Nevertheless, I wouldn’t have been so much in love with this subject without my teacher, Mrs.
Huong. The way she delivered the lessons was so enthusiastic and passionate that it inspired
me to catch her every word / absorb all information given by her, and somehow, I fell in love
with History. Now, even though History is neither my major nor even taught at University, I
still have the habit of reading historical books whenever having free time.
VOBULARY
learn by heart (học thuộc lòng) [idiom]

to learn something so well that it can be written or recited without thinking
Example: There were well known definitions which we had to learn by heart and
two of them have remained in my memory for nearly 60 years
well-prepared (chuẩn bị tốt) [adj] suitably prepared in advance

Example: 17-18 year old school leavers should be well-prepared for work.
breathe new life into ( mang lại nguồn năng lượng mới, cuộc sống mới ) [idiom]: bring ideas
and energy (to something)

Example: Changes in the performance have breathed new life into a show that
seemed ready to close.
grow on sb (dần được ai đó yêu thích, chấp nhận) [v] become increasingly liked or appreciated
Example: At first the show seemed kind of weird, but it grew on us
draw the lesson (from something) (rút ra bài học từ cái gì)[idiom] learn something from past
mistakes
Example: After the loss in the previous game, the team draw the lesson.
deliver (truyền đạt, truyền tải) [v] to express in word

Example: Whether students are captivated from the beginning or not depends
much on the way the lecture is delivered.
passionate (đam mê, say mê) [adj] arising from passion

Example: She is a teacher who is passionate about her subject
have the habit of ( có thói quen làm gì) [idiom] do something usually or often
Example: I don’t have the habit of getting involved in other people’s arguments
70. Describe a creative inventor or musician

You should say:
Who this person is
What this person does
how you knew this person
and explain why you think this person is creative
ANSWER
I am going to talk about a creative person who I really admire. That person is Albert Einstein -
one of the most well-known physics scientists in the world. He was born in 1879 in a Jewish
family in Germany.
He was a theorical physicist and is now recognized as the father of modern physics.
Above all, he was the founder of the “Theory of Relativity”, which became an
important contribution to the science of mankind. It was to be the biggest

achievement of his life. In 1921, he was awarded the “Nobel Physics Prize”. He was a prolific
writer and published about 300 scientific articles covering150 topics as well during his career.
I came across a new biography about him on the internet and there was a lot of
interesting information which really inspired me a lot. His childhood was not carefree as I
had thought. He had a problem learning how to talk until he was about 8 years old. Besides,
because of his unconventional character, he tended to be bullied and teased a lot, however, he
ignored all these taunts and concentrated on doing experiments in the laboratory.
What I really admire him is how passionately he worked and what he contributed to physics
and our understanding of the world. He lived and worked with passion and the enthusiasm all
his life, and he is a shining example for me to follow.
VOCABULARY
theoretical physicist: [noun] a person who studies some branch of physics,

using mathematical models to understand, explain and predict nature. This is
in contrast to a physicist who uses experiments to test ideas.
Example: People who study the world through building mathematical models
are called theoretical physicists.
founder: [noun] a person who creates an organization, company or idea.

Example: Bill Gates is the founder of Microsoft.
relativity: [noun] the word for how things only have importance in relation to
other things.
Example: Einstein’s Theory of Relativity says that the way that anything
[except light] moves through time and space depends on the position and
movement of someone who is watching.
prolific: [adjective] producing many written works.

Example: Picasso was a prolific artist who produced many paintings.
came across: [phrasal verb] met or found something/someone by chance.

Example: While I was looking for my passport, I came across some old
photos from my schooldays.
biography: [noun] the story of a person’s life written by another person.

Example: I have just read a new biography about the life of Shakespeare.

inspired: [verb] gave me the confidence and enthusiasm to do something well.
Example: My father inspired me to follow his example and to study hard at
school.
carefree: [adjective] having no worries or problems.

Example: After she retired from work, she had a carefree life with no
reponsibilies.
unconventional: not following what is done or considered normal or

acceptable by most people.
Example: The normal solutions to traffic congestion have not been effective,
so a more unconventional approach is necessary.
bullied: [verb] frightened or hurt a weaker person.

Example: My son was bullied by the older boys at school.
teased: [verb] laughed at somebody and made jokes about them – sometimes
in an unfriendly way.
Example: The boy was teased at school because he was fat.
taunts: [noun] insulting remarks intended to make someone angry or upset.

Example: Racist taunts were often shouted at black football players in the
past.
shining example: [noun] excellent and inspiring example.

Example: President Obama is a shining example for young, black people in
America who want to have a successful career.
71. Describe a time when you were 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.
ANSWER

Today I’m going to talk about a time when I was extremely busy. Well, that was
when my husband went on a business trip to India, so he was absent from home for about a
fortnight. I found myself totally overloaded with work then because I had to do a lot of things
on my own during that time. For instance, I had to take the kids to school and pick them up to
take them home in the evening, prepare the meals and do the washing-up. What’s more, I still
had to work for 8 hours as an accountant and could not leave the office until 5p.m. These
things seemed to be impossible tasks for me.
So, I decided to seek help from my family and friends. I asked my mother to pick up the kids
and look after them until I came back. Luckily it didn’t matter to my
mother. She always gave me unconditional love and help, and the kids were also
happy to be with their grandmother. My friends introduced me to a part-time home
help who was really nice and trustworthy to do the housework in the evening.
Thanks to that, in spite of being busy when my husband was away, I was not
exhausted and everything went well. As the saying goes: “A friend in need is a
friend indeed”, experiencing that hectic time made me realise that, besides my
family, there are so many friends around who are willing to help me, so I am not
alone.
VOCABULARY
Extremely: (adv) an intensifier, like very, highly, to a high degree or extent

Example: She behaved extremely badly.
Absent from (adj): not in the place, not present

Example: I was absent from work yesterday, because I had to see my doctor.
A fortnight (noun) two weeks.

Example: We will spend a fortnight in Thailand next month.
Overloaded with work: having an excessive amount of work, the amount of

work to be done is too heavy
Example: He complained that he was overloaded with work because his boss had
given him a lot of extra jobs to do.
On my own: alone, by myself, without any help or support

Example: She lives alone, so she always has to do many things on her own.
Pick them up (home): take somebody home after work or school

Example: Can you pick me up at 6? Because I leave work at 6 and have no

motorbike.
Do the washing-up: to wash, clean the dishes, saucepans, knives, or anything

related to the meal preparation.
Example: After a very delicious dinner, she helped her mother to do the washingup.
Look after: to keep an eye on something/somebody, pay attention to

somebody/something with care
Example: She asked her husband to look after the kids in the garden.
Unconditional (adj)/: without condition, not limited by condition. Unconditional

love means that you will love someone no matter what he does, or no matter what
happens, your love will continue.
Example: The mother’s love for her child is unconditional.
Home help (noun) a person whose job it is to help with housework.

Example: When I started to work full-time, I employed a home help to keep the
house clean and tidy.
Trustworthy (adj): reliable, honest. A trustworthy person is someone you can

trust, and who never tells lies.
Example: My assistant is a trustworthy person and so he looks after my business
when I am away.
Exhausted (adj) extremely tired, having no energy or strength to do something

Example: Because he had worked without a break for 12 hours, he was finally
exhausted.
72. Describe an advertisement you have seen.

You should say:
What the advertisement is
What it is for
And explain how you think about it.
ANSWER:
Well, I’d like to talk about a mooncake commercial that I saw yesterday during
dinner. It made me feel quite homesick.
As you may know, the Mid-Autumn Festival is coming and this time is my favourite time of
the year. One interesting thing I found is that most of the ads for this traditional festival are so

touching and meaningful. Of course, the ad I mentioned is no exception. It starts with the
image of a little girl missing her dad, who’s in the army now and has been far from home for a
long time. On the Mid-Autumn day, while all of her family members, except her father, are
gathering around the five-fruit tray, celebrating the festival, she looks so sad hugging the
Teddy Bear he gave her last year. Suddenly, the door opens and her dad comes in with a
mooncake box, she bursts into tears, then he holds her tightly in his arms. At the end of the
ad, the whole family is enjoying mooncakes happily together.
The meaning of the Mid-Autumn festival is for family members to gather, encouraging
affection for children and expressing gratitude to the older generation, so for me, this
advertisement successfully conveyed the message of family reunion.
As I now live far from my family, it made me want to come back home right away
and enjoy the taste of my favourite mooncakes with my parents. Actually when I saw the ad,
my eyes filled with tears too, just like the little girl. Normally, I don’t really like watching ads
on TV, but if all the commercials can be that meaningful, maybe I’ll change my habit.
VOCABULARY
commercial (Quảng cáo) [n] an advertisement on the radio or TV

Example: They’re looking for actors for a phone commercial.
homesick [n] sad because you are away from your home and family
Example: After spending a month in the USA, I felt homesick for Vietnam.
touching (Cảm động) [adj] making you feel sympathy or pity

Example: It was a touching story, which moved many of us to tears.
miss [v] feel sad because you can no longer see somebody
Example: When I first went to university, I missed my sisters a lot.
hug [v] put your arms around somebody and hold them tightly
Example: Before I got on the train, I said goodbye to my parents and I hugged
them for a few moments.
burst into tears (Òa khóc) [expression] begin to cry suddenly

Example: The children burst into tears on hearing about the death of their dog.
affection (Tình cảm, cảm xúc) [n] the feeling of liking/loving somebody very
much and caring about them

Example: Children need lots of love and affection.
gratitude (Sự biết ơn) [n] the feeling of being grateful and wanting to express
your thanks
Example: The boss expressed his gratitude to all the staff for their hard work
during the year.
convey (Truyền) [v] to make ideas or feelings known to somebody

Example: I will be late for the appointment, so please convey my apologies to the
customer.
reunion (Đoàn tụ, sum họp) [n] the act of people coming together, after they have been apart
for some time
Example: Christmas is a time of reunion, when family and friends have the
chance to see each other again.
73. Describe a website that you like to visit.

You should say:
What the website is
What it is used for
When you used it
And explain why you think it was interesting.
Today, I am going to tell you about one website which I’m really interested in. It’s
name is m.ebay.com.
It is an e-commerce website used for online shopping purposes. This website

advertises various items classified by categories such as fashion, electronics, and
motors. It allows people to order products, and make transactions online.
I always give priority to shopping online whenever I have spare time instead of
going to stores or supermarkets. So, this website is very handy for me as I can take
advantage of my mobile phone or computer with an Internet connection to access it
and purchase what I need.
I find this website very appealing due to its good layout and attractive images of
products. There is a box for me to enter what items I’m looking for so I can avoid
browsing items unnecessarily, as I’m able to find quickly the things I need. After that the
items I have bought will be delivered right to my door so I can save a lot of time. Not only

that, there is always the chance to get a good deal and discounts as there are various
promotion programs.
This website has important advantages for me, such as convenience and the benefits of saving
time and money. Now it plays a useful role in my daily life. In the future I will continue to visit
the site and of course recommend it to my friends.
VOCABULARY
E-commerce: the business of buying and selling goods and services on the
internet
Example: Ebay is an e-commerce website used for online shopping purposes.
Transaction: a piece of business that is done between people, especially an act of buying or
selling
Example: You can call your bank and carry out a transaction using a Touch-
Tone phone.
Give priority to: something that you think is more important than other things
and should be dealt with first
Example: The hospital gives priority to those patients who require urgent medical
attention.
Handy: convenient
Example: My flat is very handy for the shops and the park.
Appealing: attractive or interesting

Example: Brightly colored packaging made the pens especially appealing to
children.
Layout: the structure of a website rather than its styling

Example: This page uses a 2 – column layout with one sidebar to the left of the
main content area.
Browse: the act of looking through a number of things in a book, a store or

online
Example: I have only browsed through the new book on dinosaurs, but I intend
to read it fully this weekend.
Get a good deal: make a good agreement to buy or sell something

Example: I got a good deal on my new car – I bought it for half the price that the
man was asking for it.
74. Describe a time you needed to use imagination

You should say ：
why you needed to use imagination
What the difficulties were
and explain how you felt about it
ANSWER
Today I’m going to tell you about a time when I had to make use of my imagination.
When I was a sophomore in high school, one of my literature assignments was to

recreate a short play that is based on a real book. The class was divided into small
teams, each had to choose a book of different genres, ranging from comedy to
romance to even horror. Since it was going to be assessed, everyone was required to take an
active part in the project.
This task was particularly demanding in using imagination as we had to set up as

lively a stage as possible to draw the attention of the audience. Enjoying a book can be easy
but it’s tough to actually act out a written scene, even for professional
actors. Therefore, as the stage director and one of cast members, I really needed to
make the best of my creativity to produce a perfect play.
Besides having to be inventive, we were also working against the clock since only 2 weeks
were given to prepare. It was tricky to come up with a complete plot and make time for group
rehearsals in such a short period - not to mention having to find the appropriate costumes and
stage props.
Despite the pressure I had to deal with, I felt a great sense of achievement because our play
was well-received by the teacher and other classmates. I guess I can regard this as a challenge
for not only my imagination but also for my team-working skills.
In the future, I hope I will get the chance to be involved in other exciting projects like this one.
VOCABULARY
To make use of sth [expression]: to use something

Eg: The students should make use of the books they are given.
Sophomore [n]: a student in the second year of high school or college

Eg: She's a sophomore in high school.
Assignment [n]: a specified task or amount of work given

Eg: The students were given a homework assignment.
Genre [n]: a particular type or category of literature or art

Eg: This book is a classic of the mystery genre.
To be assessed [expression]: to be judged, rated or scored

Eg: Students will be assessed based on their attendance and scores.
Demanding [adj]: requiring much time, attention, or effort

Eg: I have heard it is one of the most demanding courses at the university.
To draw attention [expression]: to make people notice

Eg: A good presenter must be able to draw listeners’ attention.
To act out sth [expression]: to present something in action

Eg: Children act out what they read, which makes the lesson more fun.
To make the best of sth [expression]: to try to think and act in a positive way
when you have to accept a bad situation
Eg: The room they've given us is too small really, but we'll just have to make
the best of it.
Inventive [adj]: creative or imaginative

Eg: They have given their new company an inventive name, which
customers are sure to remember.
To work against the clock [expression]: to work very fast because

you know you only have a limited period of time to do something
Eg: Scientists were workingagainst the clock to collect specimens before the
volcano erupted again.
To make time for sth [expression]: to allow time for something

Eg: I try to make time for my family at weekends.

Prop [n]: something used in creating or enhancing a desired effect,
especially in the theatre or in films
Eg: There was a team responsible for building stage props to make the
background more real.
A sense of achievement [expression]: a proud feeling of having done

something difficult and worthwhile
Eg: He felt a sense of achievement having won the competition.
Well-received [adj]: getting a good reaction from people

Eg: ‘Gone with the Wind’ was one of the most well-received movies of all time.
75. Describe a tall building you like or dislike.

You should say:
Where it is.
What is the appearance of it.
Explain why you like or dislike it.
ANSWER
I’m going to describe a high-rise building in my neighborhood. It’s called Hoabinh Green
City, located in Minhkhai Street, Hanoi.
Unlike other modern blocks, which are usually huge glass towers, the building is painted
yellow, although it’s named Green City. The structure of Hoabinh is not dissimilar to that of
most buildings in Hanoi nowadays, with the bottom half used as a shopping center and the top
half occupied by apartments.
One feature that makes the building unique is that its trade center offers Vietnamese products
only, with a view to promoting domestic products to Hanoi people and also to supporting
national manufacturers. At the entrance of the building, if you look to the right, you can easily
find a store named V+ bread, which serves traditonal bread, a very famous street food of
Vietnam, to people who just do not have enough time to go inside, so they line up waiting to
pay.
• (Like) In spite of its prime location, however, Hoabinh Green City offers a
reasonable price for its apartments, which are affordable for many middle-income families.

From the building, we can look out to the Red River, as well as Vinhtuy Bridge, and enjoy the
breathtaking scenery. So, if you are planning to find a place with a beautiful and peaceful
view, or simply want to buy something traditional, Hoabinh Green City may be a good choice.
• (Dislike) What I don’t like about Hoabinh Green City, however, is that its design is
neither eye-catching nor original. In fact, I personally find that it resembles Times City, a
modern building nearby. Moreover, the paint color doesn’t match its modern structures, which
makes the building somehow old-fashioned. And, the quality, as well as diversity of products
on sale do not meet the expectations of most customers. So, I guess it’s the reason why the
building doesn’t attract as much attention from the public as expected.
VOCABULARY
high-rise: very tall and having a lot of floors
Example: These high-rise apartment blocks were built 20 years ago.
blocks: tall buildings that contain flats or offices

Example: The university science blocks are the tallest buildings on the campus.
huge glass towers: high-level buildings with the exterior made of glass
Example: The design of the Lotte Department Store is just a huge glasstower, but it definitely
stands out and has become a famous landmark in the city.
dissimilar: not the same

Example: The English and Vietnamese languages are completely dissimilar to each other.
feature: A prominent or distinctive part, quality, or characteristic

Example: Large glass facades have been a familiar feature of modern buildings for a long
time.
Domestic products: goods that are manufactured within a country, by manufacturers of that
country.
Example: Famous by Boo is a clothing brand that offers domestic products.
serve: to provide food, entertainment or service

Example: Boo Cafe serves coffee and meals to many customers who call in when they go to
the store to buy clothes.
prime: excellent, the best available

Example: The store has a prime position at the entrance of the shopping centre.
Offer a reasonable price: sell with a price that is not too high, and affordable.

Example: If a business aims to achieve sustainable development, it should manage to offer its
customers a reasonable price.
middle-income families: families in which the members have salaries which are not very
high, but also not too low
Example: He sells cars at affordable prices, mainly to middle-income families.
breathtaking scenery: very beautiful and spectacular landscape

Example: The beaches in Thailand are famous for their breathtaking scenery.
eye-catching: tending to attract attention, good-looking

Example: The signing of this contract was the result of many meetings to build an eye-
catching tower against the skyline of Riyadh.
resemble: look like another person or thing

Example: So many modern buildings resemble each other.
match: look good together

Example: When choosing clothes, it is common belief that we should not mix pink items with
yellow ones, as these two colours do not match.
meet expectations: be as good as expected

Example: We had heard so many good things about the new restaurant, but the food didn’t
meet our expectations at all.
attract attention: make people notice something

Example: The advertisement was designed to attract the attention of young people interested
in fashion.
the public: the community/ the people as the whole

Example: In a survey, members of the public were asked about their shopping habits.
76. Describe a wild animal

You should say:
What it looks like
Where you can see it
What it likes to eat or do

Why you like it
ANSWER
I would like to tell you about an opportunity that I met a white tiger which is one of the star
attractions in Singapore Zoo during my last summer vacation.
I was recommended to see white tiger first due to its rarity and uncommon beauty. Its habitat is
landscaped to resemble a dense jungle. I was truly attracted and felt excited at the first sight
by its gorgeous appearance. This giant cat has blue eyes, pink nose, and creamy white fur
covered with brown stripes.
In the wild, this animal’s diet consists of monkeys, birds and other animals as it is a carnivore.
It also prefers killing young, weak or old animals because they cannot run as fast and are often
left alone by their herd. In the zoo, it is fed by animal’s meat even including imported meat
namely Kangaroo’s meat.
At the beginning I felt scared a little bit because tigers are well - known for a dangerous
species as well as the King of animals. However after encountering this white tiger, I changed
my mind since it was very cute and friendly to human.
As tigers in general and white tigers in particular are endangered species, I suggest that
people should make a great effort to preserve them.
VOCABULARY
Star attraction: famous attraction
Ex: white tiger is one of the star attractions in Singapore Zoo
Landscape: to change the appearance of an area of land, especially next to a building or road
so that it looks more like natural countryside
Ex: Its habitat is landscaped to resemble a dense jungle
Resemble: to look like or be like someone or something

Ex: After the earthquake, the city resembled a battlefield
Gorgeous: very beautiful and attractive; giving pleasure and enjoyment

Ex: you look gorgeous!
Carnivore: any animal that eats meat

Ex: lions and tigers are carnivores

Endangered species: a type of animal or plant that might stop existing because there are only
a few of that type alive
Ex: white tiger is an endangered species
Make a great effort: the physical or mental energy that you need to do something; something
that takes a lot of energy
Ex: You should make a great effort to complete this assignment.
77. Describe a small business that you would like to open, (or, start or run or own or
have) if you had the chance.
You should say:

What this business would be
Where it would be located
What people you would hire as employees
And explain why you’d like to have this small business.
ANSWER:
Well, if I were to talk about my dream business, a small book café would definitely be the first
thing that springs to my mind right now. Actually, I’ve been thinking about it for a long time
as I always enjoy reading books and drinking coffee in a tranquil space. When I get enough
money together, I will start my own business for sure.
My desire is to create a place for people who are seeking serenity and trying to escape from
the hustle and bustle of city life, so I would look for a location in a quiet street, maybe around
the Old Quarter. My café would be decorated elaborately with lights and houseplants, creating
a calm, homely atmosphere for the customers. Bookshelves filled with books of every kind
would run along the walls and in the corners and everyone would be welcome to choose a
book from the shelves to enjoy while drinking their coffee.
Like many other coffee shops, I would hire students to work as part-time employees at my
book café, especially ones who share the same passion for books as I do. They could earn
their living in a comfortable and friendly working environment, and I would aim to nurture
their love of books, so that their work would become a pleasure.

Owning my own book café has been my lifelong dream. To read books is to broaden one’s
horizons, and to drink coffee is to enjoy life. When I reach a certain point in my life where I
feel satisfied enough with my career, I will resign and run my small café. I believe that one
day I will make my dream come true.
VOCABULARY
cafe (Quán cafe) [n] a place where you can buy drinks and simple meals
Example: Every Saturday, we drink coffee and eat cakes in our local cafe.
spring to mind (Bỗng nhiên/ngay lập tức hiện lên trong đầu) [expression] to appear suddenly
or immediately in your thoughts
Example: The Harry Potter novels immediately spring to mind as an example of recent best-
selling books.
tranquil (Thanh bình, tĩnh lặng) [adj] quiet and peaceful

Example: She led a tranquil life in the countryside.
get money together [expression] save money to buy something

Example: I want to buy a new car, as soon as I can get enough money together.
serenity (Sự thanh bình, tĩnh lặng) [n] the quality of being calm and peaceful
Example: The hotel offers a haven of peace and serenity away from the hustle and bustle of
the city.
hustle and bustle (Hoạt động bận rộn, ồn ào) [expression] busy and noisy activity
Example: He wanted a little cottage far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
elaborately (Cẩn thận, tỉ mỉ) [adverb] in a carefully prepared, detailed and organised way
Example: The hotel lobby was elaborately decorated in preparation for the President’s visit.
homely [adj] making you feel comfortable, as if you were in your own home
Example: The restaurant was homely, with just a few tables and a relaxed atmosphere.
run along [phrasal verb] be in line with

Example: An electric fence ran along the top of the wall to protect the building.
passion (Niềm đam mê) [n] a very strong feeling of some emotion – love, hatred, anger,
enthusiasm
Example: She spoke with great passion about the natural beauty of her homeland.

earn a living (Kiếm sống) [expression] to make money in order to support yourself financially
Example: The wages are so low in this city that I have to do three jobs just in order to earn a
living.
nurture (Nuôi dưỡng) [v] to help somebody/something to develop and be successful

Example: My father nurtured a love of art in me and nothing gives me more pleasure than
visiting an art gallery.
horizon (Tầm nhìn) [n] the limit of your desires, knowledge or interests
Example: She wanted to travel and experience other cultures in order to broaden her horizons.
resign (Từ chức) [v] to officially tell somebody that you are leaving your job, leaving an
organisation
Example: He resigned as manager after 8 years, in order to spend more time with his family.
78. r Describe a time you missed an important appointment for something

You should say:
when and where it happened
what the appointment was for

what happened when you missed it
and explain how you felt about the appointment.
ANSWER
I’m going to describe the time I was late for my first job interview. It happened in the fall of
2012, as I recall, which is when I was a sophomore. I had always dreamed of becoming a
marketer, so I’d already joined a marketing course and after that, I was ready to apply for an
internship in this field.
The company I applied to was a start-up in education technology. Specifically, they offered
online English courses to those who wanted to brush upon their English speaking skills. They
were looking for a marketing intern, and as I was interested in both English and marketing, I
applied for this position.
I sent them my CV and was accepted, so we made an appointment for an interview.

However, when the day came, I was late for the interview because I was lost. I can still
recollect the panic that I felt, and I finally managed to get to the interview, but 30 minutes
late. “I am so doomed,” I thought, and the next thing I knew, the interviewer just told me I was
late for the interview without prior notice so regrettably I was rejected.
That was a painful experience for me, and since then I’ve tried my best not to be late for any
appointments ever again.
VOCABULARY
Sophomore [n] a student in the second year of a couse of study at a college or university:
e.g. Most universities provide internship opportunities for their third-year students, or even
sophomores.
Marketer [n]a person whose job it is to promote and sell the products of a company in the best
possible way:
e.g. As a marketer and developer of software, I earn a lot of money these days.
Start-up [n] a company that is just beginning to operate:

e.g. His company was a successful start-up in the field of bio-engineering.
Education technology [expression] education using technology to deliver knowledge, using

computers and projectors in class:
e.g. Education technology has become really popular these days.
To brush up on something [phrasal verb] to quickly improve a skill, especially when you
have not used it for a long time:
e.g. I must brush up on my Spanish before I go to Spain.
To recollect [v] to remember something, especially when you make an effort to remember it:
e.g. I recollect all the details of my flat in Paris.
Panic [n] a feeling of fear or anxiety that prevents you from thinking clearly:
e.g. Office workers fled in panic as the fire started to spread.
Doomed [adj] certain to fail, die, or be destroyed:

e.g. This is a doomed city – the volcano will erupt very soon.
Prior [adj] happening or existing before something else or before a particular time:
e.g. Please give us prior notice if you need an evening meal.

To reject [v] to refuse to accept, use, or believe something or someone:
e.g. The prime minister rejected the suggestion that it was time for him to resign.
79. 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
And explain why you want to work in that place.
ANSWER
Today, I would like to talk about a place in foreign countries where I would like to work. It is
Melbourne, the second largest city in Australia which has become home for millions of people
from various countries around the world. In Melbourne, I would like to work for an
environmental NGO, as my specialty at/in university is Environmental Resources. So, right
after I finish my studies in Vietnam, I will go to Melbourne to apply for a job there.
Well, the reasons why I would like to work in Melbourne are quite simple. First, I have a lot of
friends and relatives who live and work in Melbourne. They can help me whenever I need.
They also tell me that the community of Vietnamese overseas is very large in Melbourne. So,
the multi-cultural challenge won’t be a big problem for me. And what's more, like Sydney,
Tokyo or some other cities in the world, Melbourne is a 'liveable city' due to / because of its
high ranking in education, research and healthy lifestyle/ way of life. So I think that to live,
study or work there will be an interesting experience.
VOCABULARY
Various (khác nhau, nhiều loại): [adjective] different, a variety of, many types of.
Example: My students come from various countries in the world, such as India, Laos,
Thailand, etc.
Specialty (chuyên môn, chuyên ngành):[noun] focus, special field of study Example: Marie
Cury was a well-known scientist with her specialty in radiation
Apply for a job/position(nộp đơn xin, đăng ký xin việc):[verb] to enroll in, to write a letter
asking for a job Example: She submited a letter to apply for that post/ position

Relatives (họ hàng, người nhà) Someone who is close in the family branch, such as aunt,
uncle, cousin, and so on. Example: Tet holiday is an occasion for us to visit our relatives'
houses and to give them best wishes
Vietnamese overseas (Việt kiều)[noun] Vietnamese people who live in foreign countries
Example: Each year, the Vietnamese overseas contribute a large amount of money to the
country's development.
Multi-cultural challenge( thử thách, khó khăn về đa văn hóa) [adj+n] difficulties caused by
the clash between so many cultures Example:Australia is an example of multicultural country
Liveable (đáng sống, sống được) [adjective] + city: a city with favorable conditions for living
Example: This city is a liveable place for the poor
Ranking (xếp hạng, thứ bậc, chất lượng)[noun] level, qualification Example: The ranking of
education of Vietnam is still fairly low in the region
Healthy ( lành mạnh, khỏe mạnh) [adjective] good for health, good for operation Example:
Investors require a healthy environment for their business activities in Vietnam
80. Describe an antique or some other old thing that your family has kept for a long time.
You should say:

what it is
how (or when) your family first got this thing
how long your family has kept it
and explain why this thing is important to your family.
ANSWER:
Today, I am going to share with you an old possession that my family has kept for a long time.
It is an antique terra-cotta dish, which is displayed in an honoured position in the living
room.
This old dish originated from feudal times in Vietnam, although I am not sure of the year
exactly. It might have belonged to the Nguyen Dynasty. It is made from pottery material with
some small artificial fissures, and it was my grandfather’s favourite thing when he was still
alive. There is a village picture painted in blue in the centre of the dish.
When I was a child, my grandfather used to tell me the story of this dish. His close friend gave
it to him to celebrate his house-warming in the past. They had been companions in arms for

a long time, so that was the reason why he really treasured their ties and that gift as a
reminder of their friendship.
There is a lot of other modern furniture arranged in my house nowadays, however, this antique
object is still a treasured possession for each member of my family. We have kept this antique
dish for over 30 years, even when my grandpa passed away and left it for my family.
Whenever I look at this dish, it always reminds me of my grandfather as a fond memento.
VOCABULARY
possession: [noun] something that you own.
Example: When leaving the plane, please make sure that you have all your possessions with
you.
antique: [adjective] old and often valuable

Example: I have an antique table in my living room which is about 200 years old.
terracotta: [noun] material of a red-brown colour, used to make pots.

Example: My mother still cooks using traditional terracotta pots.
honoured: [adjective] very respected, showing respect for something.

Example: The President was an honoured guest at the ceremony.
feudal: [adjective] describing a time in the past when given land and protection by a rich
person, and had to work and fight for him in return.
Example: Life in feudal times in Vietnam was very hard for poor people who worked on the
land.
dynasty: [noun] a series of rulers of a country who all belong to the same family.
Example: Pottery from the time of the Ming Dynasty in China is very valuable.
pottery: [noun] pots or dishes, usually made by hand from a type of earth called clay and made
hard by baking in an oven.
Example: I learned to make traditional dishes by hand by going to a pottery class.
fissures: [noun] long cracks in something.

Example: The rocks had many fissures, some of which were very deep.
house-warming: [noun] a party given by someone who has moved into a new house.
Example: My new neighbours invited our family to their house-warming party.

companions-in-arms: [noun] people who have been soldiers, fighting together.
Example: My two uncles were companions-in-arms during World War 2.
treasure: [verb] to have or keep something that you love and is very valuable to you.
Example: Thank you for your gift. I will always treasure it.
ties: [noun] strong connections between people, especially friendships or family relationships.
Example: She continues to have close ties with her old school friends, and she often visits or
calls them.
fond: [adjective] kind, happy and loving [when used before a noun].
Example: I have fond memories of my years in London.
memento: [noun] a thing that you have which reminds you of a person or place.
Example: We returned home with some mementos of our holiday in China.
81. Describe a café you like.

You should say
Where it is located
How often you visit it
And explain why you like it
I’m going to describe a café that I’ve been to recently; the name is Meow Coffee and it’s on
Tay Son Street, Hanoi.
I think you could easily recognize it just from the name that this coffee shop offers you
many kinds of drinks together with the chance of pampering the cats. I’m a cat person so this
place is like heaven to me. I’ve only been there twice; the first time was with one of my friends
and the second time all by myself.
I felt like I was in love the first time I went to Meow Coffee. You could see the cats sleeping
or playing with each other so happily and comfortably. The first cat I saw on my first visit was
a British Short Hair; it was orange, looking so grumpy but cute. He was sound asleep on a
stool, and didn’t even care a bit even if the guests entered and started to lightly pet him.
There are maybe dozens of cats in there together with some cute dogs that are really nice to
people. The place feels cozy and has a nice smell; it’s also very clean, in my opinion, for a
place that has pets. The owner has decorated the coffee shop with toys
and supplied some particular facilities to take care of the pets, and also a written set of rules
with cute images on how to pamper the pets.

I had a really great time there, enjoying the drinks and playing along with the cute cats. I
brought an assignment to work on the second time I visited this place, and the cats were so
nice: they didn’t bother me, some of them just lay or sat beside me or climbed into my lap and
slept there, didn’t even move an inch.
I would recommend this place for any animal lovers, especially cat people. I will definitely
go to Meow Coffee again if I have time.
VOCABULARY:
Easily recognize [phrase]- to be able to know someone or something easily because you have
seen or heard him or her or experienced it before.
e.g. Doctors can now easily recognize the symptoms of different diseases.
Pamper [verb] (nuông chiều) to give someone/animal special treatment, making him/her/it as
comfortable as possible and giving them whatever they want
e.g. She pampered her dogs with the finest steak and salmon.
Cat person [noun] (người yêu mèo) a person who adores cats
e.g. Anne is a cat person; she yells happily whenever she sees a cat and immediately starts
petting it.
Feel like they/he / she are /is in love [phrase] - to feel attracted to someone and begin to love
them:
e.g. When they met they felt like they were in love for the first time in their lives.
Grumpy [adjective] (cáu kỉnh) bad-tempered and sulky

e.g. He’s grumpy because he hasn’t heard from you for, like, ages.
Pet [verb] (vuốt ve) touch animal gently and kindly with hands
e.g. Our dogs love to be petted and tickled behind the ears.
Cozy [adjective] (ấm cúng) giving a feeling of comfort, warmth, and relaxation
e.g. They cater to people who want a safe and cozy place to relax after work.
Recommend sth - to suggest that someone or something would be good or suitable for a
particular job or purpose, or to suggest that a particular action should be done:
e.g. I can recommend the chicken in mushroom sauce - it's delicious.
82. Describe a plan you made in your life (except work or study)
You should say
What it is

When you have the plan
Who you have told the plan to
And explain why you want to do this.
When I was in second year at university, my friends and I had some free time on our hands so
we decided to do something special besides studying. And so we came up with a fundraising
plan.
Our plan was to run a nonprofit campaign. We were supposed to grow some little trees
together, and then give one of those trees to each person who donated money, books or clothes
for our campaign. Then we would give those donations to children and the poor in need. The
purpose was to help poor people and to raise people’s awareness of the need for trees and
environmental protection as well.
We were a group of four. At first, I was in two minds about whether or not to invite a girl
called Ann to join us. She is a creative person, she always thinks outside the box, but she is
also a bit capricious. She will never apply herself like we do, and will give up as soon as
something unpleasant happens. But my friends insisted on inviting her, so I had to agree with
them. Not unexpectedly, when we ran into some trouble, she was the first one to give up.
More than that, she told other people in my class that we took donated money, books and other
stuff for ourselves. She upset my plan with her false stories. I haven’t considered her as a
friend since then. And I’ve carried out all of my plans on my own, and never trusted any other
person anymore.
Vocabulary
1. Time on our hands [idiom]: to have spare time when you have not planned or arranged to
do anything
Eg: The class was cancelled so, as we had some time on our hands, we decided to take a walk
in the park.
2. Fundraising [noun]: the act of collecting or producing money for a particular purpose,
especially for a charity
Eg: The dinner is a fundraising event for the museum.
3. In two minds [idiom]: If you are in two minds about something, you have difficulty
deciding what to do
Eg: I'm in two minds about whether or not to accept the offer.
4. Think outside the box [idiom]: think differently, unconventionally, or from a new
perspective

Eg: You won't come up with good ideas until you think outside the box.
5. Capricious [adjective]: it describes a kind of person who becomes passionate to do

something in the first place, but soon gets bored or lazy about it
Eg: She seems to have a new hobby each week and she is too capricious to remain interested
in one thing for too long.
6. Apply one’s self [idiom]: to work hard and diligently at something

Eg: She applied herself to her work and the time passed very rapidly.
7. Run into [phrasal verb]: to experience an unexpected problem

Eg: During the exam, I ran into difficulties and I failed to answer all the questions.
8. Upset one’s plan [idiom]: to ruin someone’s plan

Eg: I hope it doesn't upset your plans if I'm late for the meeting.
83. Describe a shop opened in your hometown

You should say
where the shop is
what items it sells
why you go there
ANSWER
Well, I’m not a shopaholic, so there´s no particular shop that has made a special impression on
me. There’s only one exception – that’s a shop called Vinmart +, which was opened in my
hometown 2 months ago.
The shop is located at one of the prime spots for retailing. It is located right beside my
previous primary school, which is only 1km away from my house. I have to say that this shop
makes its mission to satisfy all customer needs anytime, anywhere. As well as meeting the
customers’ demand for necessary daily goods like other shops, it also supplies fresh
vegetables, fruit and meat of a high quality at reasonable prices. These products have clearly-
marked sources of origin and are strictly controlled under the general process of the entire
system.

This shop is in a chain of retail shops under Vingroup, which is recognized as one of the most
dynamic and successful companies in Vietnam, well-positioned for international integration
and comparable to the best regional and global competitors. Therefore, I suppose there’s no
doubt about its quality. Actually, quality assurance is the most important benefit of shopping
here. And the quality of service is excellent as well. To the best of my recollection, 2 weeks
ago, when I came to buy some snacks, I met a middle-aged woman with her son at Vinmart.
She said to the staff that she only went window shopping to pamper her son, who always
liked visiting supermarkets and shops to see things. The staff were very welcoming and gave
her son a candy as a gift. I could see that her son was over the moon. That left me with a
lasting and positive impression about Vinmart.
Vocabulary
1. Shopaholic [noun]: a person who enjoys shopping very much and does it a lot
Eg: A self-confessed shopaholic, Diane loved looking for new clothes with her two daughters.
2. Prime [adj]: main or most important

Eg: Though I'd like to know more about Spanish culture, this was not my prime motivation for
doing the course.
3. Retailing [noun]: the business of selling goods to the public

Eg: There are good career opportunities in retailing if you enjoy dealing with customers.
4. Integration [noun]: the process of combining two or more things into one
Eg: One of the company's weaknesses is poor integration of business processes with
information systems.
5. Competitor [noun]: an organization that competes against another, especially in business.

Eg: The business is successful because it sells better-quality goods than its competitors.
6. Window shopping [expression]: the activity of spending time looking at the goods on sale
in shop windows without intending to buy any of them
Eg: The office workers go window-shopping in their lunch hour, looking for things to buy
when they get paid.
7. Pamper [verb]: to give someone special treatment, making that person as comfortable as
possible and giving them whatever they want
Eg: Why not pamper yourself after a hard day with a hot bath scented with oils?

8. Welcoming [adjective]: friendly to someone who is visiting or arriving
Eg: The hotel has a good reputation for being very welcoming to guests.
9. Over the moon [idiom]: extremely happy

Eg: Sarah was over the moon when she found out she'd got the job.
10. Lasting [adjective]: continuing to exist or have an effect for a long time.
Eg: I formed many lasting friendships at university and I often visit many of these old friends.
84. Describe a talk or a speech

You should say
Who gave the speech
What the topic of the speech was
Whether it impressed you or not
and explain why did you like / dislike the speech.
ANSWER
Three months ago, I attended a seminar organized by my university. The purpose of the
seminar was to present and discuss the job opportunities for undergraduate students in
Vietnam. At first, I hadn’t planned on attending the seminar but on second thoughts, I
decided to go with a friend of mine since I believed that the talk would offer me some
constructive advice on my future career plan. The keynote speaker was a representative of an
educational agency which places strong emphasis on helping students accumulate real
working experience after university graduation. Before delivering the speech, the speaker
forged the bonds between the students in the auditorium by organizing some warm-up
games, which I consider a good approach to capture the attention of the audience and lighten
the atmosphere. He then analyzed a great number of qualities an employer expects from
applicants and he went on to demonstrate the ways to impress employers in an interview, thus
enabling us to have a thorough preparation for our careers later on. Besides, he also presented
some information about long-term career opportunities in Vietnam and discussed the highly
skilled jobs for which there is a shortage of workers. Throughout the speech, what most
impressed me was his endless patience and dedication to delivering the information and
helping the audience understand every single matter clearly. He was always willing to answer

any question asked by the students no matter how minor the problems might be. This is one of
the most significant qualities of a speaker that he clearly possesses. In brief, I found the speech
very informative and useful as it answered a great number of questions I had at the back of
my mind.
Vocabulary
1. Seminar [noun]: an occasion when a teacher or expert and a group of peoplemeet to study
and discuss something (buổi hội thảo, chuyên đề)
Eg: When I was a student, I used to attend a lot of seminars.
2. Plan on [phrasal verb]: intend or expect to do something

Eg: We are planning on driving to the coast on Sunday.
3. On second thoughts [expression]: used to say that you have changed your opinion (suy đi
nghĩ lại)
Eg: I am planning on staying at home tonight. Actually, on second thoughts, I will go out
with you.
4. Constructive [adjective]: helpful (có ích, mang tính xây dựng)

Eg: My father usually gives me a lot of constructive advice.
5. Representative [noun]: someone who does something on behalf of a group of people (người
đại diện)
Eg: She is the representative of the company.
6. Place emphasis on [expression]: special importance that is given to something/ to put stress
on (nhấn mạnh)
Eg: My English teacher places emphasis on grammar and word choices.
7. Accumulate [verb]: to get more and more of something over a period of time (tích lũy)
Eg: By working assiduously, she accumulated a fortune.
8. Forge the bond [expression]: to connect people together (gắn kết mọi người)
Eg: The cultural exchange agreement has forged the bonds between Vietnam and Canada.
9. Auditorium [noun]: a large room where meetings are held (khán phòng)
Eg: Smoking is prohibited in the auditorium.
10. Lighten [verb]: to reduce worry or tension (làm sôi nổi)

Eg: His great sense of humor lightened the atmosphere.
11. Thorough [adjective]: careful (tỉ mỉ, kĩ lưỡng)

Eg: A lot of thorough preparation has been done for the meeting.
12. Shortage [noun]: lack of something (sự thiếu hụt)

Eg: There is a shortage of water in the area.
13. Dedication [noun]: the state of giving a lot of time and energy to something because it is
important (sự cống hiến, tận tụy)
Eg: Success in teaching lies in the power of hard work and dedication to students.
14. Minor [adjective]: not important or serious (nhỏ nhặt)

Eg: Some minor changes have been made to the schedule.
15. Significant [adjective]: very large or important (đáng kể/ vô cùng quan trọng)
Eg: There has been a significant increase in the number of immigrants in recent years.
16. Informative [adjective]: providing a lot of useful information (cung cấp nhiều thông tin
hữu ích)
Eg: The talk was both entertaining and informative.
17. At the back of one’s mind [expression]: having an idea in your mind but not thinking
about it frequently (tồn động trong tâm trí)
Eg: The thought that he might leave was always at the back of her mind.
85. Describe an interesting neighbor you have/had

Who he/she is
And explain why he or she is interesting
ANSWER
Today I’m going to tell you about about my lovely neighbor, whom I really adore and respect.
I live in a beautiful and peaceful street and most of my neighbors are kind, benevolent and
well-mannered. Among them, I would pick Mrs. Cam Nhung as the loveliest neighbor I have
ever met. She is a retired English teacher and she has acquired a reputation as a very
profound and dedicated teacher. Despite her advanced years, she looks really young and is
always full of energy.

She lives with her family next to our house. She moved into our neighborhood 5-6 years ago
and since then she has endeared herself to everybody living in the community. What I find
most appealing about her is her great personality. Although she is not very wealthy, she
always shows compassion for others, especially the poor and the underprivileged. She has
opened a free English class for orphans in the hope of giving them more opportunities to
follow academic education.
Another of her lovely traits is definitely her positivity. She always looks on the bright side of
the problem even when it comes to her own misfortunes. Therefore, whenever I feel
discouraged, I go to her house and seek her advice. She usually greets me with an irresistible
home-baked cake or an encouraging piano song, from which I derive a great deal of pleasure. I
have learnt many useful things from her, not only in everyday things, but also in attitudes to
life.
To me, she is not just a normal neighbor, but a person for whom I feel a sense of empathy,
despite the gap between our ages. Being with her gives me a sense of security and I really owe
a lot of gratitude to this person.
VOCABULARY:
1. (to) RESPECT [verb]: to have a good opinion of sth/sb, to admire sb/sth.

Eg: She has always been honest with me, and I respect her for that.
2. PEACEFUL [adjective]: not involving a war, violence or argument.

Eg: They hope for a peaceful settlement (sự dàn xếp) of the dispute (cuộc cãi vả)
3. BENEVOLENT [adjective]: kind, helpful and generous

Eg: Nhien has a benevolent attitude, which is her most distinct trait.
4. WELL-MANNERED [adjective]: having good manners, courteous

Eg: Minh was educated carefully, which is the reason why he is always well-mannered.
5. REPUTATION [noun]: the opinion people have about sth

Eg: Hoa soon established a reputation as a first-class (đẳng cấp) cook.
6. PROFOUND [adjective]: showing great knowledge or understanding

Eg: This profound book is worth reading – you will learn a lot from it.
7. DEDICATED [adjective]: working hard at sth because it is very important to you.

Eg: Ngoc is one of the most dedicated employees in this company.

8. (to) ENDEAR [verb]: sb/yourself TO sb else: make sb/yourself loved.
Eg: Their policies (chính sách) on taxation did not endear themselves to voters.
9. WEALTHY [adjective]: having a lot of money, possessions ( tài sải), etc.

Eg: Most top footballers in the world are fabulously wealthy.
10. THE UNDERPRIVILEGED [noun]: people having less money and fewer opportunities
than most people in society.
Eg: The underprivileged in most nations are subject to suffer great inequality (sự bất bình
đẳng).
11. ORPHAN [noun]: a child whose parents are dead.

Eg: Mike was an orphan and lived with his uncle
12. MISFORTUNE [noun]: bad luck

Eg: Misfortunes in life are unavoidable, and each of us has to confront (đối mặt với) them in
order to be more mature (trưởng thành)
13. DISCOURAGED [adjective]: feeling less confident of less enthusiastic (nhiệt tình) about
sth
Eg: Don’t be discouraged by the first failure – try, try and try again!
14. (to) SEEK ONE’S ADVICE [verb]: ask sb for an opinion or suggestion about what sb
should do
Eg: We were told to seek legal advice from a well-known lawyer.
15. IRRESISTIBLE [adjective]: so strong that it cannot be stopped or resisted

Eg: On such a hot day, the chance to swim in the sea is irresistible.
16. (to) DERIVE [verb]: sth FROM sth: get sth from sth
Eg: Huy derives great satisfaction (sự thỏa mãn) from painting.
17. ATTITUDE [noun]: the way you feel and think about sth.
Eg: Happiness depends largely on one’s attitude to life, so always be positive.
18. EMPATHY [noun]: the ability to understand the emotions or situations of other people
Eg: Motivated by their feelings of empathy, many people donated money to the earthquake
victims.

19. A SENSE OF SECURITY [noun]: the state of feeling certain, safe.
Eg: The presence of surveillance cameras in the shopping mall gives me a sense of security.
20. (to) OWE GRATITUDE TO SB [v]: feel grateful( biết ơn) and want to express your
thanks to sb
Eg: First and foremost, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my parents and teachers for my
success in the exams.
86. Describe an experience that when you spent time with a child.
- When it happened
- Where it happened
- What you did
And explain how you felt about it.
ANSWER
I would like to tell you about my nephew, who is 8 years old. I have been spending a lot of
time with him since he was born, and I love him to death.
My little nephew has a good sense of humor and he is always full of energy. Last Saturday,
when I had a day off, I planned to come to my sisters’ house to play and have fun with him.
While I was sitting in front of the television and playing the pop song “Worth it” by Fifth
Harmony, he suddenly walked up, sang and danced around the room.
His childish voice, together with the way he shook his hips was so funny that everyone in the
room burst out laughing. He sang the song so fluently, which totally blew my mind.
He also tried to imitate the sexy facial expressions of the five girls in the video. He was so
adorable and at that time I couldn’t take my eyes off him. I couldn’t be happier watching him
grow healthier and smarter every day. That was probably one of the most memorable
moments that will stay with me for a long time.
Vocabulary: Word English meaning Vietnamese Example

meaning
Love somebody to death To feel extremely strong Yêu ai nhiều, yêu Ex: She gets along with
(expression) affection for someone chết đi được all her colleagues, and
everyone in the office
loves her to death.

A good sense of humor Be humorous, make Có khiếu hài hước Ex: I love him because he
(expression) people laugh. has a good sense of
humor.
Full of energy Completely mentally and Tràn đầy năng lượng Ex: Sometimes, I’m tired
(expression) physically active of taking care of my baby
brother because he is
always full of energy and
leaves a mess around the
house.
Childish (adjective) Connected with or typical Trẻ con Ex: Her handwriting is so
of a child childish.
Burst out (phrasal verb) Explode suddenly, loudly, Bật (cười) Ex: The comedy was so
with a strong feeling. funny that everyone burst
out laughing.
Blow somebody’s mind To overwhelm somebody, Làm ai phát cuồng Ex: The view here is
(expression) make somebody excited breathtaking, and it
absolutely blows my
mind.
Facial expression (noun) the look on someone's Biểu hiện của nét Ex: John always has a
face, showing what they mặt miserable facial
feel or think: expression.
Take (my) eyes off To stop looking at Không rời mắt được Ex: Mary is so gorgeous
somebody somebody khỏi ai in her pink dress and I
(expression) can’t take my eyes off
her.
Memorable (adjective) Special or unusual and Ex: The Harry Potter
therefore easy to films are full of
remember memorable characters.
87. Describe a person you were friendly to, although you did not really like them (him or
her)
You should say:
who this person was -> I'm going to talk about .....
when and where it happened
why you didn't like this person -> there are some reasons why.... Firstly, ...secondly, ...
and explain why you were (or had to be) friendly to this person

and explain what the results were after you were friendly to this person
ANSWER
I would like to describe a person who I had to be friendly to, although I did not really like her.
I think this situation is quite common in our lives, especially when we have to act as part of a
team.
A couple of months ago, I was assigned to a team at my workplace in order to tackle a big
project. As part of the team, I had to cooperate closely with this person. However, we had
never really liked each other for several reasons. Firstly, she is much older than I am, so she
always thinks she is right and disregards the opinions of others. I would describe her as both
bossy and officious, although she did not have a more senior position than I did in the
company. Secondly, I considered her irresponsible because she did not appear to me to pay
serious attention to the project. So, although it was supposedly a group project, I ended up
working all on my own as much as possible in order to see the task through.
As the work was vital for our company, we had to be successful. I therefore had no choice
except to collaborate with her in order to finish the job. I would rather have done all the work
alone, but if I had refused to work with her as part of the team, then the evaluation of my job
performance would have been affected at the end of the year. So, knowing her personality as I
did, I swallowed my pride and tried to be patient.
Despite our many arguments, we completed the task on time. I learned that sometimes people
can work together, even though they don‟t get on with each other. It just needs a little bit of
time and patience to work things out, and each person has to compromise to achieve a common
goal.
disregard = to pay no attention to something or someone.
bossy = a bossy person is someone who is always telling other people what to do.
officious = an officious person is someone who uses their authority or position to give orders
to others - another word would be domineering.
irresponsible = an irresponsible person has no feeling of responsibility for something.
supposedly = according to what most people think.

end up = to find yourself in a situation that you did not expect to be in.
on my own = alone.
see.....through = if we see something through, we do not give up until it is finished.
collaborate = to work together with others to achieve something.
swallowed my pride = to hide my feelings, even though I wanted to express what I was
thinking.
get on with = to get on with someone is to have a friendly relationship with them.
work things out = to find a solution.
compromise = to give up some of your ideas in order to come to an agreement with someone.
88. Describe something special you would like to buy (in the future).
You should say:
What it is: We all have a never-ending wish list of things that we want to buy, so do I. One
item that has been on my wish list for a long time is a one-bedroom apartment of my own.
when you would like to ( = want to / hope to) buy it: I hope to cross this item off my list by
the time I turn 30. I know it sounds impossible but it‟d be cool if I could do it. And the most
important thing is that I have a longterm goal to pursue.
How long you have wanted to buy this: Since I am an independent person, I have always
wanted to move out of my parents‟ house. As soon as I graduated college, I wanted to buy a
small apartment.
Where you would like to buy it *: I‟m currently looking for a condo a little further away from
the city centre. Despite the fact that it will take longer for me to travel to work, the
price will be more reasonable and I will be able to afford it.
And explain why you would like to buy this: Having a flat of my own means a lot to me for
several reasons. Firstly, I can decorate the house according to my own tastes and personality.
Secondly, I can do whatever I want without interfering in my parents‟ lives. I can invite my
friends over for the weekend and I can throw a party anytime I want. Most importantly, I

want to show my parents that I am a grown-up woman and that I can take good care of
myself.
VOCABULARY
never-ending - used to describe something that seems to never end or have an ending. “She
had a never-ending list of complaints about her last company.”
to cross an item off your list - to mark it as finished or completed. When you have a list of
things you want to do, and then you do one, you cross it off your list so that you know it has
been finished and you don‟t have to think about it anymore. “Today she was able to cross five
things off of her very long to-do list.”
it would be cool if… - another way to say… it would be nice if or it would be great if - you are
talking about a hypothetical situation. “It would be cool if you could come visit me while I am
in Japan.”
to purse a goal - to go after something that you want to accomplish or achieve. “She spent the
last five years pursuing her goal of becoming a doctor.”
an independent person - someone who likes to do things on their own. “Her brother is a very
independent person; he moved out of the house when he was only 20 and spent the next five
years traveling around the world by himself.”
to move out of - to leave the place where you are living now. “He will be moving out of his
apartment at the end of the month.”
condo - short for condominium, a form of housing where a person owns the unit and then can
either live in it or rent it out to others. It is different than an apartment, which is usually owned
by a person or company that owns all the apartments in a building. “The price for condos these
days has really gone up.”
despite the fact that - even though. “Despite the fact that he has already graduated from
college, he still has no idea what he wants to do with his life.”
to be more reasonable - related to price, it means that you will have an easier time affording it
or paying for it with the money you have. If a price is unreasonable, it means that it is too
expensive for you and you won‟t buy it at that price. “The housing prices are becoming more
reasonable these days than they were 3 years ago.”

means a lot to me - to talk about something being meaningful or important to you. “It means a
lot to me that you came to dinner with me on my birthday.”
to decorate - to put up decorations such as paintings, curtains, wall-hangings, art and other
things in a home or apartment or office. “People decorate their spaces with things they like.”
according to - in agreement or accord with - in this case, she will decorate her apartment based
on her own tastes (what she likes) and her personality (with stuff that represents her). “He will
do his job according to his manager‟s instructions.”
to interfere with - to get in the way of, to be in the middle of something or others. “He doesn‟t
like it when his father interferes with his work by telling him what to do.”
to throw a party - to give or host a party, to be the person who invites others to the party and
provides drinks and food. “She is throwing a big party for her 50th birthday this Saturday.”
a grown-up woman - a mature or adult woman, not a kid. Used to express that you can be
responsible and take care of yourself. “She wanted to prove that she was a grown-up woman
by purchasing a new condo all by herself.”
89. Describe a member of your family who you would like to work with.
You should say:
Who this person is: If I had a chance to choose a family member to work with, I’d prefer to
work with my father.
Whether you have worked together before: Although we have never worked together in a
professional working environment before, we have done a lot of housework and class
assignments together over the years.
What work you would like to do together: Since we share a common interest in finance, I’d
like to work with him in the finance field. My father is an investment banker and I am
currently working as a financial management accountant.
And explain why you would like to work with this person: I’d like to work with my dad on an
M&A deal, because I know that I’d gain a lot of technical knowledge from him. My dad is a
very dedicated and generous person and he is always willing to give guidance to young
people like me. Most importantly, however, is I know that I can trust him in doing business; he
will watch my back and enhance my skills. Though I know we would need to separate our

personal and professional relationships, I believe that my father is experienced enough to not
let our relationship interfere with any business deals.
VOCABULARY
a professional working environment - used to describe the atmosphere or situation in which
you are working as a professional vs another type of environment or situation, like a personal
relationship. “She is eager to begin working in a professional working environment after being
a student for so many years.”
over the years - a way to talk about a long period of time that has lasted throughout many
years. “We have worked well together over the years.”
to share a common interest - used as a way to explain that two or more people enjoy doing
similar things. “They have shared a common interest in classical music for more than a
decade.”
currently - now, used to describe what you are doing or what is happening these days,
nowadays or right now. “I am currently working as a professor at Stanford.”
to gain something - to receive, to get, to improve in an area - in this context it means that he
will learn more technical skills related to finance and this will help him be a better
professional. “She hopes to gain experience in the field of technology by working for Apple.”
dedicated - describes someone who is devoted to something or someone; used to describe
someone who spends a lot of time and energy working on something. You can be dedicated to
your work, to your art, to your company, etc. “She has been a dedicated employee for nearly
25 years.”
generous - giving, used to describe someone who gives of their time, money, energy, etc. “His
father was very generous to his children. He sent them all to college and paid for all their
tuition.”
to be willing to - to want to do something, to agree to do something. “He was not willing to

leave his job to go travel around the world with his girlfriend.”
to give guidance - to help someone by guiding or leading them, by teaching them. “His boss
wasn’t very good at giving him guidance as to what he was supposed to do.”
to watch someone’s back - to look out for another person, to protect another, to help to make
sure that nothing bad or negative happens to another. “His big brother always watches his
back.”
to enhance - to improve the quality of something, to increase, to intensify…“She wants to
enhance her knowledge of cooking by attending culinary school.”

to interfere with - to take part or intervene in an activity without invitation or necessity, to let
something get in between two things. In this context, interfering means letting your personal
relationship get in the middle of and therefore harm or have a negative effect on a business
deal. “She hated it when her father interfered in her work by showing up at her office to talk
about his personal problems.”
90. Describe a magazine or newspaper that you like to read.

You should say:
what magazine or newspaper it is
what the magazine or newspaper is about
how often you read it
what kinds of people generally read this magazine or newspaper
and explain why you like to read it.
ANSWER:
To be honest, I don’t read magazines much these days, but I still read the one called
Vietraveler, which is a tourism magazine.
The magazine contains all that we need to know in terms of traveling, such as reviews of
numerous famous destinations, tips to save money when traveling or what we need to prepare
for a trip. Besides, at the back of the magazine, there are a few discount coupons for some
particular domestic tours which are run by tourist companies.
Always, when a new issue is published, I get it delivered to my house by post. Actually, I
have been a subscriber to this magazine for almost 5 years and I fully intend to carry on
reading it. As all the information in it is arranged logically, therefore, I find it quite easy to
locate every article that interests me. In addition, I highly appreciate the quality of the
magazine’s contents. The attractiveness of the glossy photos and the high standard of
journalism are just two of its outstanding features.
As a final point, I would emphasize that I usually depend on this magazine to plan a good
trip or suggest one to my friends.
VOCABULARY

discount coupons: [noun] small pieces of printed paper that gives you the right to buy
something at a cheaper price than normal.
Example: I cut the discount coupons out of the newspaper and used them to buy an Iphone at
a reduced price.
run: [verb] provided and made available to people.

Example: The school runs special courses for teenagers during the summer.
issue: [noun] one of a regular series of a magazine.

Example: In the last issue of the magazine, there is an article about restaurants in Hanoi.
subscriber: [noun] a person who pays money – usually once a year – to receive regular copies
of a magazine or newspaper.
Example: The number of subscribers to the magazine has now reached 10,000.
fully intend to: [adverb+verb] to have a definite plan about something which you will do.
Example: If I don’t go on holiday this month, then I fully intend to take a holiday next month.
carry on: [phrasal verb] continue.

Example: Even if I pass the exam, I fully intend to carry on studying English to an advanced
level.
glossy: [adjective] smooth and shiny, so as to look real and attractive.

Example: The shiny paper used in glossy magazines is very expensive, so the magazines too
are always expensive.
outstanding: [adjective] extremely good and very important.

Example: The outstanding tourist attraction in New York is the Statue of Liberty.
91. Describe a new skill you would like to learn.

You should say:
what skill (= what you would like to learn to do)
where you would learn it (or, where you think would be the best place to learn it)
how difficult you think it would be
and explain why you would like to learn this skill.
ANSWER:

I’d like to talk about a new skill that I want to learn. I’m the kind of adventurous person who
enjoys the challenge of learning new things, whether it is a new sport or a skill that would be
useful to me.
I would like to have the skills to set up my own website. Probably the best place to learn to do
this would be online, using a distance-learning course run by a university, which I could take
free of charge. I wouldn’t need to travel and I could complete the course at my own pace in my
spare time.
Although there would be a lot to learn, I already use computers all the time, so I think that I
could pick up the basics quite quickly. With practice, I would become more creative and able
to incorporate new features on my website.
Of course, I imagine that I would find the course interesting, but I have a practical reason for
wanting to master this skill. I have recently started my own company, selling sports goods, so
it would be a really cost-effective and attractive way to advertise my products.
VOCABULARY
adventurous: [adjective] willing to take risks and try new ideas.

Example: My friend is very adventurous and she loves to try the local cuisine when we travel
to other countries.
challenge: [noun] a new or difficult task that tests someone’s ability or skill.
Example: It will be a big challenge to pass my final exams.
set up: [phrasal verb] create or start something.

Example: The government has set up a new clinic in the city centre.
distance learning: [noun] a system of education where people study at home with the help of
special Internet sites, and e-mail work to their teachers.
Example: Although he lives in the countryside, he is able to take a distance learning course to
qualify as an engineer.
at my own pace: [expression] at the speed which is best for me.

Example: She prefers to study alone, so that she can work at her own pace.
pick up: [phrasal verb] get information or a skill quite easily, without too much work.
Example: I picked up a lot of English during my visit to New York.

creative: [adjective] able to use skill and imagination to produce something new.
Example: The advertising company employs a creative team to think of new ideas and
designs.
incorporate: [verb] to include something, so that it then forms part of something else.
Example: The teacher incorporates music into his English lessons, to make them more
enjoyable.
master: [verb] learn or understanding something completely.

Example: I was never able to master the French language when I was at school.
cost-effective: [adjective] giving the best possible results for the money and time spent on
something.
Example: Using more security cameras in public places is a cost-effective way to reduce
crime.
attractive: [adjective] having features or qualities that make something seem interesting or
pleasant.
Example: My flat is opposite some attractive gardens, which are full of trees and flowers.
92. Describe a leader who you admire.
You should say:

who this person is
what this person does (as a leader)
how he or she became a leader
how you know about this person (or, how you personally know this person)
and explain explain why you admire this leader (= explain how (or why) this leader's qualities
impress you)
ANSWER:
I would like to share with you my impression of a leader who I really admire. Her name is
Huong, the director of the VPBank Hoan Kiem Branch, where I had a chance to do an
internship for over 3 months last year.
She has not only a wide knowledge of banking but also a lot of experience of being a good
leader. That can be seen through the way that staff carry out their duties in the bank that she
has been running. Although that bank is just a small branch of theVPBank, the work of the
employees is extremely professional and efficient.

Not only has she succeeded in her career path, she also pays attention to her clothing style and
physical appearance. She is in her 30s with shoulder-length hair. Because her business requires
meeting with customers a lot, she always knows how to choose smart and suitable clothes to
complement her figure.
What I really admire is how well she treats her subordinates not only in terms of working
relationships but also in daily life, if their personal problems affect their performance at work,
always taking care thoughtfully of each person in her company. I will try my best to become a
good leader like her in the future.
VOCABULARY
impression: [noun] an idea or feeling about someone/something.

Example: My first impression of Australia is that the people are very friendly.
branch: [noun] a local office or shop/store belonging to a large company or organization.

Example: The bank has branches in every big town and city in the country.
internship: [noun] a period of time when a student or graduate gets practical experience in a
job – for example during a summer vacation.
Example: My brother has just finished his accountancy course at university, and this summer
he is going to do an internship at a leading company of accountants in the city.
run: [verb] in this context, it means ‘manage’ a company or business.

Example: I am going to apply for the job of a director, running the new sports centre in town.
career path: [noun] the route taken by an employee, from the time that they first enter a
company or organisation until the time that they retire from work.
Example: He followed a successful career path, starting work as a simple cleaner and later
becoming a senior manager in the company.
in her 30s: [expression] aged between 30 and 39.

Example: Although she is only in her 30s, my sister has already bought her own house.
complement: [verb] add to something in a way which makes it look better/more attractive.
Example: The excellent choice of food is complemented by a good wine list.
figure: [noun] the shape of a human body, especially a woman’s body that is attractive or
smart.
Example: Although she is in her 60s, my grandmother still has a smart figure.

subordinates: [noun] people with less authority within an organisation or company.
Example: I always discuss things with my subordinates in the business before making my
decisions.
thoughtfully: [adverb] in a way that shows you think about and care about other people.
Example: When we arrived, the hotel had thoughtfully provided a special meal for us.
93. Describe an interesting public place in your hometown, or where you are living now,
that you like to go to
You should say:
where it is
what you do there
and explain why you think it is interesting.
ANSWER
Today, Im going to share with you an interesting public place where I really enjoy going to to
hang out with my close friends in my spare time, which is a lovely café named The Hanoi
Social Club.
It is situated at Hoi Vu alley – a small quiet lane near Hang Bong street in the centre of Hanoi.
The coffee house is decorated in an old, traditional French style, with a lot of paintings on the
wall, and it attracts a lot of foreign customers. As a full-time student, I have been so caught up
in my studies, therefore, I just take a day off to go there on weekends after a long stressful
week.
There are many live music events taking place there performed by acoustic guitarists, so I
often check them out on the internet and come with my friends. Because this type of music is
my kind of thing, I am in my element just humming the tune of the songs and relaxing in a
comfy chair to enjoy myself.
The fast food tastes quite savoury and especially the coffee in The Hanoi Social Club is always
irresistibly delicious. That might be the reason why it was ranked among the top 5 best coffee
shops in Hanoi in 2015. What I really love is how cozy the atmosphere is, something which I
have not found in any other coffee shop yet.
Whenever things go wrong, I often go there as a hideaway to escape from all the pressures and
order a cup of coffee to relieve my stress. It always works wonders. I find it extremely

therapeutic and soothing. Therefore, it’s more than likely that I will still keep coming back to
it as my favourite place in the near future.
VOCABULARY
hang out: [phrasal verb] spend time in a particular place.
Example: I sometimes hang out at the shopping mall on Sundays and meet up with my
friends.
lane: [noun] a narrow street in a city, with buildings on both sides.

Example: The lane behind the museum will take you directly to the train station.
decorate: [verb] make something more attractive.

Example: Her living room is always decorated with flowers.
caught up: [phrasal verb] involved in a concentrated way, so that you forget other things
around you.
Example: I was so caught up in the film that I forgot to feed the cat.
acoustic: [adjective] designed to make natural sound, not sound produced by electrical
equipment.
Example: Artists who play traditional music usually use acoustic instruments, copying the way
in which the music was originally played.
in my element: [expression] doing what I enjoy.

Example: I am really in my element at parties, because I love dancing and mixing with
friends.
hum: [verb] sing a tune with your lips closed.

Example: He began humming along to the music.
comfy: [adjective] comfortable.

Example: This new jacket isn’t as comfy as my old one.
irresistibly: [adverb] in a way that is so strong that it cannot be stopped.

Example: Romeo and Juliet in Shakespeare’s play were two young lovers who were
irresistibly attracted to each other.
cozy: [adjective] warm and comfortable and safe, often used to refer to something small.
Example: I felt cozy and relaxed sitting by the fire.

hideaway: [noun] a place where you can go to be alone.
Example: He escapes to his hideaway in the country at weekends.
relieve: [verb] remove or reduce an unpleasant feeling or pain.

Example: To relieve his feeling of guilt, he decided to tell the truth to the police.
work wonders: [expression] have a very good effect on someone or something.

Example: If you have a bad cold, a hot lemon drink at night works wonders.
therapeutic: [adjective] helping you to relax.

Example: I find that yoga is very therapeutic, and I always feel better after my yoga class.
soothing: [adjective] that makes someone who is anxious or stressed, feel better.
Example: The doctor has such a soothing voice that his patients feel relaxed immediately.
94. Describe a time when you made a mistake.

You should say:
where you were
what you were doing
what mistake you made
and explain what was the result of your mistake.
ANSWER
Today, I am going to share with you a time when I made a mistake. This situation happened
last year when I had to attend a final exam for my business management qualification.
The test required candidates to use a calculator because the exam involved doing a lot of
calculations. I was sure that putting the calculator into my bag was the first thing I had done in
the morning. As it turned out, I had not. I realized that I would definitely not pass if I was not
be able to borrow a calculator immediately.
I really did not want to put myself at risk of delaying my graduation plan, because I had
devoted a lot of valuable time to this subject, and had even paid money for the upcoming
semester. In panic, I figured out that I had to ask for help. I decided to make a call to one of my
classmates living in the dormitory to borrow her calculator.
Unfortunately, she was not in Hanoi at that time. As a result, I had to manage without a
calculator to deal with this difficult situation. Although I scraped by in the exam, I failed to get
a high mark. It was an extremely valuable lesson for me. I learnt the hard way that I need to be
more careful and well-prepared for the important things in my life.

VOCABULARY:
calculator: [noun] a small electronic device for dealing with numbers.
Example: As my course is based on mathematics, I always carry a pocket calculator with me.
turn out: [phrasal verb] to be discovered [for example, in a particular situation].

Example: The hotel room, as it turned out, was facing a busy road.
devote to: [phrasal verb] give an amount of time or attention to something.

Example: I devote two hours every evening to doing my homework.
upcoming: [adjective] going to happen soon.

Example: Who do you think will win the upcoming US Presidential election?
figure out: [phrasal verb] think about something until you understand it.
Example: I couldn’t figure out how to install the software, so I asked my best friend for
advice.
dormitory: [noun] a room for several people to sleep, especially in a school, college or other
institution.
Example: He shares a dormitory with 4 other students, but he would prefer to have his own
private room.
manage: [verb] succeed in doing something difficult.

Example: Despite all the traffic on the roads, we managed to arrive at the airport on time.
scrape by: [phrasal verb] to succeed in doing something, but with difficulty.
Example: He is happy that he scraped by in the exam, because he did not do any revision.
learn the hard way: [expression] learn something by experience – usually in an unpleasant
way.
Example: Since I fell off my motorbike last year and hurt my head, I have learnt the hard
way that I should always wear a helmet.
95. Describe a person who you like to spend time with.
You should say:

what relationship the two of you have
how often you are together
what you usually do together and explain why you like to spend time with this person.

ANSWER
Today, I’m going to share with you my description of a person who I like to spend time with.
There are 5 members in my small family, but my dad is the one that I am closer to than the
others. I get along with him pretty well because we have many things in common.
My father is getting on a bit. He’s in his 50s but he looks quite young for his age. He works
as a teacher in a high school. I have been told that I take after him and it makes me feel proud
because a lot of people look up to him as a devoted teacher in his school.
Although he is so caught up in his work, he always tries his best to make time for the family
that he loves and me, of course. Playing tennis is one of our shared hobbies, so we tend to play
together every other weekend, which is really a great time for us to get to bond with each
other. We also have an interest in watching football matches on TV and comment about them
enthusiastically like real close friends.
He has high expectations for me to become a teacher when I graduate so I will try my best to
live up to them. We usually talk to each other about many things in our life, you know, his
work in the school, my study, current affairs and sports, and stuff like that. He imparts
valuable knowledge to me, not only about his career but also about real life experiences. I
treasure my dad a lot. I realize that he really relates to me a lot and stays by my side
whenever I’m in trouble.
VOCABULARY:
get along with: [phrasal verb] have a friendly relationship with someone.
Example: I get along with my brother really well – we never have an argument.
getting on a bit: [expression] quite old.

Example: I will be 70 next year, so I have to admit that I am getting on a bit now.
in his 50s: [expression] aged between 50 and 59.

Example: President Obama was quite young when he was elected, but now he is in his 50s.
take after: [phrasal verb] look or behave like an older member of a family.
Example: Like her mother, she is very patient and everyone says that she takes after her
mother.
look up to: [phrasal verb] admire or respect someone.

Example: He is a very dedicated doctor and everyone looks up to him.
be caught up in: [phrasal verb] be involved in something.

Example: I am very caught up in revising for my exams, so I don’t have any free time.
every other weekend: [expression] each alternate one = the 1st, the 3rd, the 5th; but not the
2nd, the 4th, the 6th.
Example: About twice a month, that is every other weekend, she travels to London to see her
sister.
bond: [verb] develop a close relationship of trust and friendship.

Example: To enable students to bond with each other, the teachers in our school encourage a
lot of team projects, in which students work together.
expectations: [noun] strong beliefs about what will happen or how somebody should behave.
Example: I studied hard for the exam, so I have high expectations that I will pass.
live up to: [phrasal verb] do as well or be as good as other people expect.

Example: She hopes that she can live up to her father’s expectations and qualify as a doctor.
stuff: [noun] used to refer to any things or objects when the name is not important.
Example: We talked about our hopes, our dreams, our fears – stuff like that.
treasure: [verb] have or keep something/someone that you love.

Example: I treasure his friendship and I hope that we will continue to be best friends for many
years.
relates to: [phrasal verb] is able to understand and have sympathy for someone.
Example: Most children relate to their parents, although they may not always agree about
everything.
96. Describe some good news you got from television or the internet.
You should say:
when you got the news
where you got the news
what the news was about
and explain why you think it was good news
ANSWER:

when you got the news: Well, I’m going to talk about the news regarding legalizing same-sex
marriage in the US in June 2015.
where you got the news: This was huge news for the LGBT community and it was broadcast
on all types of media ranging from television to social networks on the internet. Personally, I
heard the news on the radio whilst I was driving home one evening.
what the news was about: Basically, the United States‟ Supreme Court ruled that the refusal
to recognize same-sex marriage is unconstitutional and that there should be no legal
restriction against marrying another person, whatever his or her gender.
and explain why you think it was good news: I think this was good news for several reasons.
Firstly, it is undeniable that the LGBT community has been growing fast in recent years.
Despite cruel discrimination from some „straight‟ people, these minorities still fight for their
right to be treated equally. Secondly, it was good news because it will change the lives of
many individuals. I myself have a gay friend and he is just like other guys, the only difference
is that he is not attracted to females. He has a great personality, and he is brilliant and funny.
However, he always thinks that being gay is unfortunate. He thinks that if he comes out,
nobody will befriend him or they will stay away from him and he will eventually die alone. As
a result, the news of legalizing same-sex marriage in the US has encouraged people like my
friend to be more confident in themselves and this news gives them the courage to live proudly
as who they are. Although it‟s going to take a long time for the Vietnamese people to accept
this concept, I strongly believe that in the end, our society will gradually learn to appreciate
that each individual has a unique personality and we should embrace our differences.
VOCABULARY:
broadcast: in this sentence, it means that a lot of people were told about it on these various
forms of media.
ranging from: including a variety of different things, in addition to TV and social networks,
like on a continuum, it goes from here to there, from one place to another.
rule: this means „to give a legal decision‟ about something.
unconstitutional: not allowed by the laws of a country or organization which are outlined in
the constitution.
legal restriction: a law that limits what you are able to do.

LGBT: this means “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender”.
discrimination: the action of treating some person or group less fairly than others.
‘straight’: this means „heterosexual‟ –attracted to people of the opposite sex.
come out: to stop hiding the fact that he is gay.
befriend: become a friend of somebody. He thinks that nobody will make friends with him.
legalize: to make something legal, so that it is part of the law of the country.
concept: idea.
unique: very special and different from others.
embrace: in this sentence, it means to „accept willingly‟.
97. Describe a time when you got lost.

You should say:
where it was, who was with you
how you felt
and explain how you eventually found your way
ANSWER
It was during the summer of 2009 when my friend and I were traveling in Venice, Italy. We
were running all around the city taking pictures. The weather was so pleasant and the
scenery was so stunning that we lost track of where we were going. We did not even realize
we were lost until dusk, when we stopped to rest.
Since Venice is a small city with a lot of small alleyways and not many street lights, we started
to feel worried as the sky turned darker and darker. We tried to use the map to locate our place
but it was so complicated. We looked around but we didn‟t see anybody, there weren‟t any
direction signs either.
Fortunately, when we were starting to lose our patience and about to give up, we found a
policeman. Although his English was not very good, he helped us find our hotel and showed us

the way back. After thirty minutes of walking, we safely arrived at our hotel and felt
completely relieved. Thankfully, we did not have to spend the night out on the street that day.
VOCABULARY
running all around the city - to run all around a place just means to move around, not literally
running, but walking or getting around somehow. It is used to express the idea that you are
busy and in movement. “We spent the whole day running around the city doing errands.”
pleasant - nice, here it is used to describe weather that is not too cold, not too hot, just right,
usually sunny and warm. “We spent a pleasant evening on the beach.”
scenery - the surroundings, the things you are looking at either in a city or out in nature. “The
scenery on the drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco is beautiful.”
stunning - amazing, beautiful, used to describe something that you find to be awe-inspiring or
awesome. “Her wedding dress was stunning.”
to lose track of something - to lose something. In this context to lose track of where they are
just means that they got lost. They couldn‟t keep track of the streets and their position in the
city. “They lost track of their keys and spent 30 minutes looking for them.”
dusk - the time when the sun has gone down and it is starting to get darker.
“They said that the beach closes at dusk.”
to rest - to take a break from some activity. “We needed to rest after driving for 5 hours.”
alleyways - small streets or passages between buildings. “They found a stray cat in the
alleyway.”
to feel worried - to be concerned or scared about something. “I felt worried that I might not be
able to finish my work on time and I‟d miss the concert.”
complicated - confusing, difficult to understand, intricate. “Learning a new computer language
isn‟t that complicated for some people, but for others it is totally confusing.”
Fortunately - a good thing, it is fortunate or good that something happened. “Fortunately, we
all made it home safely.”
to lose our patience - to stop having patience with something or someone. When you lose your
patience, you feel upset or angry or overwhelmed. “His mother was losing her patience with

him and threatened to leave without him if he didn‟t hurry up. She didn‟t want to miss the
movie.”
to give up - to stop doing something. “He decided to give up on trying to get his dad to go
bowling with him; he invited his sister instead.”
the way back - the return route to some location or place. “We had to stop for gas on the way
back home.”
to feel relieved - to feel better because something did or didn’t happen. “They felt relieved
when they heard from their son and knew that he was okay.”
98. Describe an historic building that you have visited

You should say:
what it was
where it was
and explain what features of the building you found interesting.
ANSWER
- Today, I am going to share with you one of my favorite historic buildings that I have
visited, that is The Temple of Literature or “Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám” in Vietnamese.
- Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam - located to the south of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – is
now part of Hanoi City. This was the first university in Vietnam, which was built in 1070 in
King Ly Thanh Tong‟s reign. The Temple was dedicated to Confucius and it was built to
educate Vietnam‟s bureaucrats, nobles, royalty and other members of the elite.
- Like many other temples, The Temple of Literature was built in a vast area with many
pavilions, halls, statues, yards…. However, one of the best features that I liked most is the
Turtle Steles with the names of those successful at the royal exams. I remembered when I
was a senior in high school, I would come here to pray for luck for my university entrance
exam. This tradition is very popular among Hanoian students and pupils. In addition, during
the Tet holiday, we can come here to ask for a pair of “Hán” wishes from calligraphists to
bring home as a lucky charm or gift.
VOCABULARY
citadel: [noun] a castle on high ground in or near a city, where people could go when the city
was attacked.

Example: The enemy attacked the city, but all the people were safe inside the citadel.
reign: [noun] the period during which an emperor, queen or king is the ruler of a country.
Example: The reign of the emperor Ly Thanh Tong lasted for 18 years.
dedicate: [verb] to hold a ceremony to say that a building is special to the memory of a
particular person or people.
Example: A statue was dedicated to those who died in the war.
bureaucrats: [noun] officials working in an organization or government department.

Example: Some people think that their lives are regulated too strictly by bureaucrats.
the elite: [noun] a small group of people who are powerful in a society and have a lot of
influence.
Example: In some countries, only the elite can afford to send their children to university.
pavilions: [noun] buildings to hold events, designed to be beautiful.

Example: In the park, there is a beautiful pavilion, in which concerts and exhibitions are held.
pray: [verb] to speak to God, especially to give thanks or to ask for help.
Example: We prayed that she would recover from her illness.
calligraphists: [noun] people who are skilled at writing beautifully, using a special pen or
brush.
Example: In the past, many calligraphists were monks, who copied texts using beautiful
handwriting.

charm: [noun] a small object worn on a chain or as a bracelet, to bring good luck.
Example: In British tradition, a charm of a rabbit‟s foot was worn on a chain around the neck
of a person to bring good luck.
99. Describe a long walk that you went on.

You should say:
where you walked
who you walked with
what you saw (and did) during this walk
and explain why you went on this long walk.
or
and explain how you felt about going on this long walk.
ANSWER:
- Earlier this year, during Lunar New Year, one of my foreign friends decided to visit
Vietnam. So I took her on a tour to my favorite place in Hanoi, The Temple of Literature or
“Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám” in Vietnamese.
- Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam – was the first university in Vietnam. It was built in 1070 during
King Ly Thanh Tong‟s reign. Like many other temples, The Temple of Literature was built in
a vast area with many pavilions, halls, statues, courtyards … it took us more than an hour to
finish walking around the Temple.
- Certainly, I didn‟t forget to show her one of the best features of the Temple, which are the
Turtle Steles with the names of people who were successful at the royal exams. I told her that
when I was a senior in high school, I would come here to pray for luck for my university
entrance exam. This tradition is very popular among Hanoian students and pupils. At the end
of our tour, we stopped to ask for a pair of “Hán” wishes from calligraphists to bring home as
a lucky charm and my friend was so happy about it.
- Although I have come here so many times, I still enjoyed the walk because the Temple
somehow made me feel calm and relaxed. It‟s difficult to find to such a peaceful place as
this, especially when you live in a metropolitan area [4].
VOCABULARY
lunar: [adjective] connected with the moon.
Example: In one of their lunar missions, American astronauts landed on the moon.

reign: [noun] the period during which an emperor, queen or king is the ruler of a country.
Example: The reign of the emperor Ly Thanh Tong lasted for 18 years.
pavilions: [noun] buildings to hold events, designed to be beautiful.

Example: In the park, there is a beautiful pavilion, in which concerts and exhibitions are held.
statues: [noun] figures of a person or an animal, usually made of stone.

Example: In Paris, there are many statues of famous people, such as emperors or kings.
courtyards: open spaces surrounded by buildings, and usually part of a castle or large house.
Example: Before we entered the palace, we passed through a courtyard surrounded by high
walls.
pray: [verb] to speak to God, especially to give thanks or to ask for help.
Example: We prayed that she would recover from her illness.
calligraphists: [noun] people who are skilled at writing beautifully, using a special pen or
brush.
Example: In the past, many calligraphists were monks, who copied texts using beautiful
handwriting.
charm: [noun] a small object worn on a chain or as a bracelet, to bring good luck.
Example: In British tradition, a charm of a rabbit‟s foot was worn on a chain around the neck
of a person to bring good luck.
metropolitan: [adjective] connected with a large city.

Example: There are many tall buildings in the New York metropolitan area.
100. Describe a successful small business that you know.

You should say:
what the business is
where it is
who runs the business / how you know about this business
and explain why you think it is successful.
ANSWER:
- Nowadays, there is a new booming [1] trend of start-ups in my city; however, not all of them
are successful. One of the businesses that I think is the most successful is the KAfe chain of
restaurants and café boutiques.
- I remember 2 years ago, they only had one business in our city. It quickly became one of the
favorite [2] spots for young Hanoians to get together. Now they have expanded with
franchises [3] in almost every corner of my city. The fame of KAfe has spread by word of
mouth, and in my case, a friend told me about it.
- The owner of the chain is a young woman, who is only 31 years old at the moment. Since I
have always been [4] interested in opening up a small café/ restaurants of my own, I admire
her work a lot.
- She has successfully created a brand name of real food, in the environment of a modern,
energetic and urban café, introducing the foreign lifestyle to our rustic city. Every time I
have visited this restaurant, it has always been full [4] and this applies to all other KAfe
locations in our city, not just one specific place.
- Recently, the group announced that it had [5] raised a 5.5- million-dollar investment from
overseas funds. This proves that the KAfe chain is considered to have great potential in
developing further and becoming even more successful in the future.
VOCABULARY
booming: [adjective] having a sudden increase in business, wealth and success.

Example: The owner was able to buy new machinery, because his company was booming and
he had money to invest.
start-ups: [noun] companies that are just opening.

Example: Many start-ups fail because they do not have enough money to survive their first
year in business.
chain: [noun] a group of businesses owned by the same company.

Example: There are about 6 large chains of supermarkets selling food in the UK.
boutiques: [noun] a small business that sells fashionable products.

Example: A famous street in London is full of small boutiques selling all the latest styles of
clothes.
franchises: [noun] businesses which have been given permission by a company to sell its
products in a particular area.
Example: The largest restaurant franchise in the UK is McDonalds.
word of mouth: [expression] The chain is famous because people have talked about it to each
other.
Example: The news of the accident spread by word of mouth, hours before it was reported on
TV.
brand name: [noun] the name given to a product by the company that produces it.
Example: The brand name of the most famous trainers is NIKE.
rustic: [adjective] simple – typical of the countryside.

Example: It is impossible to see rustic styles of houses in Hanoi nowadays.
investment: [noun] a sum of money that you lend to a business, expecting that you will make
more money over a period of time.
Example: The investment of money by the bank enabled the business to expand.
101. Describe a person/something that made you laugh

You should say:
When this happened
Where this happened
Who were there
And explain why you laughed
ANSWER (Trích từ đề “Describe situation when a child made you laugh”)
One of my best friends has a 3-year-old baby girl; so every time we went out, she
would take her with us.
Her little girl is such a witty kid, and she is always full of energy. As she begins to
be aware of the outside world, she asks a lot of questions just to satisfy her curiosity.
It happened one day when we went out shopping. While her mother and I took turns
trying clothes on, she was sitting quietly on the bench. Then she looked at me and
her mother and started to express her opinions on our clothes.
The way she talked was so funny that we couldn’t stop laughing. She was so used to
playing with her Barbie doll that she suggested we should dress like one of her dolls.
She even taught us how to walk like models because she thought that was pretty. All
the customers who walked in the store noticed her, even the store owner couldn’t
stop laughing at her since she was still a baby girl, but she talked and acted like a
grown-up woman.
That was probably the best part of the shopping trip that I will never forget.

VOCABULARY
- witty: [adjective] able to say clever and funny things
Example: Everybody laughed during the lesson, because the teacher was so witty.
- satisfy her curiosity: [verb phrase] to have an answer to a strong wish to know
about something
Example: My answer did not satisfy his curiosity, so he asked me for more
details about what had happened.
- trying clothes on: [verb phrase] to put on clothes to see if they fit and if they look good
Example: Try these clothes on before you buy them to make sure that they are
the correct size.
- models: [noun] people whose job it is to wear and show new styles of clothes
Example: The dream of many young people is to become fashion models and
appear in magazines.
- grown-up: [adjective] typical of an adult
Example: The child was used to being treated in a grown-up way by his parents.
102. Describe a quiet place.

Where it is
How often you visit there
What you do there
And explain the reason why you like or dislike the place.
ANSWER
To me, quiet places mean libraries. But I’m not going to describe the library at my university
as I still haven’t visited it yet. The one I’m going to describe is the library at my high school in
Haiduong City.
My school is very large and it consists of four big blocks named A, B, C, and D. The library
occupies a small space on the highest floor in block D, and it’s perhaps just about three or

nearly four times as large as a normal classroom. There’s a room used to store books and
another for students to read books and self-study.
I spent most of my time in the library when I was in grade 10. The next two years were filled
completely with competitions and extracurricular activities so I couldn’t go to the library as
often as before. I had my own favorite spot in the self-study section; it was the cubicle on the
outermost row that is near the window, and whenever I visited the library to study or to read
some borrowed books, I would choose that spot without hesitation. I even wrote some words
or symbols that I liked on the table; don’t know whether they’re still there now though.
I specifically chose this library to describe because it’s really quiet, compared with some other
libraries in Haiduong City that I’ve been to. It was really suitable for studying, and some even
went there to sleep! I had a great time self-studying in this library back then, I seriously would
re-visit it if I ever had a chance.
VOCABULARY:
Cubicle [noun] (buồng làm việc kín nhỏ, cách các buồng khác bằng vách ngăn) a partially
enclosed workspace in an office which is separated from neighboring workspaces by partitions
e.g. He was in a cubicle of his own, and he could see at least a hundred more cubicles in this
room alone.
Outermost [adjective] (ngoài cùng, cách xa trung tâm nhất) at the greatest distance from the
center
e.g. The city centre is Zone 1 and the outermost suburbs are Zone 6.
Occupy [verb] (chiếm) fill or take up (a space or time)
e.g. Every parking space was occupied here; you would have to park somewhere else.
Without hesitation [phrase] -If you say that someone does something without hesitation , you
are emphasizing that they do it immediately and willingly.
e.g. The great majority of strikers would return to work without hesitation if they were offered
a better deal.
Specifically [adverb] (đặc biệt) for a particular purpose
e.g. These picture books were created specifically for children.

103. Describe a tourist site in your country that you enjoyed visiting.
You should say:
Where you went (= the name and location of the place)
What sort of this place it was (or, what it looked like)
What you did there
Who you went with
Explain why you enjoyed it.
Or
Explain why you think people are attracted to that place
ANSWER
I have travelled to several places around the country but there is one of them that always
comes to my mind whenever I make travel plans with my family or friends. So, I am going to
talk about a place which is called Hoi An. Hoi An is a city in Quang Nam Province, it is
located in the central region of Vietnam and it is famous for its historic district. I had heard
many favorable reports about it before, but it was not until the summer of 2014 that I actually
had a chance to go there with my best friend.
At first, I was surprised at how quiet and peaceful it was. Actually, I am the type of person
who prefers wandering around big cities with impressive modern buildings such as
Singapore, Seoul and Tokyo, or cities with elegant architecture like Paris and London, so I
was kind of disappointed when I first came to Hoi An. It was so quiet and it looked neither
modern nor decorative, instead of that, it brings out the vibe of those ancient Chinese streets
which we often see in Chinese movies. After searching on Google, I got to know that the name
Hoi An originally means “a peaceful place to meet” and I personally think that the atmosphere
there matches its name perfectly.
In spite of not falling in love with the city at the very first sight, I slowly grew fond of it
during my 4-day stay there. Since it was simply a city with very ancient streets, there was no
shopping mall, and no attractions with entertainment, so all we did was to walk around, taking
photos of the picturesque sights and eating amazingly delicious local delicacies. I am a food
person so I feel very intrigued when it comes to good local food, and Hoi An didn’t disappoint
me in this field. I was extremely happy during my stay because I was able to have about 6
meals a day, since everything is so tasty and cheap. Besides, in Hoi An, there are no cars and
motorbikes going like rockets on the road, no rush hours, no polluted air, no shouting or

yelling in the streets, and those are the things that calmed me, and gave me time to let both my
mind and body wander. I felt like all my stress had disappeared and my mind was so relaxed I
forgot about all my problems that I had left behind in busy Hanoi before the trip. I think
everyone who went there also experienced that feeling, which is why people always want to go
back to Hoi An and adore it so much.
Vocabulary:
1. Several [determiner]: some, an amount that is not exact but is fewer than many
Eg: I've seen "Gone with the Wind" several times.
2. To come to one’s mind [expression]: to enter into one’s consciousness or be remembered
Eg: The idea for my new book came to my mind when I was showering.
3. Favorable [adjective]: making people have a good opinion of something
Eg: Her new book has had favorable reviews.
4. To wander [verb]: to walk around in a relaxed way without any clear purpose
Eg: I usually wander around my hometown whenever I have time.
5. Impressive [adjective]: making you feel admiration for something or somebody
Eg: His essays are very impressive – there are almost no mistakes.
6. Elegant [adjective]: attractive and designed well
Eg: Her father bought her an elegant dress for her birthday.
7. Neither…nor [expression]: not one nor the other of two things/ people
Eg: I neither know nor care about what happened to him.
8. Decorative [adjective]: intended to look attractive
Eg: It was an elegant door, with a decorative design which caught my attention.
9. Vibe [noun]: a mood produced by a particular thing or place
Eg: As soon as I entered the dark street, I felt a strange vibe as if there were danger there.
10. To grow fond of something/someone [phrasal verb]: begin to like something that you
didn’t really like before
Eg: The truth is I have grown fond of chocolate, although I used to hate it.

11. Picturesque [adjective]: attractive – of a place or building – especially one which is old.
Eg: The programme about Thailand showed some picturesque scenes of beaches, temples and
mountains.
12. Sight [noun]: an interesting place, often visited by tourists
Eg: If you visit London, you must see some famous sights such as the Tower of London and
Westminster Abbey.
13. Delicacy [noun]: a type of food that is very special in a particular place
Eg: In France, snails with garlic are considered to be a delicacy.
14. Intrigued [adjective]: very interested in something and wanting to know more about it
Eg: I was intrigued to hear the story of his childhood in China.
15. Yell [verb]: to shout loudly because you are angry or excited
Eg: The crowd yelled encouragement at their team.
16. Adore [verb]: to love somebody or something very much
Eg: I adore trying the local food when I travel to a new place.
104. Describe a family member who has an important influence on you

You should say
Who the person is
How long you have known him /her
What qualities this person has
and explain why this person has had such an influence on you.
ANSWER
Well, in my life, there are several family members who have made unmatched contributions
to help me go ahead, and among them my father’s impact is the most meaningful. He is the
person whom I love most in this world and I consider him to be a perfect father and role model
with his honesty, bravery, resourcefulness and responsibility.

Together with my mother, he is the very person who brought me into this wonderful world.
From my childhood, he has raised me with his great care, affection and mentorship. He has
taught me moral lessons about the world, people and values. Despite having a busy schedule,
he has always given motivational support to me on my education and has dedicated his life to
his family.
My father is an exemplary person who has led an honest life. As a high ranking government
officer, he had many chances to pile up personal riches but he has always known the right
things to do and never broke the rules. The basic notion of humanity and the importance of
education were values he delivered to me. He is now a retired person and leads his serene and
peaceful like with contentment and happiness. Whenever I have to confront difficulties, he
always stands by me and encourages me not to give up.
As a father, I would say he has done everything possible to raise me and my sister. He has
spent his entire life catering for our demands and looking after our interests while he went
through much hardship. His immense love and great sacrifice is an incentive for me to study
and work harder.
VOCABULARY:
1. unmatched [adjective]: better than all others : không thể sánh bằng
Eg: He had a talent unmatched by any other politician in this country.
2. bravery [noun]: the will to do things that are dangerous, difficult or painful : lòng dũng cảm
Eg: His bravery in rescuing the survivors from the crash was reported on the news.
3. resourcefulness [noun]: the ability to be good at finding ways of doing things and solving
problems : sự tháo vát
Eg: Resourcefulness is an essential quality for a good employee.
4. affection [noun]: the feeling of liking or loving sth/sb very much : tình yêu thương
Eg: Children nowadays need a lot of attention and affection.
5. motivational [adjective]: making sb want to do sth : có tính khích lệ
Eg: Her motivational support gave him strength to pass the difficult exam.
6. (to) dedicate [verb]: to give a lot of your time and effort to sth because you think it is
important : tận tụy với
Eg: He has dedicated all his life to helping poor people.

7. exemplary [adjective]: providing a good example for sb to copy : gương mẫu
Eg: Minh is the most exemplary student in our class this semester.
8. contentment [noun]: a feeling of happiness and satisfaction: sự thỏa mãn
Eg: She looked back on her teaching career with contentment when she thought of all the
students that she had helped.
9. (to) confront sth [verb]: to deal with a problem or difficult situation: đối mặt
Eg: She knew that she had to confront her fear of heights and climb the ladder.
10. hardship [noun]: a situation that is difficult and unpleasant : sự cực khổ
Eg: People had to suffer many hardships to overcome that winter.
11. sacrifice [noun]: the fact of giving up sth important or valuable to you to get or to give it to
sb else : sự hi sinh
Eg: His parents made sacrifices so that he could have a good education.
12. incentive [noun]: sth that encourages you to do sth : sự khích lệ, cổ vũ
Eg: There is no incentive to continue doing this project – our design will never be approved.
105. Describe a book that you want to read again

You should say
what the book is about
when you read it
how long you read it for
and explain why you want to read it again
ANSWER
Actually, I’m not a bookworm but sometimes, I still seek comfort in reading books, especially
fiction books. There’s a book of this type that I read when I was a child and I read it over and
over again. It has many wonders in it and always makes me absorbed in its interesting content.

The book is called “Diary of a cricket”, written by To Hoai. It is a short novel, initially written
for children. However, I believe this book is suitable for all other ages thanks to the
storytelling ability of To Hoai. The book describes the adventure of a cricket through the
world of animals and people, of the good and bad, war and peace, ideals and life purpose in
colorful yet insightful perspectives. The cricket experienced countless setbacks and
challenges but overcame them to eventually become a force of good. In general, the main
character has his own charismatic power. His adventure story is so magical and enchanting
that every page I turned tempted me to read further. The first time I read this book, I found it
extremely hard to put it down.
It is such a great book that has been translated into more than 100 languages. In my opinion, it
is a good source of bilingual books for Vietnamese children. Parents who grew up with this
story will love to enjoy it again with their children. I believe that in the company of this book,
a child, even a hyperactive one, is never going to feel bored or restless.
VOCABULARY
1. Bookworm [noun] a person who reads a lot (mọt sách)
Eg: The girl who would rather stay inside and read than go out and play is an example of a
bookworm.
2. Absorbed in sth [adjective] very interested in something and not paying attention to
anything else (say mê, chăm chú)
Eg: Simon was so absorbed in his book that he didn't even notice me come in.
3. Storytelling [noun] the art of telling stories (nghệ thuật kể chuyện)
Eg: The feasting and storytelling was over, and the crew turned in for the night.
4. Insightful [adjective] having or showing a clear, deep, and sometimes sudden understanding
of a complicated problem or situation (sâu sắc)
Eg: Her analysis of the problem was very insightful and everything became clear to me.
5. Setback [noun] a difficulty or problem that delays something or makes a situation worse
(khó khăn)
Eg: The team suffered a setback when their best player was injured.
6. Charismatic [adjective] having a personal quality to attract and impress other people (cuốn
hút)
Eg: He is a very charismatic leader who is very popular in his country.

7. Enchanting [adjective] very pleasant (làm say mê)
Eg: It's described in the guide book as "an enchanting medieval city".
8. Company [noun] the fact of being with a person or people, or the person or people you are
with (sự đi cùng, hỗ trợ)
Eg: Margot came to stay for a week as company for my mother while I was away.
9. Hyperactive [adjective] Someone who is hyperactive has more energy than is normal, gets
excited easily, and cannot stay still or think about work (hiếu động)
Eg: Hyperactive children often have poor concentration and require very little sleep.
10. Restless [adjective] unable to stay still or be happy where you are, because you are bored
or need a change (thao thức, không yên)
Eg: After 3 years in his boring job, he was feeling restless and unhappy.
106. Describe a decision made by others that you disagreed with

You should say
When it was
What it was
Why you disagreed with the decision
And explain how you persuaded them
ANSWER
Today, I’m going to tell you about a time when I went against a decision made by my family
members. This happened after I had received my university entrance exam results last year in
July. I was supposed to apply for an instution for my tertiary education and as you can
probably guess, I had a big row with my parents about choosing one.
Initially, I specialised in a foreign language, English to be specific, during my time in high
school. While I was persistent in becoming an English teacher, my parents thought that a
change of focus would do me good. They insisted that I should try my hand at economics for
a change, saying I’d be able to interact with people from all walks of life and enlarge my
circle of friends.

Though I agreed that attending a university course in economics could help enlarge my social
network as well as provide me with very marketable qualifications to embark on a well-paid
career, concentrating on what I was passionate about was a bigger priority for me. My parents
and I had a heart-to-heart talk in the course of which I persuaded them that a teaching career
was what I had set my mind on and wanted to pursue. The conflict culminated in my parents
giving in and letting me decide for myself, given my predilection for languages and the fact
that I have been majoring in English for quite some time now. I successfully applied to an
esteemed language university and am now following my lifetime dream.
Vocabulary
1. To go against something (phản đối điều gì) [phrase]: to object, disagree
Example: My mother went strongly against my decision to have a tattoo.
2. To have a big row withsomebody (cãi cọ, tranh luận với ai) [phrase]: to argue, quarrel with
somebody
Example: She had a big rowwith her boyfriend over another woman.
3. To do somebody good (có lợi cho ai) [expression]: to benefit somebody
Example: Exercising on a regular basis will undoubtedly do us good.
4. To try one’s hand at something (thử làm điều gì đó) [expression]: to try, to give something
a try
Example: I wanted to try my hand at knitting as I love hand crafting activities.
5. To enlarge one’s circle of friends (mở rộng các mối quan hệ bạn bè) [expression]: to make
more friends, to create more social connections
Example: A good way to enlarge our circle of friends is to join clubs.
6. Marketable (có thể quáng cáo, quảng bá được) [adjective] attractive to employers or
customers
Example: Science graduates generally have more marketable qualifications than graduates in
the arts.
7. Embark on (bắt đầu một điều gì khó khăn/mới mẻ) [phrasal verb] to start something new or
difficult
Example: Before embarking on this new business, make sure that you have enough money in
the bank.

8. A heart-to-heart talk (một cuộc nói chuyện, tâm sự chân thật) [expression]: a sincere and
honest talk, usually between close friends or family members
Example: I had a heart-to-heart talk with my parents about choosing my future career.
9. To set one’s mind on something (đặt điều gì đó làm mục tiêu, quyết tâm làm gì) [phrase]:
to set something as a goal, to be determined to have or achieve something
Example: I have set my mind on becoming an doctor. I’m determined to attend medicine
school.
10. To pursue something (theo đuổi) [verb]: to chase,to try to achieve something
Example: Only when one is highly motivated and persistent can they pursue their goal till the
end.
11. To culminate in something (kết thúc trong điều gì) [phrase]: to happen or exist as the final
result of a process or situation
Example: The negotiation of the two parties culminated in failure.
12. To give in (bỏ cuộc) [phrasal verb]: to give up, to quit
Example: My parents only gave in when they realized how serious I was in becoming an
actor.
13. A predilection for something (sự yêu thích đối với điều gì đó) [phrase]: a feeling that you
like something, especially something a little unusual
Example: She has a predilection for wearing clothes with bright colours, like orange or red.
107. Describe a time you had good experience in the countryside

You should say
Where it was
When it was
What you did
And explain why you liked/disliked the experience
ANSWER

Although I live in a very hectic city, I also feel attached to the countryside. Life in the rural
areas always brings me a sense of tranquility. Last summer, I got away from the
overcrowded city by spending all the time with my grandparents in the country. This
experience has been a great memory for me to look back on with fondness.
Well, as you can imagine, country life is quite different from that of the city, and living in the
countryside is sometimes really challenging. While in my city apartment, all I have to do is
just some light housework like washing dishes or cleaning the bathroom, but in the countryside
I have to take care of the garden every day and even help out with farm work. My grandparents
have instructed me to do this because it will help to develop self-reliance. Although there are
some hardships involved, finishing these tasks brings me closer to nature and I have gradually
become more adaptable to changes. Besides, without the distraction of the Internet, I found
myself more open to people around me and understand them better. I have come to realize that
alienation between humans nowadays is partly caused by the dominance of technology.
Despite getting back to my normal life in the city, I still find the time spent in the countryside
very memorable. I believe that thanks to the precious time spent in my grandparents’ country
home, I have become more mature and dependable.
VOCABULARY:
10. (be) attached to sth [adjective]: be deeply connected with/ linked with sth : gắn bó với
Eg: Among the three kids, Nhi is the most attached to her mother.
11. tranquility [noun]: the state of being quiet and peaceful : sự thanh bình 12. overcrowded
[adjective]: with too many people or things in it : đông đúc, chật chội
Eg: Minh loves the tranquility of his homeland, where he is able to relax.
12. overcrowded [adjective]: with too many people or things in it : đông đúc, chật chội
Eg: Too many people are living in overcrowded conditions in my city.
13. fondness [noun]: a feeling of affection for somebody or something: sự yêu thích cho cái
gì/ai đó
Eg: After her retirement, our teacher will be remembered with great fondness by all her
students.
14. challenging [adjective]: difficult in an interesting way that tests your ability: thách thức
Eg: Teaching is a challenging and rewarding career.
15. (to) instruct [verb]: to tell sb to do sth : hướng dẫn

Eg: You will be instructed where to go as soon as the plane is ready.
16. self-reliance [noun]: the ability to decide or do things by yourself, rather than depending
on others for help : sự tự lực cánh sinh
Eg: Rural people develop their self-reliance from a very young age due to the lack of facilities
which might provide assistance.
17. adaptable [adjective]: be able to change when necessary in order to deal with different
situations : biết thích nghi
Eg: Employees in this company have to be competent and adaptable to tackle a variety of
jobs.
18. distraction [noun]: a thing that takes your attention away from what you are doing or
thinking about: sự xao nhãng
Eg: I find it hard to work at home because there are many distractions.
19. alienation [noun]: the feeling of the lack of friendliness and sympathy: sự tách biệt
Eg: Many immigrants suffer from a sense of alienation when they first arrive.
20. dominance [noun]: the state of being more powerful, important or noticeable than other
things : sự thống trị
Eg: The dominance of social media has resulted in numerous problems.
21. memorable [adjective]: worth remembering or easy to remember : đáng nhớ
Eg: This is truly a memorable occasion, and I will always remember this day with pleasure.
22. mature [adjective]: behaving in a sensible way, like an adult : trưởng thành
Eg: Jane is really mature for her age and I think that she is the most responsible student in our
class.
107. Describe an experience in which the use of a mobile phone was not allowed
You should say
When it is
Why mobile phone is not allowed
Whether you followed the rules

And explain how you felt about the experience
ANSWER
Today I’m going to describe an occasion when mobile phones were not allowed. It was when I
took the university entrance exam, about 4 years ago.
The university entrance exam is very crucial in Vietnam as it can determine our future path,
so it is always organized in the fairest way possible. During the two-day exam, students were
not permitted to keep their mobile phones with them, let alone use them. Otherwise, they
would be disqualified from the test. The purpose was to prevent cheating, as students can
store notes in their phones or text to ask for answers. This rule was clearly stated in prior
written notifications as well as repeated by examiners on the exam days. However, to my
surprise, some students still paid little attention to it, or they underestimated its importance
as some still tried to break the rule. If the examiners had not checked every student carefully,
some students could have brought the phones with them.
Not having mobile phones apparently hit some students hard. They kept bothering others to
ask for answers. So, the examiners had to walk around to monitor and remind these students.
Unlike them, I was totally fine – the rule didn’t cause me any inconvenience because I had
studied everything carefully.
I think that this rule was indeed beneficial and should as it helped students concentrate on the
tests without being distracted by phones ringing or people calling out. More importantly, as its
main aim, it helped to keep the exam fair in order to assess students’ true ability.
VOCABULARY
1. crucial (adjective): extremely important, because it will affect other things (quan trọng)
Eg: Parents play a crucial role in preparing their children for adult life.
2. determine (verb): decide in a definite direction (quyet dinh)
Eg: His performance in the interview will determine whether he gets the job.
3. path (noun): a plan of action or a way of achieving something (con đường)
Eg: Working hard is the most certain path to success.
4. fair (adjective): treating everyone equally and according to the rules or law (công bằng)
Eg: It's not fair! He always gets more than me.

5. permit (verb): to allow somebody to do something or to allow something to happen (cho
phép)
Eg: Visitors are not permitted to take photographs.
6. let alone (idiom): used after a statement to emphasize that, because the first thing is not true
or possible, the next thing cannot be true or possible either (chưa nói đến)
Eg: There isn't enough room at the table for us, let alone any guests.
7. disqualify (verb): to prevent somebody from doing something because they have broken a
rule or are not suitable (loại khỏi)
Eg: He was disqualified from the competition for using drugs.
8. prevent (verb): to stop somebody from doing something; to stop something from happening
(ngăn chặn)
Eg: No one can prevent you from attending this meeting if you wish to go.
9. state (verb): to formally write or say something, especially in a careful and clear way (tuyên
bố, nói rõ)
Eg: The facts are clearly stated in the report.
10. prior (adjective): happening or existing before something else or before a particular time
(trước)
Eg: Please give us prior notice if you need an evening meal.
11. notification (noun): the act of giving or receiving official information about something
(thông báo)
Eg: You will receive a notification of our decision in the next week.
12. surprise (noun): a feeling caused by something happening suddenly or unexpectedly (sự
ngạc nhiên)
Eg: To everyone's surprise, the plan succeeded.
13. underestimate (verb): to not realize how good, strong, determined, etc. somebody really is
(đánh giá thấp)
Eg: Never underestimate your opponent or you will lose.
14. break a rule (expression): not follow a rule (phá luật)

Eg: He was punished for breaking school rules.
15. hit (verb): to have a bad effect on somebody/something (gây ảnh hưởng xấu)
Eg: His death didn't really hit me at first, but when I realised I broke down and cried.
16. bother (verb): to interrupt somebody; to talk to or distract somebody when they do not
want to talk to you (làm phiền)
Eg: Stop bothering me when I'm working.
17. monitor (verb): to watch and check something over a period of time in order to see how it
develops, so that you can make any necessary changes (giám sát)
Eg: Each student's progress is closely monitored.
18. remind (verb): to help somebody remember something, especially something important
that they must do (nhắc nhở)
Eg: I called to remind him about the party.
19. inconvenience (noun): trouble or problems, especially concerning what you need or would
like yourself (sự bất tiện)
Eg: I chose a different route to avoid the inconvenience of going through the town centre.
20. beneficial (adjective): having a helpful or useful effect (có lợi)
Eg: Work experience is usually highly beneficial for students.
21. distract (verb): to take somebody’s attention away from what they are trying to do (gây
xao nhãng)
Eg: Don't talk to her—she's very easily distracted.
22. assess (verb): to make a judgement about the nature or quality of somebody/something
(đánh giá)
Eg: Interviews allow you to assess the suitability of candidates.
108. Describe a kind of foreign food you have had

You should say
What it is

Where you had it
How often you have it/ Which occasion you had it
And say if you liked the dish or not
Or
And explain why you wanted to try this dish
ANSWER
One of my favorite types of foreign foods is tteokbokki, or spicy sticky rice cake. This is a
popular Korean food made from rice cake dipped in hot and sweet chili sauce, and some
people may add spring onions, sesame seeds or fish cakes according to their own tastes. I think
this is a perfect dish for the winter, especially for those freezing cold days.
The first time I had a chance to eat tteokbokki was when I was in grade 11. It was a typical
winter day and my friends asked me if I would like to try some Korean food that could “warm
me up” right away. I was kind of free and also a bit curious as the only type of Korean food
that I’d ever tried was kimbap – you know, the Korean sushi. Anyway I said yes, and they
took me to a newly-opened Korean food stall near my school. I was awestruck once I saw the
dish – it was full of chili sauce and I myself was not a big fan of very spicy foods. I seriously
struggled a lot to eat that dish. It took me quite a long time to clean my plate and I had to drink
lots of water while I was eating. But something strange happened: I kind of missed the taste of
that dish some weeks later. And you know what, the more I ate it, the better it tasted to me! It
was like I grew quite addicted to tteokbokki in a sense.
And well, it’s been several years and I still like this dish very much. I still eat it now and then,
and I seriously would highly recommend it to everyone who can eat spicy foods.
VOCABULARY:
Dip [verb] (nhúng) To put something quickly into a liquid and take it out again.
e.g. Dip these strawberries into chocolate sauce – they will taste delicious.
Sesame [noun] (vừng) A tall annual herbaceous plant of tropical and subtropical areas of the
Old World, cultivated for its oil-rich seeds.
e.g. I bought some bread today, covered with sesame seeds.

Newly [adverb] (mới/gần đây) Only just; recently
e.g. If I continue with this newly acquired skill of holding my breath, I may still survive.
In a/one sense [expression] (theo một cách nào đó) By a particular interpretation of a
statement or situation
e.g. In one sense, his death was a relief, because he was suffering with a lot of pain throughout
his long illness.
109. Describe a holiday you want to go on in the future

You should say:
- Where this place is
- Who you would like to go with
- What you would do there
- explain why you want to go there
Well, for a future vacation, as something of an ecotourist, Da Lat city is on the top of my list.
It is a renowned destination in the south of Vietnam. I’m going to tell you some ideas about a
great vacation in Da Lat that popped up in my mind.
I would go there on my own and choose a homestay rather than a hotel in order to experience
the intimate and affectionate lifestyle of Da Lat farmers. It’s kind of community-based
tourism, which means that during my homestay, I would mingle with simple farmers who
make local agricultural products; participate in their daily activities, go to market, buy food,
cook traditional local dishes, cultivate, look after and harvest crops; study, visit local tourist
attractions and historic sites.
In short, I would become an amateur farmer. Very soon, I could be able to join new family
members to embark on harvesting agricultural products. And I would also help sort out
products prior to delivering them to wholesale outlets.
Moreover, I would be able to enjoy Da Lat’s distinctive mild climate along with misty weather
which makes this small city the ideal destination for a holiday escape away from the busy
metropolises. In terms of attractions, I would have tons of choices. The natural wonders of
Langbiang Mountain, Xuan Huong Lake, Doi Thong Hai Mo and the Valley of Love top the

list. On the cultural and historical side, Bao Dai Summer Palace, Domaine de Marie Church
and Truc Lam Monastery are the treasures that hold the rich history and culture of Da Lat and
the region.
I believe the happy days shared in Da Lat would make me want to stay forever and never have
to say farewell. And with all the knowledge and valuable experience during my stay, I would
enrich my experiences in life and be more successful.
VOCABULARY
1. ecotourist [noun] a person who goes on an organised vacation that is designed so that the
tourist damages the environment as little as possible
Eg: She is an ecotourist who spends every vacation helping on organic farms.
2. renowned [adjective] famous for something (nổi tiếng)
Eg: The region is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty.
3. pop up [phrasal verb] to appear or happen, especially suddenly or unexpectedly (bật ra, xuất
hiện đột ngột)
Eg: She's one of those movie stars who pops up everywhere, on TV, in magazines, on
Broadway.
4. affectionate [adjective] showing feelings of liking or love (yêu thích)
Eg: His books show an affectionate understanding of rural life in Vietnam.
5. mingle [verb] to mix or combine, or be mixed or combined (trộn lẫn)
Eg: The excitement of starting a new job is always mingled with a certain apprehension.
6. outlet [noun] a company or organization that sells goods of a particular type from a store or
shop
Eg: The farming cooperative have a large warehouse which is an outlet for all its products.
7. metropolis [noun] a very large city, often the most important city in a large area or country
(đô thị)
Eg: Soon afterwards he left the countryside to begin his career in the metropolis.
8. farewell [noun] an occasion when someone says goodbye (tạm biệt)
Eg: He bid us both an affectionate farewell.

110. Describe an interesting house or apartment you visited
You should say
what it looked like
how big it was
where it was located
and explain why you find it interesting
ANSWER
I’m going to talk about my uncle’s house, which I first visited when I had just graduated. It is a
palatial house which is located near the city centre.
It is a splendid house with a lovely swimming pool and a huge garage in Tay Ho District, Ha
Noi. The land area is 300 sq.m with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a living room and modern
kitchen. I have to say that is naturally illuminated, with its floor-to-ceiling windows. The
walk out deck in the back yard offers a pleasant and quiet space for the family beside the pool,
while the downstairs family room is a great place for kids or adults to play or watch movies.
The house is spacious but still cosy because it is elaborately decorated with wooden floors and
antique furniture.
The most striking thing about the house is its gigantic fish tank wall. It’s extremely eye-
catching. Right from the moment you enter the living room, you can see this unique feature.
It’s full of saltwater fish. The tank is gorgeously framed in teak to match the woodwork of the
room. My uncle said that building an aquarium into a wall was always his dream, and he made
it reality. I felt like being one of his admirers after hearing those words because I was still on
my way to purchasing my own dream – an average apartment in the city centre. I hope
someday I can tell my nephew the same thing that my uncle told me.
Vocabulary
1. palatial [adjective] A palatial house is very large and beautiful (nguy nga, lộng lẫy)
Eg: The President lives in a palatial residence, with no less than 30 rooms.
2. splendid [adjective] excellent, or beautiful and impressive (tuyệt đẹp, tuyệt vời)
Eg: It is splendid to feel the wind blowing in my face and the lively movement of my horse.
3. illuminate [verb] to light something and make it brighter (chiếu sáng)
Eg: The streets were illuminated with strings of coloured lights.

4. floor-to-ceiling [adjective] used for describing things such as windows or pieces of furniture
that are the full height of a wall. (từ sàn đến trần)
Eg: A dramatic floor to ceiling stone fireplace is the focal point in this living room.
5. cosy [adjective] comfortable and pleasant, especially (of a building) because of being small
and warm (ấm cúng)
Eg: This small living room is nice and cosy in the winter.
6. elaborately [adverb] containing a lot of careful detail or many detailed parts (nhiều chi tiết)
Eg: The dancers leading the procession were dressed elaborately in colorful costumes.
7. striking [adjective] interesting and unusual enough to attract attention (bắt mắt)
Eg: The hotel staff wore striking red and white uniforms.
8. eye-catching [adjective] very attractive or noticeable (bắt mắt)
Eg: She was very beautiful and the diamond ring on her finger was quite eye-catching.
9. unique [adjective] very special and unusual, often the only one of its type (độc đáo)
Eg: He has a unique talent for painting, so it is not surprising that he wants to be an artist.
10. gorgeously [adverb] in a very beautiful and attractive way (một cách tuyệt đẹp)
Eg: She was gorgeously dressed in the most fashionable designer clothes.
11. frame [verb] to put or make a frame or border around something (đóng khung)
Eg: I have framed my favourite photo of my parents and put it in my living room.
111. Describe the most polite person you know

You should say
who this person is
how you met him/ her
whether you enjoy his/ her company or not
and explain why do you think him/ her to be the most polite person.
ANSWER

Today I’m going to talk about my college teacher, the most well-mannered person I know.
Her name is Xuan Dung and she is my speaking teacher and thesisadvisor. She is my
favourite teacher at college because she is always nice to students and treats them with respect
rather than as someone inferior to her, as other teachers often do.
The way my teacher shows politeness is very natural, and does not seem forced at all. I have to
say her manners are impeccable. She always says “Thank you” when we do anything helpful
or hand in assignments by deadline, or greets us with ‘Good morning, how are we all feeling
today?’. When we give presentations in front of class, she is always all ears no matter how
boring they are. This really makes us feel warm and self-confident because in other classes,
other teachers sometimes pay little attention or even interrupt us. At the end of every
presentation, she will give nice feedback about both the strengths and weaknesses of each
group. This encourages us a lot. I still remember a time when she was so terribly sick that she
couldn’t come to class, she posted a notification on Facebook in which she didn’t forget to
apologize.
She is our role model for good manners, and how to be grateful/appreciative towards other
people. I’m so lucky to have such a polite and sensible teacher like her. Thanks to her, I try to
be always polite with others even when they don’t treat me well.
VOCABULARY:
1. well-mannered (adjective): having good manners (lịch sự)
Eg: My uncle is the most well-mannered gentleman I have ever known.
2. thesis (noun): a long piece of writing completed by a student as part of a university degree,
based on their own research (luận văn)
Eg: Students must submit a thesis on an agreed subject within four years.
3. advisor (noun): a person who gives advice, especially somebody who knows a lot about a
particular subject (người cố vấn)
Eg: Students can sit down with a careers advisor and discuss what to do next.
4. inferior (adjective): not good or not as good as somebody/something else (thua kém)
Eg: Women are often regarded as inferior, although public attitudes are now changing.
5. forced (adjective): not sincere; not the result of genuine emotions (giả tạo)
Eg: She said she was enjoying herself but her smile was forced.
6. manner (noun): the way that somebody behaves towards other people (thái độ, cử chỉ)

Eg: I got into trouble if I didn’t show good manners towards/toward other people.
7. impeccable (adjective): without mistakes or faults (hoàn hảo)
Eg: Her written English is impeccable and she should score 100% in the exam.
8. deadline (noun): a point in time by which something must be done (hạn cuối)
Eg: The deadline for applications is 30 April.
9. greet (verb): to say hello to somebody or to welcome them (chào)
Eg: She greeted us with a smile.
10. be all ears (idiom): to be waiting with interest to hear what somebody has to say (lắng
nghe)
Eg: ‘Do you know what he said?’ ‘Go on—I'm all ears.’
11. feedback (noun): advice, criticism or information about how good or useful something or
somebody’s work is (phản hồi)
Eg: The teacher will give you feedback on the test.
12. strength (noun): a quality or an ability that a person or thing has that gives them an
advantage (thế mạnh)
Eg: The ability to keep calm is one of her many strengths.
13. weakness (noun): a weak point in a system, somebody’s character, etc. (điểm yếu)
Eg: We all have our weaknesses, and my weakness is that I have no patience.
14. terribly (adverb): very much; very badly (rất tệ)
Eg: The experiment went terribly wrong and some people were injured.
15. notification (noun): the act of giving or receiving official information about something
(thông báo)
Eg: You will receive a notification of our decision in the next week.
16. apologize (to somebody) (for something) (verb): to say that you are sorry for doing
something wrong or causing a problem (xin lỗi)
Eg: She apologized for being late.

17. model (noun): a person or thing that is considered an excellent example of something (hình
mẫu)
Eg: He’s a model student who works hard and participates actively in class.
18. grateful (adjective): feeling or showing thanks because somebody has done something
kind for you or has done as you asked (biết ơn)
Eg: I am extremely grateful to all the teachers for their help.
19. appreciative (adjective): feeling or showing that you are grateful for something (trân
trọng, biết ơn)
Eg: My boss was very appreciative of my hard work on the new project.
20. sensible (adjective): able to make good judgements based on reason and experience rather
than emotion; useful and practical (sáng suốt, hợp lý)
Eg: Choose a sensible diet and stick to it.
112. Describe two people you know from one family

You should say:
Who they are
How you knew them
What they are like
And explain why they left an impression on you
ANSWER
I study in the same class with a couple of twins, which is really intriguing. Although the
brothers are twins and brought up by both parents, they are quite different from each other, in
terms of appearance and disposition.
At first sight, you wouldn’t even realize they are twins. While the elder looks mature and
calm, the younger one appears to be very naughty. Besides, they have dissimilar strengths and
weaknesses. The older one always has impressive scholastic performances while his brother
excels at sports and arts. More interestingly, some of our teachers were really surprised to find
out that they are twins and even did not believe the first time.

Particularly, their characteristics are not alike. The younger one is usually considered as a
rebellious boy who acts really cool. Unlike his brother, the older one is well-mannered,
considerate and sociable. However, my class likes both of them as they are both good-looking
and always take a full part in every activity. When we visit their home, we see them help their
parents do the housework or play with their younger sister. Despite significant differences,
they still get alonglike a house on fire and really care for each other. Therefore, I think no
matter how much differences and contradictions, you are still attached to your family members
and always look outfor them.
VOCABULARY:
1. intriguing [adjective]: very interesting : lý thú
Eg: These discoveries raised intriguing questions.
2. disposition [noun]: the natural qualities of a person’s character : tính tình
Eg: Linh has a cheerful disposition, which makes everybody love her.
3. mature [adjective]: behaving in a sensible way, like an adult : trưởng thành
Eg: In my opinion, Jane is very mature for her age.
4. weakness [noun]: a weak point in a system, sb’s character, etc. : khiếm khuyết
Eg: It’s very important to know about your strengths and weaknesses.
5. impressive [adjective]: making people feel admiration, because they are very large, good,
skillful, etc. : gây ấn tượng
Eg: The renowned singer gave an impressive performance yesterday.
6. excel [verb]: to be very good at doing something: rất giỏi việc gì
Eg: My sister excels at all sports, and she’s won a lot of competitions.
7. particularly [adverb]: especially : đặc biệt là
Eg: All of them were upset by his death, particularly his wife and son.
8. characteristic [n]: a typical feature or quality that sb/sth has : đặc điểm
Eg: The two groups of children have quite different characteristics.
9. rebellious [adjective]: unwilling to obey rules or accept normal standards of behavior, dress,
etc.: thích nổi loạn

Eg: Teenagers are usually rebellious and are often in conflict with their parents.
10. cool [adjective]: confident, but in a way which shows a lack of respect for other people
(ngầu)
Eg: He thinks it is cool to fool around during lessons, but his classmates don’t approve of his
behaviour.
11. well-mannered [adjective]: having good manners : hành xử tốt
Eg: Raised carefully by his parents, Minh is well-mannered.
12. considerate [adjective]: always thinking of other people’s wishes and feelings; careful not
to hurt or upset others : chu đáo
Eg: She is always polite and considerate towards her employees, allowing the time off work
when they need it.
13. significant [adjective]: large or important enough to have an effect or to be noticed : đáng
kể
Eg: Your work has shown a significant improvement, you must be working harder.
14. get along like a house on fire [expression] to have a very good relationship (chơi rất hợp
với ai đó)
Eg: My mother and my mother-in-law get along like a house on fire, they are more like best
friends.
15. look out for [phrasal verb]: to take care of somebody and make sure that nothing bad
happens to them: để mắt tới, trông chừng
Eg: My older brother used to look out for me at school, so that I was never bullied.
113. Describe an unforgettable experience you have had

You should say:
where it was
what you did
why you had this experience
and explain why you remember this experience well.
ANSWER

A few months ago, after giving the matter a lot of thought, I enrolled in a charity group to take
part in their charitable event. It took place in the winter, when poor people have to suffer from
the cold and extreme weather. Therefore, we decided to bring presents for the children in an
orphanage in a distant area. From the experience, I have learned many valuable lessons,
which I will never forget.
Only when you come into contact with homeless kids could you understand how miserable
their life is. With inadequate facilities and resources, orphans cannot get access to things that
other children have and they have to lean on each other to live day by day. In contrast, there
are many children, especially those in wealthy families nowadays who take their comfortable
life for granted and show no appreciation for their parents. Through interaction and sharing in
the day on which we organized the event, I saw many of the orphans were really resilient and
positive despite their hardships. When they saw us, they all smiled beautifully and welcomed
us with much affection and gratitude.
After the charity work, I reflected and found myself really fortunate to have a close-knit
family who always support me with love and great attention. Most importantly, I realized what
humans should really do is to share love and sympathy for others, not to pursue fame and
money relentlessly for personal purposes.
VOCABULARY:
1. extreme [adjective]: not ordinary or usual; serious or severe : khắc nghiệt
Eg: This city is notorious for its extreme weather conditions.
2. orphanage [noun]: a home for children whose parents are dead : trại mồ côi
Eg: Our event next year will take place at the orphanage and the children there are very
excited.
3. miserable [adjective]: very unhappy or uncomfortable: cực khổ
Eg: She led a miserable life, which was filled with misfortunes.
4. inadequate [adjective]: not enough, not good enough : không đầy đủ
Eg: The food supplies are inadequate to meet the needs of customers.
5. wealthy [adjective]: having a lot of money, possessions : giàu có
Eg: Singapore is a wealthy and developed nation.
6. (to) take sth for granted [expression]: take sth as very normal, therefore showing no
appreciation for it : coi cái gì như là điều dĩ nhiên

Eg: She used to take her parent’s care for granted, until she later realized how much they had
helped her.
7. resilient [adjective]: able to feel better quickly after sth unpleasant such as shock,
misfortunes: kiên cường
Eg: He will get over it soon because he is amazingly resilient.
8. gratitude [noun]: the feeling of being grateful and wanting to express your thanks: sự biết
ơn
Eg: She was presented with the gift in gratitude for her long service.
9. fortunate [adjective]: having or bringing an advantage, an opportunity, a piece of good
luck: may mắn
Eg: I have been fortunate enough to visit many parts of the world.
10. close-knit [adjective]: having a strong relationship with each other: khăng khít
Eg: This is a small, friendly town, which has a close-knit community.
11. sympathy [noun]: the feeling of being sorry for sb; showing that you understand and care
about sb’s problem : sự thông cảm
Eg: I have no sympathy for him because what he did is unacceptable.
12. (to) pursue [verb]: to do sth or try to achieve sth over a period of time : theo đuổi
Eg: She wishes to pursue a medical career.
114. Describe a well-paid job that you will be good at

You should say
what the job was
how you knew this job
how you feel about this job.
and explain why you think you will be good at it
ANSWER

Well, I think I will be most successful at being an English teacher. From my own perspective,
whether you receive a satisfactory salary or not largely depends on your ability, interest,
temperament and inclination.
My major is English and I’m also learning how to disseminate knowledge to others in an
effective way. Therefore, teaching English would be a suitable option, from which I can
benefit a lot. In my opinion, you will always succeed if you do what you love. Besides, as I’m
quite patient with kids, there won’t be much difficulty in teaching them. Although it can be
challenging for the first time, the experience will always be rewarding.
Practically, English is an international language, which requires one’s pursuit of this
language, if he or she wants to make substantial career advancements. In my country, where
English is not a mother tongue, the demand for learning it is omnipresent. People learn
English out of communicative, academic, diplomatic and other considerations. In fact,
numerous parents have invested a lot of money for their children to learn English, in the hope
of a better future for them. If I try to enhance my knowledge and teaching ability over time, I
believe that I will have more students and have an enviable income.
VOCABULARY:
1. perspective [noun]: a particular attitude towards sth; a way of thinking about sth : quan
điểm
Eg: His experience abroad provides a wider perspective on the problem.
2. satisfactory [adjective]: good enough for a particular purpose : thỏa mãn
Eg: Your work yesterday was satisfactory but not outstanding.
3. temperament [noun]: a person’s or an animal’s nature as shown in the way they behave or
react to situations or people : tính khí
Eg: Phuong is a dreamer and a romantic by temperament.
4. inclination [noun]: a tendency to do sth: khuynh hướng, bản năng
Eg: There is an inclination to treat geography as a less important subject.
5. (to) disseminate [verb]: to spread information, knowledge, etc. : truyền bá
Eg: Their findings have been widely disseminated by the media.
6. effective [adjective]: producing the result that is wanted or intende: hiệu quả
Eg: Putting more police officers on the streets is an effective way to reduce crime.

7. patient [adjective]: able to wait for a long time or accept annoying behavior or difficulties
without becoming angry: kiên nhẫn
Eg: Linh can become a good mother because she is very patient with children.
8. pursuit [noun]: the act of looking for or trying to find sth: sự theo đuổi
Eg: She travelled the world in pursuit of her dreams.
9. substantial [adjective]: large in amount, value or importance : đáng kể
Eg: Substantial numbers of people showed their support for the reform.
10. omnipresent [adjective]: everywhere : xuất hiện khắp mọi nơi
Eg: The mobile phone is omnipresent in this day and age.
11. (to) enhance [verb]: to increase or further improve the good quality, value or status of
sth/sb : cải thiện
Eg: This is an opportunity to enhance the reputation of the company.
12. enviable [adjective]: sth that is enviable is the sort of thing that is good and that other
people want to have too : đáng ghen tị
Eg: He is in the enviable position of having two job offers to choose from.
115. Describe a kind of weather you like

You should say:
What is the type of weather
Why it is your favorite weather
Where you can experience such weather conditions.
I guess I could begin by saying something about what the type of weather is, and I suppose I
would have to choose cloudy weather. It may sound strange as most people hate it when the
sky is full of clouds because it is dreary and sometimes it gets people down,
However, the reason why my favorite weather is when it is cloudy, windy and drizzling is that
it makes me feel calm and relaxed. I am particularly into such weather especially at night
because I can hear the little raindrops falling and see them running down my window, which
helps me to sleep. It is very pleasant.

Also, I love fog, which often comes with cloudy weather . It's very romantic and gives me a
sort of feeling like I'm in an old black and white movie. On the other hand, I don't like heavy
rains and downpours as I would probably get drenched if I got caught in the rain. And I
hate when the temperature falls below zero, it's so cold that I tend to stay indoors as much as
possible.
Probably, the type of weather I like is common for the United Kingdom and the best time to
experience it would be during the autumn there. However, in my hometown such weather only
occurs in the spring. Usually, we have dry and sunny days with occasional rainy spells.
Vocabulary:
1. Dreary: [adjective] dull and making you feel sad or bored / ảm đạm, thê lương
Example: I was living in a dreary apartment in a run-down part of town.
2. Get somebody down: [phrasal verb] Making people sad, shocked and upset / khiến ai đó
buồn
Example: The chaos in his house was starting to get him down.
3. Drizzle: [verb] rain lightly / mưa phùn
Example: It’s drizzling outside, so take your umbrella because it may rain more heavily later.
4. Raindrop: [noun] a single drop of rain / hạt mưa
Example: The first thunderclap brought down raindrops and hailstones as big as marbles.
Example: I was living in a dreary apartment in a run-down part of town.
5. Downpour: [noun] a heavy rainfall / mưa lớn
Example: A sudden downpour had filled the gutters and drains.
6. Get drenched: [expression] to get very wet / ướt nhẹp
Example: The cat got drenched as it was caught in the rain.
7. Get caught in the rain: [expression] to be outside when it rains unexpectedly / dính mưa
Example: He has a cold as he got caught in the rain yesterday.
8. Fall below zero: [expression] to become negative / nhiệt độ xuống âm
Example: In recent years, the temperature of northern Vietnam has begun to fall below zero.

9. Rainy spells: [noun phrase] periods of rainy weather / đợt mưa
Example: There are rainy spells during the summer.
116. Describe a popular place where people like to go swimming.

You should say:
Where is it it is
What it is like
Who likes to go there
Why it is a popular place for swimming
Today I’ll tell you about a place where a lot of people go to take a swim. It’s My Khe beach in
Danang, which is a coastal city in central Vietnam. Danang is dubbed one of the world’s
‘most attractive cities to live in’ and I guess one of the biggest reasons why is the breath-taking
My Khe beach. The beach isn’t private or secluded and is open to the public so it attracts
hundreds of thousands of tourists who flock there every year.
Though My Khe is not the only beach in Danang, it’s certainly a place not to be missed as My
Khe has always been extolled for its crystal clear water and fine sand dunes. Additionally,
there is a variety of recreational activities available for people coming here. There are, for
example, swimming or, for those who can’t swim, taking a dip or a stroll along the shore,
snorkeling, sunbathing and building sand castles for young children. Not only is My Khe
widely-known among domestic travellers, it has a reputation among outbound tourists as
well, so it’s fair to say that the beach is loved by all kinds of visitors.
As I was saying, My Khe is famous for its clear water and splendid beach scenery and is ideal
for both swimming and beach activities, though, like most places, we are at the mercy of the
weather. The fabulousbeach is undoubtedly the biggest reason why My Khe draws tourists
like a magnet.
Vocabulary:
1. Coastal city (thành phố biển) [noun]: a city which is situated on the coast
Example: Being a coastal city, Danang has a number of beautiful beaches.
2. To be dubbed something (được gọi là) [phrase]: to be given the name, to be called
Example: Michael Jackson is dubbed the king of pop for his numerous hit pop songs.
3. Secluded (hẻo lánh) [adj]: sheltered or screened from general activity, view, etc

Example: The cottage nestles at the foot of the mountain, secluded from the busy town.
4. To be open to the public (công cộng, ai cũng có thể đến) [phrase]: to be available for
everyone
Example: Ba Dinh square is open to the public so anyone can go there.
5. To flock (đổ xô đến) [verb]: to go to or gather at a particular place in large numbers
Example: People flocked to the cinema to see the new James Bond film.
6. To extolled for something (được ca ngợi vì điều gì) [phrase]: to be highly praised for
something
Example: The restaurant has always been extolled for its professional service and delicious
food.
7. Crystal clear (trong như pha lê) [expression]: absolutely clear; transparent; lucid
Example: The water is crystal clear. You can see all the fish and turtles if you look down.
8. Domestic traveller (khách du lịch trong nước) [noun phrase]: people who travel within their
native country
Example: The place is so remote even domestic travellers know little about it.
9. Outbound tourist (khách du lịch từ nước ngoài) [noun phrase]: a tourist from a foreign
country
Example: Being the most popular coastal city in Vietnam, Danang is well known to both native
and foreign travellers. It attracts a great number of outbound tourists every year.
10. The mercy of the weather (phải phụ thuộc vào điều kiện thời tiết) [expression]: to be
dependent on weather conditions – good or bad.
Example: We are going for a picnic on Sunday, but rain is forecast so we will be at the mercy
of the weather.
11. To draw like a magnet (có sức thu hút vô cùng lớn) [expression]: to strongly attract
somebody
Example: The arrival of the circus in the town drew people like a magnet from all of the
surrounding areas.

117. Describe an experience of good service in a shop or a restaurant.
When
Where
What
And explain why you think it was good service.
ANSWER
Let me tell about this one time I experienced exceptional service at a restaurant. It was my 18th
birthday and my family came up with the idea of celebrating the night by eating out. The first
thing to pop up into our minds was going to a fancy restaurant but somehow, we ended up
having our dinner at a reputable family restaurant nearby.
On entering the place, we were impressed by the restaurant’s cozy and homely decor as well as
the courteousness of the servers, who allocated us the limited window seats right away as a
privilege after hearing that it was my birthday. Additionally, the waiters were patient and
attentive, and we only had to wait for about 10 minutes to be served, even though we ordered
quite a lavish amount of food. Most importantly, the dishes were so succulent that we
couldn’t have imagined they were merely home food.
However, the real highlight of the meal would be the surprise discount offered by the
restaurant owner, which we refused in the end. Being able to enjoy delectable dishes while
spending quality time with my family really made my day, not to mention not havingto pay
through the nose for the experience.
Vocabulary
1. Reputable (có danh tiếng) [adj]: generally considered to be honest, reliable, and famous
Example: Harvard is one of the most reputable universities in the world.
2. Cozy (ấm cúng) [adj]: warm and comfortable, and making you feel relaxed
Example: A cozy home is the greatest comfort after a hard working day.
3. Courteousness (sự lịch sự, ga-lăng) [noun]: the quality of being polite, especially in a
formal way
Example: Hotel staff must be courteous at all times to provide the customers with the best
service.

4. To allocate somebody something (phân cho ai đó cái gì, việc gì) [phrase]: to officially
give something to someone, or to decide that something can be used for a specific purpose
Example:We allocate each student a personaltutor so that they can seek help with their studies.
5. Attentive (chăm chú, chu đáo) [adj]: behaving in a way that shows you care about someone
and are willing to help them
Example: Service at this small hotel is friendly and attentive.
6. A lavish amount of something (một lượng rất lớn, rất nhiều cái gì) [phrase]: a huge
amount of something
Example: We ordered a lavish amount of food to serve a party of 20 people.
7. Succulent (mọng và ngon) [adj]: full of juice and tastes good
Example: The hamburger was so succulent. It was juicy and absolutely delicious.
8. Delectable (ngon lành) [adj]: very pleasant, especially to eat or drink
Example: My mom is a talented cook; her dishes are always delectable.
9. To make one’s day (làm nên một ngày vui vẻ/đáng nhớ của ai đó) [expression]: To
ensure the pleasure and distinction of one's whole day
Example: Being gifted with flowers on Women’s Day really makes a girl’s day.
10. To pay through the nose for something (trả rất nhiều tiền cho cái gì) [expression]: to
pay a lot of money for something
Example: He had to pay through the nose for his new sports car.
118. Describe an outdoor activity you like to do

You should say:
What it is
Where you like to do it
How you do it
And explain why you like to do it
ANSWER

My favorite outdoor activity is jogging. It’s a kind of running at a slow or leisurely pace that
helps to build up your physical fitness. I much prefer to go jogging in open spaces like parks
or lakesides. There, you can
enjoy fresh air and watch people doing various types of physical activity such as
running, aerobic exercises, playing badminton, and so on.
I normally go jogging in the morning with my close friend either at weekends, or in

the afternoon, after a tiring schoolday. We often chat together while we’re jogging,
sharing with each other stories about school or sometimes discussing stuff that is
going viral on the Internet.
I love jogging because it’s beneficial to our health, that goes without saying, and it
does not require as much stamina as fast running . Moreover, unlike other forms of
exercise, jogging is quite easy to do and it allows me to watch people and things as I
pass by. I think it’s really relaxing and inspiring to see the world around us, watching
everyone keeping active doing their own thing and feeling part of it all when I’m
out jogging.
VOCABULARY
at a slow /leisurely pace (với nhịp độ chậm rãi) [expression] at a slow speed/
unhurriedly
Example: You can even read at a leisurely pace, as these books have no due
dates and can be returned at any time.
build up [phrasal verb] make somebody stronger and fitter

Example: I am training to build up my fitness for the race.

physical fitness (thể chât) [n] general state of health and well-being
Example: Researchers have suggested that physical fitness may play a key role
in improving the brain health and academic performance of youngsters.
various (nhiều)[a] many/ several different
Example: She spoke to various members of the club.
stuff [n] items or products in general – informal – without specifying what they
are
Example: The shop sells i-pads, laptops and stuff like that.
go viral (lan truyền) [idiom] spread quickly and widely among Internet users
Example: “Gangnam Style” is a video that went viral several years ago, even
though most of us don’t understand a word of it.
Beneficial (có lợi)[a] helpful, useful

Example: The improvement in sales figure had a beneficial influence on the
company as a whole.
goes without saying (không cần phải nói) [idiom] be generally accepted or
understood
Example: It goes without saying that you will improve your skills with practice.
require (yêu cầu)[v] need (something)

Example: Skiing at 80 miles per hour requires total concentration.

stamina [n] physical or mental strength that enables you to do something difficult
for a long period of time
Example: You need a lot of stamina to run a marathon.
doing their own thing [expression] following their own interests, without
worrying about what other people think
Example: When young people leave home to live abroad, they enjoy doing their
own thing, because they have more freedom to follow their interests.
119. Describe an occasion when you unexpectedly met someone you know.
You should say:
who it was
where you met this person
what you did when you met
and explain why you were surprised to meet this person.
ANSWER:
- Well, it doesn’t happen a lot when you unexpectedly meet someone you know. But a couple
of days ago when I was out for lunch, I bumped into a high school classmate whom I haven’t
seen since we graduated.
- I was walking along the street when I saw him standing in front of a restaurant. He hasn’t
changed a bit, so I recognized him right away. I approached him and said hi; however, it took
him a while to realize that I was his high school classmate. At that moment, I felt very
awkward. Luckily, it didn’t last long and we started to give each other a quick update about
our lives recently, such as where we are working currently, our families and, of course, we
swapped phone numbers and promised to keep in touch in future.
- Since we were both in a hurry, we didn’t spend much time chatting to each other. However,
it always feels good when you unexpectedly meet a long-lost friend. If we had had more

time, we’d probably have reminisced about our high school memories with all the crazy
things that we did back then.
VOCABULARY:
bump into: [phrasal verb] to meet unexpectedly by accident.
Example: To my surprise, I bumped into my English teacher in the supermarket.
he hasn’t changed a bit: [verb phrase] he looks or acts exactly the same.
Example: My uncle looks the same as in the photos of him 20 years ago. It‟s amazing, he
hasn’t changed a bit.
right away: [adverb] immediately

Example: This message is very urgent, so please send it right away.
awkward: [adjective] making you feel embarrassed.

Example: At the restaurant, my friend had to pay for our meal. It was an awkward situation,
because I had forgotten to bring any money !
update: [noun] a report containing the most recent information.

Example: I planned to go to the beach, so I checked on the Internet for an update on the
weather forecast.
swap: [verb] to give something to somebody and receive something in exchange.

Example: I swapped places with a man on the bus, so that I could sit near the front.
keep in touch: [verb phrase] to communicate with somebody, especially by writing or

telephoning.
Example: Most young people nowadays keep in touch by e-mailing or texting their friends.

chat: [verb] to talk in a friendly, informal way to somebody
Example: I decided to invite my friend for a coffee, so we could chat about our recent holidays
a long-lost friend: [noun] a friend that you have not seen for a long time.
Example: At the bus station, I bumped into a long-lost friend that I had not seen since my
school days.
reminisce: [verb] to think, talk or write about a happy time in your past.
Example: My father often reminisces about his years at university.
back then: [adverb] at a particular time in the past.

Example: I remember when I visited Thailand many years ago. Back then, there were very
few tourists.
120. Describe a time when (you think) someone (you know) did not tell you the complete
truth.
what the situation was: Being lied to or telling a lie to somebody is a common situation in our
daily life. I myself have experienced it before and I remember vividly one occasion when I was
a pupil in secondary school.
who did not tell you the whole truth, in what way did they not tell you the whole truth (=
what they said or did not say that was a lie) : One day, I came to class and saw that my friend
had a big bruise under her left eye. I was really worried, so I asked my friend what had
happened to her. She said that she was fine; she had accidentally hit her head on the wall that
morning. She pretended that it had been nothing more than a simple mishap.
who did not tell you the whole truth, in what way did they not tell you the whole truth (=
what they said or did not say that was a lie) : Later that day, after class, I found her crying in
the corner of the parking lot. Knowing that something terrible had occurred, I ran to her and
hugged her. She sobbed and told me that that morning her parents had been fighting and she
had tried to stop them. Somehow, her father had accidentally hit her in the face. At that
moment, I felt sorry for her although she had lied to me earlier. For the first time, I thought to

myself that, sometimes, being lied to is not that bad at all, especially when the lie is not
intended to hurt anybody.
VOCABULARY
remembered vividly = I remembered very clearly, like the experience had just happened.
bruise = a blue or brown mark that appears on the skin after somebody has been hit.
mishap = a small accident which is not serious.
hugged = put my arms around her and held her tightly to comfort her.
sobbed = cried, breathing heavily at the same time as she was crying.
thought to myself = to think about something without talking about it to anyone.
121. Describe an indoor game that you played when you were a child
You should say:
what the game was
who you played it with
how you played it
where you played it
and explain why you liked playing that game.
ANSWER:
- An indoor game that I liked to play when I was a child was badminton. It started when I was
in 6th grade. At that time, I was living near my uncle‟s house. Every morning, he would wake
me and my cousins up early and drive us to the sport center near our house.
- It was actually a badminton class, so we had teachers and other students too. We practiced
badminton here for an hour. During the summer holiday, we even stayed there for another
half an hour. Just like tennis, you can play badminton as a singles match or doubles match.
The rules are pretty much the same as tennis. The only difference is that the badminton
shuttlecock is lighter than the tennis ball, thus, it requires less strength.

- Due to my short-sightedness, I was not very good at playing this game but I enjoyed it
anyway. Firstly, it helped keep me fit. In addition, I could train my eyes to look further and
faster, and it quickened my reflexes. Last but not least, it helped me a lot in improving my
teamwork skills.
VOCABULARY:
badminton: [noun] an indoor game. Players hit a small light ball, with feathers round it, across
a high net, using a racket, like tennis.
Example: A net in badminton is much higher than in tennis, and the ball and rackets are
smaller and not as heavy.
singles match: [noun] a game in which one player plays against one opponent.
doubles match: [noun] a game in which two players play against two opponents.
Example: She won the women‟s singles gold medal in tennis in the Olympic Games. Then,
playing with her friend, they won the women‟s doubles gold medal by defeating two
American opponents.
shuttlecock: [noun] badminton uses a shuttlecock, not a tennis ball. It is very light and it has
feathers round the edge.
Example: Players hit the shuttlecock across the net in badminton.
short-sightedness: [noun] a person who can only see things if they are very close, is short-
sighted.
Example: I need glasses for reading, because of my short-sightedness.
train my eyes: [verb phrase] I developed my ability to see things quickly and accurately.
Example: The detective trained his eyes to look for small but important details at the scene of
the crime.

quickened my reflexes: playing badminton improved my ability to move and think quickly
when I played the game.
Example: Many people say that video games quicken your reflexes and you become more
expert.
122. Describe an item of electronic equipment that you would like to have.
You should say:
what it is
where you would get (buy) it from
what features it would have (or, special features you would like it to have)
and explain why you would like to have it.
ANSWER:
- Since I was very small, I have had a special interest in cooking. So, it is no surprise that,
now that I have grown up, I dream of having an oven with rings for cooking on top, which is
in very popular use overseas.
In Vietnam, this kind of oven is only sold at big electronic and appliance centers.
- Different from the normal oven, this one provides more stable and exact temperatures,
which is one of the critical factors in baking. Besides, it has four oven top elements, which is
highly convenient because it allows you to cook and bake at the same time. It also saves a lot
of space in your kitchen because it is free-standing. Another feature that I would like the
oven to have is a self-cleaning system. If you cook frequently, you will definitely appreciate
this facility. It is inevitable that when you cook, your oven/cooker will get dirty. As a result,
with the self-cleaning feature, it is much easier for us to clean.
VOCABULARY:
grow up: [phrasal verb] to develop into an adult.
Example: The children have all grown up and left home now.
appliances: [noun] a machine which is designed to do a particular job in the home, such as
cleaning or preparing food.

Example: The store sells a range of household appliances, including microwave ovens and
washing machines.
baking: [noun] the process of cooking something in the oven using dry heat.
Example: My mother loves baking – she makes bread and cakes every week in her oven.
free-standing: [adjective] not a part of or attached to something else.

Example: The cupboard was free-standing, so it was easy to move it away from the wall.
self-cleaning: [adjective] able to be cleaned without a person having to clean it.

Example: Her new oven was self-cleaning; when it was dirty it cleaned itself automatically.
facility: [noun] a special feature of a machine that enables it to do something extra.

Example: My computer has a facility for checking spelling.
123. Describe some paid work (or, a paid job) that you or a friend enjoyed doing.
You should say:
what the work was
where you did this work
who you worked with
and explain why you or your friend enjoyed doing this work.
ANSWER:
- I remembered working as an IT helpdesk assistant while I was in college and I really
enjoyed doing it.
- Although I was a business major at that time, I still applied for a position at the IT helpdesk
because it was the best- paid job on campus. As an IT assistant, I helped other students sort
out problems with their personal laptops. Besides, I assisted professors and faculties to set up

projectors, to fix printers and copy machines on campus, and anything related to technical
matters in general.
- There were 5 other students who were in the same position as me. We usually registered
work hours based on our own personal schedule, as long as the total working hours met the
job requirement. For one shift, there were usually two assistants, so that we could help each
other out if necessary.
- I loved working at the IT helpdesk for many reasons. First of all, I learned a lot about
computers and other machines. Secondly, I got a chance to talk with many people around
campus and it felt great when you were able to help somebody with their problems.
VOCABULARY
helpdesk: [noun] a service in a company or college that gives people information and help,
especially with computer problems.
Example: My university library has a helpdesk, which is very popular with students who don‟t
have much knowledge about using computers.
business major: [noun] I was studying business as the main part of my course.
Example: As she hopes to live in France, my friend is a French major at college.
IT assistant: [noun] a person with a knowledge of information technology, who uses that
knowledge to help others.
Example: As an IT assistant, my job is to help students become more expert at using their
computers.
sort out: [phrasal verb] to deal with your own, or someone else‟s, problems successfully.
Example: My car would not start, but the mechanic sorted out the problem when he arrived.

schedule: [noun] timetable, in this case the number of hours that we were required to work
each week.
Example: Chinese will be on the school schedule next year.
shift: [noun] a period of time worked by someone or a group of workers, who start work as
soon as another person or group finishes.
Example: My shift begins at 8:00 am, when the assistant who works during the night goes
home.
help each other out: [verb phrase] to help somebody, especially in a difficult situation.
Example: A lot of customers come into the store at lunch hour, but there is always an extra
assistant, so we help each other out.
124. Describe something you do that keeps you fit. (or, that helps to keep you fit)
You should say:
what it is
how often you do it
how you do it (or, how easy or difficult it is to do)
and explain how it helps to keep you fit. *
ANSWER:
- Nowadays, keeping fit is everyone’s concern and I am no exception. Since I am a full time
employee, I can’t arrange time to go to the gym as often as when I was a student. However,
in order to stay fit, I register for a hip hop class, which is held twice a week.
- Unlike running on the treadmill, dancing is more fun. It helps me burn a lot of energy. In
addition, it enhances my flexibility with a lot of stretching movements. Dancing also allows
me to work on all the parts of my body. You might look at dancers and think that dancing is
light and easy, but you are wrong. In order to be that flexible and light, dancers have to work
on their core muscles to maintain their stamina. Dancing can help burn as many as 360
calories in just an hour of intensive training.

- By maintaining a schedule of dancing twice a week, I successfully manage to keep fit. Not
only that, dancing helps me relax after a busy day at work and my mind is always fresh and
alert during and after the class.
VOCABULARY
keep fit [verb phrase] do physical exercises to improve your strength and stay healthy.
Example: Keeping fit is especially important for people who spend a lot of their time at their
desks, working or studying.
hip hop: [noun] a type of music [usually with words] played with a regular beat on electronic
instruments.
Example: Hip hop is great music for a keep-fit class, because the regular beat is perfect for
repeating physical exercises.
treadmill: [noun] an exercise machine with a moving surface that you can run or walk on,
while remaining in the same place.
Example: You can change the speed on the treadmill in the gym, for running or walking, fast
or slow.
burn a lot of energy/burn calories: [verb phrases] use up the energy that we get from our
food.
Example: Athletes burn a lot of energy, so they need a diet with lots of calories.
flexibility: [noun] the ability to bend easily when we move.

Example: Without regular exercise, older people lose their flexibility and they find it more
difficult to move easily.
stretch: [verb] to put your arms and legs out straight and contract your muscles.
Example: These stretching exercises will strengthen the muscles in your arms and legs.

core muscles: [adjective + noun] the most essential muscles in your body.
Example: Dancing is an activity which uses all your core muscles.
stamina: [noun] the physical strength that enables you to do something for a long time.
Example: The event in athletics which demands the most stamina is probably the marathon.
125. Describe a sport that you prefer to do and is a little expensive

You should say:
what it is;
how much it usually costs;
who you usually do it with;
and explain why you like to do this activity.
ANSWER
I would like to talk about one of my most favorite workout activities which does not
cost a fortune/ is affordable; that is swimming. At the weekend, I usually go to the swimming
pool near my house called Lam Son club in district 5, HCM City with my
friends.
As I am a sporty person, I am really keen on playing sports. Especially, I prefer
swimming to other sports due to its various benefits.
Firstly, in order to join in a swimming pool, it costs me only about $1 per hour. It is
a reasonable price for teenagers in general. Therefore, I can go swimming regularly
without worrying about its cost /its effect on my finances.
Secondly, swimming is extremely beneficial to my / a person’s level of health. It
builds endurance and cardiovascular fitness in order to prevent people from
suffering diseases; namely heart disease. It bulks up a healthy weight and muscle
strength.

Lastly, going swimming is a good means of recreation as it allows me to relax,
release stress and even develop new relationships.
Thanks to these advantages, I will definitely continue going swimming in the future.
VOCABULARY
Budget (noun): (ngân quỹ) the money that is available to a person or an
organization and a plan of how it will be spent over a period of time
Example: We decorated the house on a tight budget (= without much money to
spend).
Sporty (adjective): (ham mê và giỏi về thể thao)

sporty person enjoys sport and is good at it
Example: She's perfect for me, as she's both studious and sporty.
Join in (phrasal verb): (tham gia, tham dự) to take part in an activity with
other people
Example: All the members of the interviewing panel joined in with questions.
Endurance (noun): (khả năng chịu đựng) the ability to continue doing
something painful or difficult for a long period of time without complaining
Example: He showed remarkable endurance throughout his illness
Cardiovascular (adjective): (thuộc về tim và mạch máu) connected with the

heart and the blood vessels (= the tubes that carry blood around the body)
Example: cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men in the
United States, killing 321,000 men in 2013

Prevent sb/sth from doing sth (v): (ngăn chặn, ngăn cản) to stop somebody
from doing something; to stop something from happening
Example: His disability prevents him (from) driving
Bulk up (phrasal verb): (làm tăng cân, cơ bắp) to make your body bigger and
heavier, especially by gaining more muscle
Example: This season he has bulked up to 230 pounds
Recreation (noun): (sự giải trí) a way of enjoying yourself when you are
not working
Example: Emma's only form of recreation seems to be shopping
126. Describe a person who you have met before and you want to know more about
You should say:
who this person is;
when and where you met;
what you did or talked about;
and explain why you would like to know more about this person.
ANSWER
I am going to talk about a woman whom I have met before who has had a great
influence on me. She is Ms. Phoebe Tran, host of 8IELTS programs which are well -
known on Youtube currently.
I met her in a seminar about IELTS strategies in HCM City a couple of months ago.
On that day, she was a speaker sharing her experiences and tips in order to be

successful in the IELTS exam.
At this seminar, besides asking for pieces of advice in learning IELTS, I asked her
about her real life experiences, since I was extremely keen to know how she had
become a successful career woman and how much effort she has had to make to
achieve her success. She was very friendly and approachable, far more than I
expected, in fact. She was willing to share her ideas and answer all my questions. I
felt that she really wanted to inspire me by her example.
She must be one of the most energetic, inspirational speakers I have ever met so far.
Now I have sufficient confidence to overcome all obstacles and reach my goal.
She is a truly a role model for me and the young generation to look up to, and that’s
why I want to know more about her. And so I think I will continue to follow her on
the internet and when she gives lectures.
VOCABULARY
have a great influence on sth/sb: the power that somebody/something has to
make somebody/something behave in a particular way
Example: Her parents no longer have any real influence over her.
well – known: known about by a lot of people, famous

Example: His books are well known. You can find them in any bookshop in
the city.
piece of advice: an opinion or a suggestion about what somebody should do in

a particular situation
Example: My doctor gave me a useful piece of advice about drinking lots of
water in order to avoid problems with my kidneys.

career woman: a woman whose career is very important in her life
Example: She is a successful career woman and she is now the director of the
company.
approachable: friendly and easy to talk to; easy to understand

Example: Despite being a big star, she's very approachable.
sufficient: enough for a particular purpose; as much as you need

Example: Our budget is hardly sufficient to pay people, let alone buy any new
equipment.
overcome: to succeed in dealing with or controlling a problem that has been

preventing you from achieving something
Example: She overcame injury to win the Olympic gold medal.
role model: a person that you admire and try to copy

Example: We need positive role models for young women to aspire to.
look up to: admire and respect

Example: We should look up to those people who help others in the
community.
127. Describe a famous person in your country

You should say:
Who this person is

How you know this person
What this person is famous for
And explain why you like this person
ANSWER
Today I am going to talk about a famous person in my country who I have admired
since I was young. He is Professor Ngo Bao Chau.
I first heard about Ngo Bao Chau on the news 6 years ago when he received the
Fields Medal, which is often described as the mathematician’s Nobel Prize. However,
earlier in 2005, he was granted the title of professor in Vietnam, becoming the
country’s youngest professor ever.
Professor Ngo Bao Chau has been awarded the highest academic honor due to his
great mathematical research. He is best known for proving the Fundamental Lemma.
His work has achieved such a distinction that it has been listed as one of the top ten
scientific discoveries of 2009 by Time magazine.
The story of Ngo Bao Chau has inspired me considerably. I remember in an interview
after receiving the Medal, Ngo Bao Chau said that he had been studying maths out of
/due to / because of/ owing to his passion but not out of /due to / because of/ owing to
a desire to achieve. This statement impressed me a lot. Besides, another characteristic
I like regarding this professor is his persistence. During the time studying the
Fundamental Lemma, became stuck and almost failed to solve this complex problem.
Despite the difficulties, he did not choose to give up so finally he got through them.
His personality has been an inspiration for me working harder towards my dream.
VOCABULARY:
Describe as (miêu tả là) [verb] to portrait a person or a thing as something in a
more particular state.

Example: My friend described our new teacher as a middle-aged woman wearing
a thick pair of glasses.
Mathematician (nhà toán học) [noun] an expert in Maths.

Example: Isaac Newton is not only a famous physicist but also a great
mathematician whose book called Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy
became the catalyst to understanding mechanics.
Best known for (nổi tiếng về) [adjective] famous for.

Example: Nha Trang is one of interesting tourist attractions which is best known
for stunning beaches and fresh seafood.
Get over (vượt qua) [phrasal verb] to find a way to solve or deal with a difficult
problem.
Example: You will get over the illness more quickly if you relax and follow the
doctor’s instruction.
Despite (dù cho) [preposition] has a similar meaning to although or even though
and expresses a contrast between two things. It is always followed by a noun or a
noun phrase.
Example: You must keep moving forward to make a success despite
despondency.
Persistence (sự kiên trì) [noun] firm or obstinate continuance in a course of

action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

Example: Her persistence and enthusiasm have helped the group to achieve its
international success.
128. Describe something special that you saved money to buy.

You should say:
What was it
Why you bought is
How long you saved money to buy it
and explain why it was important to you to buy it.
ANSWER
I’m going to talk about the mobile phone that I’m currently using. Prior to this one, I
had used 2 or 3 phones, but they were all bought with my parents’ money, so for me
this phone has a special meaning.
About a year ago, my old phone started to deteriorate, especially its battery,
sometimes it suddenly turned itself off and its apps ran frustratingly slowly. So I
decided to buy a new one using my own money, as I thought I couldn’t keep asking
my parents to buy me all the things I want anymore.
I visited some websites to check for smartphone types, brands and prices, and finally
found the phone that I thought would meet all my needs. However, at that time, it
was quite expensive for me to afford, and I had to start saving up. I did some parttime
jobs such as working as a private tutor and interpreter to earn some extra income, and tried to
reduce the budget I spent on shopping to economize as much as
possible. During that time, I rarely bought new clothes or ate out with friends.
Finally, after nearly three months, I had enough money to buy my dream phone. At
the moment I first held it in my hands, I was extremely happy. It was not only the
feeling of owning a new technology gadget, but also the happiness of completing a
task in my to-do-list. I have kept using this phone until now and I hope it will work

well for a long time to come.
VOCABULARY
Deteriorate: to become worse.
Example: Her health deteriorated rapidly.
Frustratingly: in a way that causes you to feel annoyed and impatient because
you cannot do or achieve what you want.
Example: Progress was frustratingly slow.
Meet one’s needs: satisfy what is needed

Example: The new online course meets my needs – it is exactly what I want.
Afford: to have enough money or time to be able to buy or to do something.

Example: We can't afford to go abroad this summer.
Save up: to save money for something.

Example: I’m saving (up) for a new bike.
Budget: the money that is available to a person or an organization and a plan of

how it will be spent over a period of time.
Example: We decorated the house on a tight budget.
Economize: use less money than you normally use.

Example: I plan to economize on holidays this year by camping instead of
booking a hotel.

Technology gadget: a small technological object (such as a device or an
appliance) that has a particular function.
Example: He is interested in technology gadgets.
129. Describe your favorite movie

You should say: when and where you saw it; what type of film it was; what the film was about;
and explain why it is your favorite film
ANSWER (Trích từ đề “Describe a film you watched at home or in a cinema”)
As a frequent moviegoer, I watch a lot of films. One of the movies that I enjoyed the most
recently was The Martian. The movie was based on a novel of the same title by Andy Weir.
Just like many other sci-fi films, it was about man travelling in space, however, this time; our
main character was stuck on Mars due to a dust storm which nearly killed him. All of the
crewmates thought that he was dead, so they went back to Earth without him. But fortunately
he was still alive, thus two and a half hours of the movie told the story of how he fought for
his life in the brutal environment of Mars, until NASA devised a plan to rescue him.
My best friend is a big fan of astronomy, so she had read the novel before. That’s why she
insisted on me going to see the movie with her. After watching the trailer and reading the
plot, I was hooked. It was maybe the best two and a half hours of my week so far.
After watching the movie, I was amazed at how ingenious and strong humans can be when it
comes to a life and death situation. Mark Watney, the hero of the movie, was a perfect
portrayal of a young, humorous, brilliant and skillful engineer cum botanist. Although the
hostile environment of Mars threatened his existence many times, he relentlessly refused to
quit. Instead, he overcame one problem at a time until he was successfully rescued. The
message that I learned from the film is never to give up, however hopeless things seem to be.
VOCABULARY:
moviegoer: [noun] a person who goes to the cinema.

sci-fi: [noun] science fiction; based on imagined scientific discoveries of the future, such as
space travel or life on other planets.
Example: Sci-fi movies have become more popular since space travel has become possible.
stuck on Mars: the man was unable to escape from the planet.
Example: we were stuck in traffic and so we arrived late for work.
dust storm: [noun] a storm that carries clouds of dust in the wind over a wide area.

Example: a lot of plants die after a dust storm passes through an area.
crewmates: [noun] all the people working on a ship or, in this case, a spacecraft.
fought for his life: [verb phrase] he made a great effort to stay alive. Example: The man was
badly injured in the accident, but he fought for his life and herecovered later in hospital.
brutal: [adjective] if an environment is described as brutal this means that it is very dangerous
and it is difficult for a person to survive.
devised: [verb] NASA invented something new to rescue the man. Example: a new system has
been devised to control traffic in the city.
astronomy: [noun] the scientific study of the sun, moon, stars and planets.
trailer: [noun] a series of short scenes from a film or programme, shown in advance to
advertise it.
Example: after watching an exciting trailer, I decided to go to see the film.
plot: [noun] the events which form the story of a book, play or film. Example: the book has a
plot about a prisoner who escaped.
hooked: [adjective] enjoying something so much that you want to see or do it.
ingenious: [adjective] very clever at inventing new ideas.
Example: many ingenious researchers are working on ways to combat cancer.
portrayal: [noun] the act of describing or showing something or sb in a book, play or film.
Example: the actor gave a fantastic portrayal of a clever detective in the film.
botanist: [noun] a person who studies plants.
hostile: [adjective] a hostile environment is unsafe for humans, because there are many
dangers.
Example: in the hostile environment of the desert, you must take a lot of water with you.
threatened his existence: the many dangers and difficult conditions on Mars were a danger to
his life.
relentlessly: [adverb] in a way that continues strongly, without giving up. Example: the
soldiers relentlessly pursued their enemies after the battle.
hopeless: [adjective] without hope

Example: after searching for the lost plane for many days, the situation seemed hopeless and
it seemed that the rescuers would never find it.
130. Describe a historic event in your country

You should say
- When it happened
- Where it happened
- How do you know about it
- Why do you think it is important
ANSWER
I am going to talk about the day Ho Chi Minh President announced The Proclamation of
Independence, which was September 2, 1945. The event was held at Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi,
in front of the public.
When I was still a little kid, I heard a lot about it from my teachers, my parents, and all the
adults around me. Not only me but every Vietnamese kid, no matter when or where they were
born all grow up with the thought of September 2, 1945 as a memorable and important event;
so important that the Government made September 2 a national holiday. It is so well-known
that actually I have never met anyone who doesn’t know about it, even my classmate who is
really bad at history. To be precise, the day forms a part of Vietnamese people’s common
knowledge.
It was in my high school years when I really got to learn about this day during my History and
Literature classes. It became as clear as crystal to me why September 2, 1945 and The
Proclamation of Independence was such an important event. The Proclamation was the start of
Vietnam’s independent era. I’ve learnt that Vietnam was a colony of several countries such as
China, France and Japan, and that our country had to fight a lot to be a separate country, a
country for ourselves and finally on that day in 1945, Ho Chi Minh President – who devoted a
lot of his life to our independence – announced to not only Vietnam citizens, but also to the
whole world that Vietnam was a separate country, that we wouldn’t be controlled by others
anymore, that we would have the right to speak our language, live our lifestyle like it used to
be. My grandmother who was at Ba Dinh square that time told me that she had felt like a slave
who had finally successfully rebelled and was able to live freely. I wasn’t born at that time to
directly witness it by myself but just thinking about the time Vietnam suffered under the
occupation of other countries and reading the extremely heroic proclamation make me feel
very proud.

In conclusion, this is, in my opinion, an event that we – as Vietnamese people –
are not allowed to forget. We have to know, to remember and to appreciate it
because without it, there could be a possibility that we wouldn’t be here, living as
proper humans but as slaves of others.
VOCABULARY
The Proclamation of Independence: Tuyên ngôn độc lập
A statement that states a country is now independent, no longer a colony of any
other country.
“Ho Chi Minh President announced The Proclamation of Independence at Ba
Dinh Square.”
Memorable: đáng nhớ

Likely to be remembered or worth remembering.
“The lavish production makes this musical truly memorable.”
Common knowledge: kiến thức phổ biến, một điều mọi người đều biết.
A knowledge which is known by everyone.
“The knowlege you learn during primary school is considered common
knowledge.”
As clear as crystal: rõ ràng (nhấn mạnh)/ trong vắt, trong veo

a. Very clear, easy to understand.
“The explanation is as clear as crystal.”
a. Very clear, transparent, easy to see through.
“The stream’s water is as clear as crystal.”

A colony: thuộc địa
A country, an area controlled politically by a more powerful country.
“Vietnam was a colony of China.”
To devote: cống hiến

To give all of one’s self to somebody/ something
“Ho Chi Minh President devoted his life to the country.”
To rebel: nổi dậy

To fight against the rule, refuse to obey the rule.
“He was the kind of student who rebels against the rules of the school.”
To suffer under something/somebody: chịu đựng khổ cực vì cái gì, vì ai

To endure something bad.
“The citizens suffered badly under the rules of the cruel king.”
“I really appreciate all of you for coming here despite being busy.”
Proper: thích hợp, thích đáng, phù hợp

Satisfactory, suitable, correct.
“It’s been a while since I last had a proper meal.”
131. Describe an activity that makes you feel excited

- What the activity is
- An explain why it makes you feel excited
ANSWER

Today I’m going to talk about one of the most engaging activities I’ve got involved in. It’s
cooking. Every day after school, I would hurry home to make a simplebut tasty meal for my
parents, who enjoy my food so much that there’s always nothing left on the plates.
To some people my age,cooking can be such a nightmare, but my mom has been teaching me
how to cook since I was a little girl, so I find it just a piece of cake. I would say I’m quite a
good cook and I’m proud of this. At times I even think of applying to Masterchef. I’m best at
cooking such Vietnamese traditional food as beef noodles and spring rolls but I also try
making exoticdishes in my free time.
When I cook, both my mind and my body are so absorbed in it that I forget the surroundings.
One thing with cooking is that there are thousands and thousands of recipes to try. You may
think you know all the ways of making a certain meal, but different recipes can prove you
wrong. The excitement and nervousness when trying out a new recipe make cooking never
seem dull to me. And I feel over the moon when I see the end result.
VOCABULARY:
1. engaging [a]: interesting or pleasant in a way that attracts your attention (thú vị, cuốn hút)
Eg: It was always engaging to hear his funny stories.
2. to be/ become/ get involved in: take part in something (tham gia)
Eg: She first became involved in politics in 1998.
3. tasty [a]: having a strong and pleasant flavor (thơm ngon)
Eg: Beef noodles is a really tasty dish for your family
4. nightmare [n]: a dream that is very frightening or unpleasant; an experience that is very
frightening and unpleasant, or very difficult to deal with (cơn ác mộng)
Eg: Failing an exam is a nightmare for all students.
5. a piece of cake: a thing that is very easy to do (việc dễ làm)
Eg: Henry finds getting 10/10 in Maths just a piece of cake.
6. at times: sometimes (thỉnh thoảng)
Eg: The rain will become heavy at times in the afternoon.
7. exotic [a]: from or in another country, especially a tropical one; seeming exciting and
unusual because it is connected with foreign countries (từ nước ngoài, kỳ lạ)

Eg: She travels to all kinds of exotic locations all over the world.
8. absorbed in something/somebody [a]: very interested in something/somebody so that you
are not paying attention to anything else (chú tâm, thích thú làm gì)
Eg: She seemed totally absorbed in her book.
9. surroundings [n]: everything that is around or near somebody/something (mọi thứ xung
quanh)
Eg: I like to work in pleasant surroundings.
10. recipe [n]: a set of instructions that tells you how to cook something and the ingredients (=
items of food) you need for it (công thức nấu ăn)
Eg: I enjoy trying out new recipes.
11. prove [v]: to use facts, evidence, etc. to show that something is true (chứng minh)
Eg: They hope this new evidence will prove her innocence.
12. try something out [phrase]: to use something to discover if it works or if you like it.
Eg: I like to try out creating new dishes when my friends come round to eat.
13. dull [a]: not interesting or exciting (nhàm chán, tẻ nhạt)
Eg: Life in a small town could be deadly dull.
14. over the moon: extremely happy and excited (cực kỳ hạnh phúc)
Eg: They’re over the moon about their trip to Japan.
15. End result [phrase]: a result of a series of events or a long process.
Eg: The cooking of those ingredients gave an excellent end result.
132. Describe a piece of 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.
ANSWER
I would like to talk about a household appliance which plays an important role in my daily
life and that is a washing machine. I and my family members use it every day to wash laundry
such as clothing or sheets.
Personally, I think a laundry machine is very advantageous to me due to its convenience.
Instead of spending nearly an hour on cleaning clothing by hand, it takes me only 5 minutes to
put all the clothing in a washing machine. Moreover, my clothes washer has a large capacity
up to 10kg so I can run a load of clothing through it at one time in order to save both water and
time. As a result, I can save a huge amount of time in order to do other household chores or
even learn new things that I’m interested in; namely foreign languages or cooking.
In addition, a washing machine can dry clothing dramatically; therefore, I needn’t to worry
about wet clothing in the rainy season or winter.
I think the washing machine is one of the greatest inventions of the industrial revolution that
brings various benefits for me and other people using it.
VOCABULARY
Household appliance (noun): (đồ gia dụng) a machine that is designed to do a particular
thing in the home, such as preparing food, heating or cleaning
Ex: They sell a wide range of domestic household appliances—washing machines,
dishwashers and so on.
Laundry (noun): (quần áo cần giặt)clothes, sheets, etc. that need washing, that are being
washed, or that have been washed recently
Ex: I and my family members use washing machine every day to wash laundry such as
clothing or sheets.
Sheet (noun): (khăn, ga trải giường) a large piece of thin cloth used on a bed to lie on or lie
under
Ex: He slid between the sheets and closed his eyes.

Laundry machine = washing machine = clothes washer (noun): (máy giặt)an electric
machine for washing clothes
Ex: I ran a load of laundry through the washing machine.
Capacity (noun): (công suất, sức chứa): the number of things or people that a container or
space can hold
Ex: The theatre has a seating capacity of 2 000.
Load of sth: (lượng lớn)a large number or amount of somebody/something; plenty

Ex: Uncle Jim brought a whole load of presents for the kids.
Household chores (noun): (việc nhà) tasks that you do regularly

Ex: I'll go shopping when I've done my chores (= done the jobs in or around the house).
133. Describe an ambition that you have not yet achieved.

You should say:
What your ambition is: One of my ambitions that I have not yet achieved is to be able to
communicate in Japanese.
When you first had this ambition (or, how long you have had this ambition): I just thought
about this idea a year ago because I realized that nowadays, knowing more foreign languages
is an advantage not only in our daily lives but also in work environments.
How you plan to achieve it: In order to achieve this, I registered for a Japanese class for
beginners, twice a week. I also downloaded an application on my iPhone which helps people
study foreign languages named Duolingo, so that I can study on my own at home. For the first
two months, I did not skip any classes, and spent at least 30 minutes every night studying
Japanese on Duolingo at home.
(Possibly) what you have done towards achieving this ambition and explain why you have
not achieved it yet: Unfortunately, I could not keep up with the schedule for long since I was
working full time, not to mention that I had many other social activities that distracted me

from studying. There were days when I was so busy that I had to work overtime to finish my
job. As a result, I wasn’t able to go to class and I definitely didn’t have any time to study at
home. Moreover, my friends complained that I had been ignoring them, so I needed to
arrange time to hang out with them. Just like that, I gradually lost my ambition to study
Japanese and until now, I can only remember one alphabet table, even though Japanese uses
three types of alphabets.
VOCABULARY
ambition - a strong desire to do or to achieve something, typically requiring determination and
hard work. “Her ambition to become CEO of the company amazes her boyfriend.”
not yet achieved - to not yet reach a goal or to succeed in doing something that you really want
to do. “He has not yet achieved his goal of getting an 8 on the IELTS writing exam.”
to realize that - to become aware of something, to know or come to understand something for
the first time. “His mom didn't realize that she wouldn’t be able to visit him while he was
studying in Germany.”
to be an advantage - something that offers you a better opportunity at something is an
advantage or benefit to you. “As an employee, it is an advantage to be fluent in English these
days.”
to register for - to sign up for something like a class or workshop; to put your name on the list
and pay your money. “He has only five days left to register for the conference.”
to skip classes - to miss a class or not go to a class for some reason. “His teacher said that if he
skipped any more classes, he wouldn’t receive any credit for the course.”
to keep up with - to be able to perform at a certain level or to be able to continue to do
something as planned. “She had a difficult time keeping up with all of the homework that her
English professor gave her.”
not to mention that - used to add additional information when you are explaining why
something did or didn’t happen, used to introduce an additional fact or point that reinforces the
point being made. “She can’t go to the meeting on Friday because she is ill, not to mention that
she has already put in twice as much time as everybody else has this week.”
distracted me from - used to talk about when you go off task or stop working on something
because your attention goes elsewhere. “Her funny jokes distracted me from getting my
homework done.”

complained - to complain means to tell someone that you don’t like something for some
reason. His friends didn’t like that he wasn’t spending time with them, so they complained to
him. “His wife complained that he was working too many hours.”
to ignore someone - you ignore someone when you don’t respond to their phone calls,
messages, emails, etc., you don’t pay attention to them. “He thought I was ignoring him
because I didn’t answer his text, but I was just in a meeting and couldn’t text him back.”
to arrange - to organize or to schedule something. “She needed to arrange a time to meet with
the accountant.”
to hang out with - to spend time with someone. “They liked to hang out with their friends on
weekends.”
134. Describe an exciting sport you know.

You should say:
What sport it is: Of all the different types of sports, I am interested in figure skating the most.
How you know about it: I first learned about figure skating when I watched an Olympic
competition in 2012. I found this sport very interesting.
How difficult you think it is: I don‟t think that figure skating is a sport for everybody since it
requires great balancing skills. In addition, the person has to be very flexible and courageous
when doing this sport.
And explain why you think it is exciting: Coming from a tropical country, I don‟t get to
experience ice and snow, thus, figure skating was new to me. Watching the athlete‟s elegant
performance on ice amazed me. I couldn‟t imagine how people could do such things since
just walking with ice skates is so difficult. These athletes danced on ice without even tripping.
They must have spent a great deal of time practicing and preparing for their performances.
Also, I found it very beautiful, as their costumes were so elegant. I even enjoyed the
background music they used during the performances. In comparison to other sports, figure
skating is an amazing feast for both the eyes and the ears.
VOCABULARY
to be interested in - to like or to enjoy. “She is interested in figure skating and he is interested
in soccer.”
I found this sport to be very interesting - I thought this sport was very interesting. “He found
the work to be too easy for him.”

it requires - something that needs to be done. In this sentence it means that figure skating can
only be done by people who have good balance, and not everyone does. It‟s something
necessary to have to do well at figure skating. “This job requires you to work 60 hours per
week.”
flexible - in this context it means that the person can do many things with his/her body, like
putting your foot above your head while you are skating. “Yoga teachers are very flexible and
can get themselves into all kinds of crazy positions.”
courageous - brave. In this case you have to be brave to be a figure skater because it can be
dangerous. “The mountaineers are courageous for climbing so high.”
elegant performance - describing the performance as elegant means that you thought it was
very beautiful or gorgeous; it was pleasingly graceful and stylish in appearance or manner.
“The dancers gave an elegant performance this evening.”
amazed me - surprised or shocked me. In this case it was incredible to see the skaters do such
things. “It amazed me that he received a 9 on his first IELTS exam.”
to trip - to fall down while you are walking or running or doing something else like dancing or
skating. “She tripped and hit her head on the table. Ouch!”
a feast for the eyes and ears - something pleasant to watch and listen to. “The Taylor Swift
concert was a feast for the eyes and ears. It was incredible to watch the show and I love her
music.”
135. Describe a photograph in your home.

You should say:
what is in the photo
where this photo is in your home
how this picture was taken
and explain what this photo means to you.
ANSWER:
Like many other Vietnamese families, I have a big photograph of my family which is hung on
the wall of my living room. It is the first thing that you notice when you walk in the room.

This photo was taken a year ago on the occasion of my cousin’s wedding. It was the first time
for ages that my whole family had gathered together. Even my relatives who are living
further away came home to attend the wedding. It was possibly the first picture of my
extended family with my grandmother, all of my grandmother’s children and the in-laws, and
I have lost count of how many grandchildren are in it. It’s a brilliant photo, with everyone
smiling and laughing, taken by a professional photographer who put everyone at their ease.
As a typical traditional Vietnamese, I treasure my family. Our ties are worth more than gold.
No matter what happens, I strongly believe that my parents, my siblings and relatives will
always be on my side supporting me. Every time I look at the photograph of my loving family,
I feel blessed and proud.
VOCABULARY
for ages: [expression] a very long time.
Example: I waited for ages, because the flight had been delayed for several hours.
gathered together: [verb] it was the first time for many years that my family had all come
together in the same place, at the same time.
Example: the children were all gathered together in the garden.
extended family: [noun] a family group that includes not only parents and children, but also
aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents and in-laws.
Example: she grew up surrounded by a large extended family.
the in-laws: [noun] your relatives by marriage, especially the parents of your husband or wife.
Example: I am visiting my in-laws on Sunday [the parents of my wife and also her two sisters].
lose count of: [verb] to forget how many there are of something [because there are a lot of
them].
Example: I have lost count of how many times I have told the students to do their homework.
put everyone at their ease: [verb] the photographer made everyone feel relaxed.
Example: in the exam, the examiner put the students at their ease by being friendly and
informal.
treasure: [verb] to have something that you love and is very valuable to you.
Example: I treasure his friendship, because it is very important to me to have him as my
friend.

ties: [noun] strong connections between people
Example: the ties of friendship and family ties are the most important connections in our lives.
siblings: [noun] brothers or sisters
Example: the younger children were badly treated by their older siblings.
blessed: [adjective] fortunate, in a way that brings a feeling of peace.
Example: he was blessed with many good friends and a loving family.
136. Describe the stage of life that you have enjoyed the most.
You should say:
what stage it was
what you used to do during that stage
where you were during that stage
who you spent time with during that stage
and explain why you enjoyed that stage so much.
- Well, speaking of the stage of life that I have enjoyed the most I would say that was when I
was in elementary school.
- Since my father has 5 siblings and each of them has two children, I have many cousins who
are around my age.
- I remember that every summer, my cousins and I would get together at my grandmother’s
house. We basically lived together the whole summer holiday until we had to go back to
school.
- As we were full of energy, we could never sit still for the whole day. My grandparents
constantly got mad at us since it was too much for them to control 6 kids at the same time.
We used to run wild playing mischievous little games that we had made up. Fighting among
each other was inevitable but then things all worked out in the end.
- The older we get, the less time we spend together, because everyone has his or her own
personal life and concerns. Now, every time we have a chance to meet up, we talk about how

crazy it was when we were little, and that makes me miss my childhood a lot. It was the only
time we could really live without worrying about tomorrow.
VOCABULARY:
siblings: [noun] brothers or sisters.
get together: [verb phrase] to meet someone socially or in order to discuss something.
Example: every year, all our family get together at a restaurant for a meal and a chat.
get mad at: [verb phrase] to become angry with someone or something.
Example: my teachers used to get mad at me when I talked in class.
run wild: [verb phrase] to behave as you wish, because nobody is controlling you.
Example: In the shopping centre, a group of teenage boys were running wild until the security
guards stopped them.
mischievous: [adjective] being naughty and annoying people.
Example: Although he was a mischievous boy, when he got older he learned to be polite and
obedient.
made up: [verb phrase] invented or created.
Example: When I arrived late, I quickly made up an excuse.
inevitable: [adjective] it cannot be avoided or prevented.
Example: When the sales of the company declined, it was inevitable that some workers would
lose their jobs.
worked out in the end: [verb phrase] to finish in a successful way.
Example: There was a problem at the airport, but it was resolved and our flight took off, so it
all worked out in the end.
miss my childhood: [verb phrase] to feel sad, because you are no longer a child.
Example: I used to enjoy playing games with my friends when I was a boy, and I miss my
childhood now that I have grown up.

137. Describe a time when you did something to help someone you didn't know.
You should say:
where it happened: Today, I’m going to share with you my own story about how I helped a
stranger on the street.
who the person was: It was an elderly woman whom I met on the way while driving to work.
how you helped this person: She was trying to cross the road to go to a pagoda nearby.
Unfortunately, it was a big road with 4 lanes of traffic and it was during the rush hour. At that
time, I was driving to work, and stopped for a red light. She slowly approached me and asked
if I could take her to the other side of the road. I hesitated at first since I didn‟t know her. Well,
life in a big city is very complicated, you don‟t really know if the person you are trying to help
is good or bad. So it‟s hard to trust people these days. However, after a moment‟s hesitation, I
decided to give her a lift to the door anyway, since she was an elderly lady and I would feel
bad if I turned her down.
and explain how you felt after helping this person: When I dropped her off at the pagoda,
she thanked me and said “God bless you”. I was glad that I had made the decision to help her,
although it did not bring any dramatic change to the world! Any kind action, however small,
brings its own reward in terms of the satisfaction derived from helping others. Her gratitude
made me feel that my help had meant a lot to her and I determined that, in future, I would be
less suspicious of strangers.
VOCABULARY
elderly = old, but it is a more polite way to describe people who are old.
the rush hour = the time when the roads are full of traffic because people are travelling to or
from work.
hesitate = to be slow to speak or act because you are nervous or unsure.
give a lift = a free ride in a car [in this case, to the place where the elderly lady wanted to go –
the pagoda].
to the door = directly to the place where she wanted to go.
turned her down = I would have felt bad if I had refused to consider her request.
dropped her off = I took her to the particular place where she wanted to go, while I continued
my journey to a different place.

brings its own reward = the good moral feeling that I had from helping the lady was enough,
without expecting any payment or thanks from her.
derived from = came from.
gratitude = the feeling of being grateful and wanting to express her thanks.
meant a lot to her = my help had been very important to her.
suspicious of somebody = not willing to trust somebody.
138. Describe a subject you didn't like before but are interested in now.
You should say:
Today, I am going to share with you my experience with a subject I didn’t like before but I am
interested in now, that is maths.
In Vietnam, we had to study maths from elementary school onwards because it is one of the
compulsory subjects.
There were so many reasons why I didn’t like maths. First of all, I think my elementary teacher
failed to guide us through the exercises which we had to do step by step. She basically gave us
many types of maths problems and the solutions to each type. Consequently, I didn’t fully
understand the subject or the logic behind the solution like: how did you come up with that
particular solution but not in a different way? Secondly, she always assigned difficult problems
for us to do at home. Since I didn’t understand the lesson, I couldn’t solve a single problem. So
I was very discouraged when I tried to study maths.
It was not until high school that I started to like maths. At that time, maths was divided into
algebra and geometry. I found that I was very good at dealing with numbers. In addition, my
maths teacher was a great one. He focused on teaching us to master the basic knowledge, then
how to use basic knowledge to solve more advanced problems.
VOCABULARY
maths/math = mathematics. The American usage is „math‟, and the British use „maths‟, as a
noun and as an adjective. Both are correct, but use either the American or British form
consistently.
from.....onwards..... = starting from a particular time and continuing after that. In this case,
starting in elementary school and continuing during all the time of my education in school.

guide....through... = to explain a problem or a process so that we are able to complete it. Here,
the elementary teacher did not explain how to do maths problems clearly, so I never
understood them.
step by step = each one of a series of things which you have to do to solve a problem. The
teacher did not take us through each one of these steps to arrive at the solution.
logic = a way of thinking about something, in this case I did not understand the method of
thinking about maths problems in order to solve them.
come up with = to find, usually referring to an answer to something [like finding the solution
to a maths problem].
assign = to give a task to somebody, such as the homework which the teacher gave me.
not a single = this is a strong way to say „no‟ or „not any‟, when used in front of a noun. I was
not able to solve any problems when I did my homework.
discouraged = not confident or enthusiastic. This is how I felt when I had to study maths at
that time.
algebra = the type of maths in which letters and symbols are used to represent quantities.
geometry = this is another type of maths. It deals with the shapes of objects and measuring
lines, angles and their relationships.
139. Describe situation when a child made you laugh.

You should say:
who the child was
(when and) where it happened
what he or she did to make you laugh
and explain why you laughed.
ANSWER:
- One of my best friends has a 3-year-old baby girl; so every time we went out, she would
take her with us.
- Her little girl is such a witty kid, and she is always full of energy. As she begins to be aware
of the outside world, she asks a lot of questions just to satisfy her curiosity.

- It happened one day when we went out shopping. While her mother and I took turns trying
clothes on, she was sitting quietly on the bench. Then she looked at me and her mother and
started to express her opinions on our clothes.
- The way she talked was so funny that we couldn‟t stop laughing. She was so used to playing
with her Barbie doll that she suggested we should dress like one of her dolls. She even taught
us how to walk like models because she thought that was pretty.
- All the customers who walked in the store noticed her, even the store owner couldn‟t stop
laughing at her since she was still a baby girl, but she talked and acted like a grown-up
woman.
- That was probably the best part of the shopping trip that I will never forget.
Written by Ngoc Bach
VOCABULARY
witty: [adjective] able to say clever and funny things
Example: Everybody laughed during the lesson, because the teacher was so witty.
satisfy her curiosity: [verb phrase] to have an answer to a strong wish to know about
something
Example: My answer did not satisfy his curiosity, so he asked me for more details about what
had happened.
trying clothes on: [verb phrase] to put on clothes to see if they fit and if they look good
Example: Try these clothes on before you buy them to make sure that they are the correct
size.
models: [noun] people whose job it is to wear and show new styles of clothes
Example: The dream of many young people is to become fashion models and appear in
magazines.

grown-up: [adjective] typical of an adult
Example: The child was used to being treated in a grown-up way by his parents.
140. Describe a place where you (usually / often) go to relax. (Not your home)
You should say:
where this place is
when you go there
what you do there
who is usually there with you
and explain why you choose to go to this place to relax.
Answers:
- Today, I’m going to share with you a place where I usually/often go to relax/read and write/
hang out with my friends, which is a small café/restaurant near my company/my house
named “ABC”
- As a full-time employee/student, I have to go to work/ school 5 days a week; therefore, the
only time that I can visit this place is on weekends. I always try to make time for my little
trip to “ABC” café every Saturday or Sunday.
- The coffee house is located on a quiet street with a lot of trees planted on both sides.
Additionally, it has a patio with hanging gardens which I like very much; it makes me feel
like I’m sitting in a garden of my own.
- Separated from the hustle and bustle of the city life in Hanoi, this place allows me to sit
quietly and reflect, relaxing after a week of hard work. I can concentrate on a personal project
such as reading or writing in my journal without being interrupted by other people.
- It serves great coffee, tea, and cakes, thus, the place always smells very nice. In addition, the
employees are also friendly and helpful.
- Sometimes, I go there with my friends. Over a nice cup of coffee/tea, we share our stories
and smell the beautiful scent of the flowers. At that moment, we can escape from reality for a
little while and enjoy ourselves even more.
VOCABULARY

to share with you: in this context, to share with someone means to tell someone about
something, you are going to share some information or a story with another person; in another
context you could share an actual thing with someone, like share a meal with another person or
share something that you have, like some fireworks, with another; “I’d like to share a story
with you about my grandmother when she was a young girl.” “He doesn’t want to share the
fish he caught with us.”
hang out with my friends: to spend time with friends, talking, relaxing, visiting; “He likes to
hang out with his friends at the pizza place after school.”
therefore: used when you want to give more information or explain the reason for something;
consequently; for that reason; “I am going to be in New York next week; therefore, I’d like to
visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art.”
on weekends: use the preposition on when talking about things you do on Saturday and
Sunday, the weekend; in this case we use the plural because you are talking about weekends in
general, rather than a specific weekend; “He likes to play golf on weekends.” British English
prefers to say at the weekend or at weekends.
to make time for: to prioritize things so that you have time to do a certain thing that you want;
you have to make time for something in order to ensure that you do it, if you don’t make time
for something, you won’t do it; “He wants his father to make more time for him on weekends.”
located on a quiet street: when we are talking about the location of something we use the
preposition on, something is located on the corner, on the right or left side, on a hill, on a
mountain; you can also use in for things located in another area, like the office is located in the
building on the left side of the street or the video store is located in the mall, as in inside the
mall; “Our new restaurant is located on one of the busiest streets in San Francisco.”
Additionally: used to give more information; “Additionally, the scientists found that there
were two more species in the area that had never been discovered.”
hanging gardens: plants and flowers that are hanging in pots from the ceiling; “The hanging
gardens in the train station made the place feel very warm and welcoming, unlike most train
stations.”
Separated from: apart from, away from; in a different part of a place; “The children‟s play
area is separated from the main part of the building; it is a great place where families can take
their children to play outside.”
hustle and bustle: describes the noise and high level of activity; “My grandfather hates the
hustle and bustle of the city; he prefers the calm and quiet of the countryside.”

city life in: used to describe the activity, noise, movement of people and traffic in a city; use
the preposition in or of; “The city life in New York is famous for the variety of things you can
do while there: Broadway shows, concerts, restaurants, bars, museums and so much more.”
to reflect: to think deeply about something; “After the meeting, he needed time to reflect on
his options before making a final decision.”
concentrate on: to think about something in a focused way, without distractions; “He found it
hard to concentrate on his homework while his friends were playing video games in his room.”
writing in my journal: you use the preposition in when talking about writing in a journal or
notebook; “I like to write in my journal right before I go to bed.”
serves: in this context it is referring to what is offered at the café; it’s what a food
establishment offers to their customers; “They don’t serve meat at this restaurant because it is a
vegetarian restaurant.”
the employees: the people who work at the café or restaurant; “The employees were upset
with their boss and didn’t want to go to work.”
Over a nice cup of coffee/tea: in this context, using the word over means that you are doing
something, like visiting, while you drink a cup of tea; “We finalized our joint business venture
over dinner last night.” (This means that we finished talking about our joint business venture
while we ate dinner together.)
escape from reality: to leave the reality of something, like your life or a specific situation;
you want to escape from reality especially if reality is something that is difficult for you to
handle, like a difficult job, having lots of work to do, etc. “Many people drink alcohol to
escape from reality, though this strategy has its own problems.”
enjoy ourselves: to have fun, to have a pleasant time; “We enjoyed ourselves last weekend at
our friend’s beach house.”
141. Describe an area of science that you are interested in (medicine, psychology, etc.)
You should say:
What it is
When you started to become interested in it
What you have learned from it

And explain why you have interest in it
ANSWER
Well, I’ve been interested in psychology for quite a long time. I’m fascinated by
how the human mind works and why people behave in a particular way in various
situations. I mean, I like to figure out why they are doing a certain thing and not
something else – stuff like that !
I think it all started several years ago after I had watched a movie on criminal
psychology. I cannot recall the name right now, but it was about a guy who applied
criminal psychology to help the police solve crimes, most of which were pretty
weird. I was really impressed with the way he deduced the offender’s motives and
actions, you know, applying his professional insights to the evidence provided by the
crime scene.
From that time onwards, I have found the human mind a pretty interesting topic to
explore, and I’ve read quite a few books and articles on psychology. I think that a
knowledge of psychology is helpful in lots of ways. For example, in the world of
business you may need to negotiate with your partner or deal with a client so that a
satisfactory outcome is achieved. Then again, in marketing your products or
services, you really have to understand how consumers think and how best to
influence your target audience. And I must add that I’m really interested in
marketing, so my fascination with psychology has helped me to analyse, like you
know, sales techniques and advertising campaigns.
* The expressions underlined in bold are ways that native speakers often use to ‘fill’
a pause when speaking. They are called ‘fillers’, and they have no meaning – they
just enable you to speak more fluently.

VOCABULARY
Fascinated [adjective] very interested
Example: Because he loves Thailand, he was fascinated by the programme about
Thai cooking.
Figure out (tìm ra) [verb] think about something until you understand it or calculate
the cost of something.
Example: Have you figured out how much the trip will cost?
Criminal psychology (tâm l. học tội phạm) [noun phrase] the study of criminals’
minds and behavior.
Example: He wanted to go abroad and study criminal psychology in the USA.
Impressed with something (ấn tượng bởi) [adj] feeling admiration for
somebody/something because you think they are particularly good, interesting, etc.
Example: We were all impressed with her enthusiasm.
Deduced (suy luận) [verb] to form an opinion about something based on the
information or evidence that is available
Example: We can deduce a lot about their personality from what people choose to
buy.
Offender (tội phạm) [noun] (rather formal) a person who commits a crime
Example: Child protection groups are calling for a national register of sex offenders.

Motive [noun] a reason for doing something
Example: The police could not find a motive for the murder of the boy.
Insight [noun] an ability to see the truth about people or situations

Example: After my lecture, I hope you will have an insight into the problem of
climate change.
Target audience [noun] the particular group of people who you are trying to
influence
Example: This new designer label is aimed at a particular target audience –
teenagers.
Negotiate (đàm phán) [verb] to try to reach an agreement by formal discussion

Example: The government will not negotiate with terrorists.
142. Describe a bicycle/motorbike/car trip that is interesting

You should say:
where you would like to go;
how you would like to go there;
who you would like to go with;
and explain why you would like to go there by car, motorbike or bike.
ANSWER
I’d like to describe a travelling idea that I think would make an awesome experience. It’s a
motorbike trip to Tam Dao, a town of Vinh Phu province, which has become an attractive
place for Hanoi residents to visit at weekends and during holidays.

Tam Dao, also known as Da Lat of the North due to its cool weather around the year, is not far
from Hanoi. It’s just 70 kilometers away from our capital city, so I think it’d be sensible to
travel there by motorbike.
I think it’d be an ideal trip if we had a small group of 4 or 5 members, who all knew each other
well, as travelling companions. We would need to share a lot of common interests as well as
characteristics, you know, so the experience would be more laid-back, fun and memorable, in
my opinion.
There are several reasons why I prefer travelling by motorbike rather than by car, but most of
all, I wouldn’t want to miss the breathtaking scenery along the way. Moreover, my travelling
timeline would be more flexible if I went there by motorbike, as I wouldn’t have to worry
about being stuck in traffic jams. Last but not least, I think it would be a way to make the trip
somehow more challenging and interesting, so we would have more things to recall
afterwards.
VOCABULARY
capital city (thủ đô) [n] a city which physically includes the offices and meeting places of the
seat of government and is usually fixed as the capital by law or by the constitution
Example: Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and the country’s second largest city.
sensible (hợp lí) [adj] reasonable and practical.

Example: It’s sensible to keep a note of your passport number
Travelling companion (bạn đồng hành trong chuyến du lịch) [expression] someone you spend
a lot of time with during your trip, who accompanies you.
Example: We should also agree about money when choosing a travelling companion; it can
be pretty uncomfortable when you reach your first destination and find your companion wants
to spend on a meal way beyond your budget.
common interests (sở thích chung) [expression] similar interests
Example: Studies show that shared common interests between people boost the chances of a
lasting relationship, and also bring about a 2% increase in life satisfaction.

laid-back [adj] relaxed, without any worries
Example: I prefer a laid-back holiday, just sunbathing on the beach and listening to the sound
of the sea.
breathtaking (hấp dẫn, ngoạn mục) [adj] very impressive, exciting or surprising
Example: The view from my bedroom window was absolutely breathtaking.
143. Describe a time when it was important to tell your friend a truth. You should say:
 When it was
 Who your friend is
 What the truth was
 And explain why you think it was important to tell your friend the truth
(When it was) It is always important to be honest and sincere to our friends, and I always maintain my
honesty as much as I can. However, there was a time that I told a truth about myself that had been hidden
for years. As far as I recall, this happened during my trip to Singapore.
(Who your friend is) I went on a trip to Singapore with a couple of my friends from my neighbourhood
clique. This clique met up with my NTU Singapore clique for the first time at the NTU hall of residence.
So there were around 10 people at that time. They are all my best friends in whom I put my trust and
feel comfortable confiding.
(What the truth was) Long story short, I had a deep affection for one guy from my NTU clique. And
then we realised that we clicked with each other well. I took the opportunity of my friends’ trip to
Singapore to bring this relationship to light as I could see the likelihood of this relationship becoming
a potential marriage in the future. Before that, no one from either of my neighbourhood or NTU cliques
knew this fact.

(And explain why you think it was important to tell your friend the truth) It was important to tell
my friends this truth because it was a prerequisite for our marriage later. If we had kept that relationship
in the closet for a long time, it would have been negatively affected.
Vocabulary
1. Clique (n): nhóm bạn
There's a clique at work that never talks/who never talk to anyone else.
Có một nhốm bạn ở công ty mà không bao giờ nói chuyện với bất cứ ai khác.
2. Affection (n): tình cảm
He had a deep affection for his aunt.
Anh ấy có một tình cảm to lớn cho người cô của mình.

3. Bring something to light (phrase): đưa cái gì đó ra ánh sáng
These problems should have been brought to light much earlier.
Những vấn đề này lẽ ra nên được làm sáng tỏ sớm hơn.
144. Describe a childhood friend of yours
You should say:
Who she/ he is
When you met him/her
Where you met him/her
What you did with your friend
How you felt about the friend

(Introduction)
I have made many friends in my life and a few are very close friends. Here I would like to talk about a
friend with whom I met after 11 years losing contact.
(Who she/ he is)
Her name is Trang and she is about my age – 25 years old. She and I were class fellows since primary
school. Then her family immigrated to the Czech Republic. As we didn’t have Internet or Social Media
that time I totally lost contact with her.
(When/where you met him/her and What you did with your friend)
One year ago, when studying abroad in Holland, we suddenly found each other on Facebook. It was a
very pleasant surprise for me. I felt very happy to be in contact with an old friend from my childhood
again. We chatted for a long time and revived nostalgic memories of our school days. I remember
vividly, how she managed to be first in class every time. Back to that time, she was my favorite math
tutor. Every time I got in trouble solving a math problem, she was the one who helped me out.
(How you felt about the friend)
She told me all about her life in Czech. How beautiful the weather was, how Vietnamese live there. I
was truly fascinated to hear all that from her.
145. Describe the person you would like to become in ten years
You should say:
What kind of person you want to become in terms of different categories.
And explain what you can do to achieve your goals in the future

Introduction
Well in 2031, I will be 30 years old by then. I would like to be financially stable, stay fit and healthy.
What kind of person you want to become
Work/education wise, by that time, I'd like to be a polyglot, fluent in English, German, French, Spanish
and Japanese, to have travelled to 5 continents and be a respectable businessman by helping others to
achieve their goals. All of the three pillars of a men (wealth, health and mind), wouldn't be a problemby
then and all already fulfilled. In regards to living, I'll be moving for sure. I don't really know where. I
have some cities that are preferable, but nothing is set in stone. Relationship wise, I'm going on a first
date on Wednesday, and we'll see what happens. I doubt it'll become a thing, but who knows.
What to do to achieve it/ How do you feel
Actually, that is just what I want to be in ten years. But life is unpredictable. There is a quote from the
movie FORREST GUMP said that “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna
get.” Well in my opinion, it’s true, as many things go unplanned, and we can only expect for the best,
balance it with our efforts and actionable milestones, then we achieve our goals.
146. Describe something that you cherish

You should say:
(What is it)

Well this might sound a little vague, because I do not have something material to cherish. I cherish love
above all. Not just any love, but unconditional love.
(Why you cherish it)
Love is very powerful and soothing that it can heal people of their corrupted thoughts and make life for
others more secure than an individual who receives no love. Love makes you feel like the people who
raise you care about you. Love and encouragement also help to build the base of our self esteem.
(Who is it from)
Simply, I cherish my parents’ love even though they will one day ascend to heaven. But, because of their
love, I am secure and do not need to search for love within other people. And because of that love, I am
able to reach for the stars to my goals in life and pursue them.
(Explain why you cherish it)
For me, love is very important, it gives me the strength to move on in life with enthusiasm.
148. Describe a photo of yourself you have taken

You should say:

Where you took it
When you took the photo
How you took it
And explain how you felt about the photo.
Introduction
Well, I have an I-phone 11Pro Max, which has two cameras, along with a telephoto camera. I take many
photographs with it whenever I find anything worth capturing. However, I am not very fond of taking
selfies of myself alone.
When was it taken?

Here, I would like to talk about a group selfie, which I took with my relatives at a family reunion.
Where was it taken?

Last month, on the occasion of New Year’s holiday, all the members in our big family gathered together
in my parents’ house to have a meal. We were all dressed to our best and felt truly happy to see each
other after such a long time busy with our own work and studies.
Who took it? Or How you took it?

We were standing chatting loudly with laughter when my cousin suggested we should have a selfie
together and keep it as a memory of that day. He had a selfie stick which made our photos nicer. There
are ten of us in that pic. Including me. We all are smiling and looking very happy. This photograph came
out so nice that I have displayed it as my desktop background. Whenever I open my laptop, the memories
of that day come alive in my mind.

Explain how you felt about the photo.
I think it has rightly been said that a good photograph keeps a moment from running away.
This photograph brings a smile to my face every time I see it.
149. Describe a thing you refused to lend.

You should say
What the thing was;
Who wanted to borrow it from you;
And explain why you refused him/her.
(What the thing was)
Two years ago, when my ex-boyfriend and I had just graduated and entered the labor market, we luckily
all got full-time employment. We each earned a modest amount, with him about a grade higher than me.
(Who wanted to borrow it from you)
However, we had very different views on money. I'm frugal, he was somewhat frivolous at that time. At
the end of month, he often borrowed money from me and returned it as soon as payday came around.
(explain why you refused him/her)

However, after a while, I moved out from my parents’ house and so I had to pay a lot of bills by myself.
I had savings, but these were strictly for a house deposit. I told him that moving out would mean that I
wouldn’t be able to lend him money any more, but he asked again. I refused, and this escalated into an
argument, with him accusing me of not helping when I could, and that doing this out of principle had
hurt him. We couldn't agree, and ended up breaking up and hating each other.
150. Describe a place that you don't like

You should say:
What place it is
When it is
Why it is noisy
And explain whether you think it will be quieter and why
(What place it is)
Today I’m going to describe a noisy place that annoys me. It is Tokyo- Japan's capital, which is a dream
destination for avid travelers. It is universally known that megacities like New York, Beijing, and Tokyo
are known for being exceptionally noisy and crowded, yet they still attract a great number of tourists.
(When it is)
Last month, my family decided to choose Tokyo to visit as our holiday destination. Tokyo is Japan's
capital and the world's most populous metropolis. Today, Tokyo has become one of the world’s most
active major cities, home to cutting-edge technology, information, culture, and fashion, as well as a high
level of public safety.
(Why it is noisy)

The entire city is filled with loudspeakers, construction activities, commercial activities, and factories.
Therefore, it was too noisy sometimes for me, a person who prefers a sense of tranquility. The most
crowded place must be Shibuya crossing, the biggest and busiest crossing in Tokyo, where sometimes
1000 or more people cross the intersection at once. My family also experienced Tokyo’s crowded trains
during rush hour once, and the commotion was so bothersome.
(And explain whether you think it will be quieter and why)
Well, actually, Japan in my eyes is quite a peaceful country, so the chaos in Tokyo made me feel totally
overwhelmed. Given a chance, I would like to discover some quieter places in Tokyo to truly unwind
in one of the busiest places in the world. I’m sure there are a lot of spots like that hidden in this modern,
cosmopolitan megacity.
151. Describe an important place you like in your city.

You should say:
Where it is;
How often you go there;
What people do there;
And explain why you think it is important.
(What is this development)
I’m going to describe a recent development in my city, which is the establishment of the Vincom center.
Located in the city center, this giant 33-floor building is a complex of shopping mall, hotels and offices.
The project was initiated in September 2015 and is now reaching completion. For a small province
like my city, the advent of Vincom is undoubtedly a welcoming development.

(How could it help people)
As a shopping heaven and entertainment center, Vincom will cater to the spending and recreational
demand of local people. With a wider range of goods and services, overall consumer spending will be
strongly stimulated, which favors the provincial economy. The center will also allow foreign visitors to
purchase a greater diversity of goods, as compared to other supermarkets in the past.
(What benefits it could bring)
Well, such a huge project brings with it innumerable benefits. Firstly, the construction and operation of
Vincom will offer numerous job opportunities for the locals. Secondly, the Vincom center with its state-
of-the-art offices will also provide a modern, convenient, and professional working environment for
employees. Most importantly, the success of Vincom will lay the very foundation for other large-scale
investments in my city.
(And explain whether it changes your life or not)
Apparently, the arrival of the Vincom center should exert a far-reaching and long-term influence on
the lives of local people in plenty of ways, such as the economy, tourism. As a part of the city, I feel
really excited about this progressive turn and I believe the center will enhance people’s living standards
as a whole.
152. Describe a time that you misunderstood someone
You should say:
When this happened
What you were doing
And explain how you felt about it

(When this happened)
There was one time when I was a child, I got a severe viral fever. My dad got me to doctor in my
hometown. It was a kind of clinic with one compounder and nurse. After he checked me, the compounder
prepared some medicine and
explained the dosage to me.
(What you were doing)
In that prescription, one tablet which was a heavy dose needed to be taken once a day and he gave me
three tablets. So by misunderstanding the dosage, I took 3 tablets per day which was three times more
than the dosage I should have had.
More was yet to come, the effect of the drug overdose showed up the next day. When I got up from bed,
I felt a little pain in my neck. Then a few hours later, I noticed my head was moving to left without my
control. I tried to turn to keep it straight but failed. I asked my mother for her help and she tried to keep
my head straight but no use. She called my father who was at his office and asked him to come home.
At that time, along with my head, my mouth started to turn left.
So my dad and I immediately rushed to meet the doctor. The clinic had a lot of patients and I had to sit
there waiting for my turn. My father went inside to explain my situation. I got truly embarrassed because
everyone sitting around me looking at me wondering if I had a mental disability or something. I didnt
know whether to cry or laugh at that situation.
(And explain how you felt about it)
Finally the doctor checked my situation and gave me another medicine prescription. And thank God, I
was fully cured the next day. From that time, I have always benn careful with medicine.

153. Describe an important event that you celebrated
You should say:
- What it was
- When did it happen
- Do you prefer to celebrate it with a group of people
-And explain how you felt about it
(What is it)
Taking up scuba-diving was by far one of the most important events in my life. To be honest, I had never
been very keen on sports before, especially as far as water sports were concerned, but once I tried scuba-
diving, I completely changed my attitude towards adopting an active way of life. I had not been familiar
with the equipment that professional divers use either until one holiday in Nha Trang, when my father
came up with the idea of taking a course in scuba-diving.
(When did it happen)
It was last summer when my whole family celebrated my parents’ wedding anniversary in Nha Trang.
As the weather was unbearably hot, we wanted to travel to places with breathtaking beaches, sunshine
and delicious sea food. While we were walking alongside the beach, my father suggested I experience
scuba-diving, with the hope that I could be more physically and mentally able to confront the university
entrance examination.
(Do you prefer to celebrate it with a group of people)

Even though the feeling of immersing myself in the fresh water was self-gratifying, I also wanted to
share it with my family and my friends. Although the event is not an achievement or anything like that,
it pushed me out of my comfort zone and motivated me to overcome my inner fears. Given the chance,
I wish my close friends had been there that day to celebrate that with me.
I was a bit frightened at the beginning as I found out that such a person of weak physical strength and
stamina as me would have to put not only a tank on, but also a weight belt. But as it turned out, it was
not that intimidating at all, contrary to what I had previously thought. I found myself in cool water,
where I could breathe freely as well as move easily. The only thing I could tell anyone who does not
know whether to do something or not is: do not hesitate and try, because it may become an important
event in your life, just like it was in my case.
154. Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer. You should say:
 When it happened
 Where it happened
 Why the computer couldn’t work
 And explain how you solved the problem at last
(When it happened) I had the honour of working as a front desk agent at one of the most beautiful
resorts in Southeast Asia named JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay in July 2020. As a front desk
agent, I relied on the computer a lot as it was the place in which all the information was stored. I was
preparing for the arrival of Mr. Barack Obama while I found out that the computer I was using had
suffered from a major breakdown.
(Where it was) The computer was located right at the front desk of the resort, which was the hub of the
whole resort. I was on edge and didn’t know how I could check Mr. Obama in with the computer being

broken like this. Everything just messed up and I lost my own control and temper, starting to pour scorn
on IT associates as well as some of my front desk colleagues.
(Why the computer couldn’t work) After working around the problem, I managed to solve the issue
just 10 minutes before the arrival of Mr. Obama to the resort. I came to the realization that the OPERA
software, which was the property management system, crashed, causing the whole computer to stop
working as well. It took me quite a long time to restart the computer as well as the software.
(And explain how you solved the problem at last) I quickly got to the root of the problem. Usually,
for cases like this, there is no other choice but to press the start button on the PC until the computer is
shut down and restarts. I used this way and it turned out relatively successfully.
Vocabulary:
1. Front desk agent (n): nhân viên lễ tân
A front desk agent is responsible for checking in and checking out hotel guests.
Nhân viên lễ tân có nhiệm vụ check in và check out khách lưu trú.
2. Breakdown (n): sự cố
Their car trip was a disaster – they had frequent breakdowns and never reached their destination.
Chuyến du lịch bằng ô tô của họ là một thảm họa vì những sự cố liên tục và họ đã không đến được đích.
3. to be on edge (phrase): lo lắng

Is something wrong? You seem a bit on edge this morning.
Có gì đó không ổn hả? Bạn trông có vẻ lo lắng sáng nay.
4. to pour scorn on something/someone (idiom): chửi ai đó/cái gì đó

Critics of the president have been pouring scorn on the plan ever since it was first proposed.
Các nhà phê bình của tổng thống liên tục mắng nhiếc cái kế hoạch từ khi nó được đưa ra lần đầu tiên.
5. Crash (v): bị hư
My laptop's crashed again.
Laptop của tôi lại hư nữa rồi.
6. Root (n): nguyên nhân gốc rễ

We must get to the root of (= discover the cause of) this problem.

Chúng ta cần phải tìm ra nguyên nhân gốc rễ của vấn đề.
155 Describe a live sport event you watched. You should say:
- When it happened
- Where it took place
- Who you watched it with
- And explain how you felt about this experience
(When it happened) One of the most memorable experiences of my academic journey in the UK was
to have the honour of being invited to watch the championship match showcasing the all-time rivalry
between Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray in 2013. The UK had been thirsty for a Wimbledon trophy
for nearly a decade before Andy Murray, a Scottish tennis player, narrowly defeated Novak Djokovic to
finally bring the Wimbledon Championships host’s gloomy years to an end.
(Where it took place) This final match took place under the roof of the world renowned Centre Court,
the main court at The Championships, Wimbledon, the third annual Grand Slam event of the tennis
calendar. It is considered the world's most famous tennis court.It incorporates the clubhouse of the All
England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Its only regular use for play is during the two weeks a year that
the Championships take place. Centre Court has a premier box, known as the Royal Box, for use by the
Royal Family and other distinguished guests. It is the sixth largest tennis-specific stadium in the world
by capacity.
(Who you watched it with) I watched it with one of my closest classmates, John. John was also my
tennis buddy with whom I practised tennis every weekend at our hall’s courts. Before the match, John
predicted that Djokovic would win. However, Andy’s historic victory proved him wrong.
(And explain how you felt about this experience) It was an eye-opening experience as it was the first
time that I had attended a live sporting event and seen my idol, Novak Djokovic, in person. The thing
that made it special was that Andy Murray satisfied the country’s 77-year thirst for a Wimbledon trophy
by triumphing at the All England Club. The whole UK went crazy, creating an unforgettable
atmosphere in the final weeks of June 2013.

1. Bring something to an end (phrase): kết thúc cái gì đó
Having agreed upon the matter of payment, he brought the interview to an end.
Sau khi tiến được đến sự đồng thuận trong việc deal lương, anh ấy kết thúc buổi phỏng vấn.
2. Renowned (adj): nối tiếng

The region is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty.
Khu vực này rất nổi tiếng vì vẻ đẹp tự nhiên của nó
3. Thirst (n): khao khát

He's always had a thirst for adventure.
Anh ấy luôn có khao khát cho những chuyến phiêu lưu
4. Triumph (v): chiến thắng

I believe that sooner or later good must triumph over evil.
Tôi tin rằng sớm hay muộn thì việc thiện cũng chiến thắng việc ác.
Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer. You should say:
- When it happened
- Where it happened
- Why the computer couldn’t work
- And explain how you solved the problem
(When it happened)
156.Describe a person’s home you visited that you liked, but would not want to live in. You
should say:
- Where it is
- What it is like
- Why you visited it
- and explain why you would not like to live there

(Where it is) Today, I would like to share with you some information about the house of my best
Singaporean friend, Jia Jing, that really impresses me. It is located in one of the largest heartland
neighbourhoods in Singapore called Yishun. The thing I like most about this
house is that it bristles with many different kinds of plants and has a minimalist design.
(Why you visited it) Jia Jing invited me to a year-end party which he hosted right at his apartment.
Despite my packed schedule, I tried my best to attend the party.
(What it is like) As far as I know, his condo had just undergone a substantial transformation, from a
mediocre condo flat into a spacious, streamlined home. Arriving on his doorstep, I was greeted not by
the usual metal gate/wooden front door combo, but by a padlocked glass door that opens onto a small
foyer. Inside the apartment, a sophisticated backdrop of dark and light wood panels and mirrors is
punctuated starkly yet strikingly with Zen accents such as a bonsai tree and a Japanese lantern.
(And explain why you would not like to live there) There are two main reasons why the idea of residing
in this house has never crossed my mind. First, this house is located in Singapore, which has the highest
living costs in the world. Also, since this is a private condo, the maintenance fee residents have to pay
on a monthly basis is relatively high. Thus, living in this fancy condo is not an ideal choice for those
who are financially disadvantaged like me.
Vocabulary:
1. Bristle with (phrasal verb): rất nhiều cái gì đó
Singapore bristles with magnificent skyscrapers.
Singapore có rất nhiều nhà cao tầng đẹp.
2. Mediocre (adj): tầm thường
The film's plot is predictable and the acting is mediocre.
Câu chuyện trong cuốn phim hoàn toàn có thể được đoán trước, và kĩ năng diễn còn khá tầm thường.
3. Cross someone’s mind (phrase): suy nghĩ.

It crossed my mind yesterday that you must be short of staff.
Hôm qua tôi suy nghĩ là bạn ắt hẳn đang thiếu nhân viên.
157. Describe a time when you got close to wild animals. You should say:
 Where you were
 What the animals were doing
 Who was with you
 And explain what your reaction was
(Where you were) My first interaction with wild animals can be traced back to my primary school,
particularly grade 3. I had the chance to go on a field trip to the Saigon Botanic Garden, where various
kinds of wild animals are residing. This was a fully-funded field trip organized by my school.
(What the animals were doing) The majority of the animals were eating and sleeping, meanwhile some
other kinds of animals were enjoying their limited free time. What I love about Saigon Botanic Garden
is that it creates an open habitat for animals that bears as much resemblance to the real habitat of each
species as possible, thus this organisation has remained prestigious for many years.
(Who were with you) Because it was a school field trip, I went there with some of my classmates and
a teacher who was in charge of supervising us and carrying out research activities. The other kids were
also very excited as they got to see such kinds of animals in the near distance with the naked eye rather
than seeing them on TV or in books.
(And explain what your reaction was) I was excited, of course, as I could finally get to see dangerous
wild animals in a safe way, for both human beings and the animals themselves thanks to the effective
operation strategy of this botanic garden. However, when I saw two large pythons right next to my feet,
I nearly passed out because I was so scared.
Vocabulary:
1. Resemblance (n): sự giống nhau

They bear some resemblance to Italian figurines
Những bức tượng người này trông rất giống với những bức tượng làm ở Ý.
2. With the naked eye (phrase): bằng xương bằng thịt
We live miles away, but on a clear night, you can see the city skyscrapers with the nakedeye.
Dù ở khá xa, nhưng trong những đêm thâm vắng, bạn sẽ thấy được cả những nhà trọc trời từ bằng xương
bằng thịt.
158. Describe a time when you made a promise to someone. You should say:
- What the promise was
- To whom you made it
- Whether it was easy or difficult to keep
- And explain why you made it
(What the promise was) Some days ago, I promised to guide my boyfriend and his closest friend around
Singapore when life returned to normality after Covid-19. While I was scrolling through my old photos
in Singapore, my boyfriend caught me doing it and asked whether I would like to bring him and his
friend to Singapore next time. I said yes without hesitation. Bringing my friends to Singapore to
introduce them to its modern beauty and advanced technology, especially the world-renowned Changi
Airport.
(To whom you made it) Actually there were a bunch of people there, but I only made this promise to
my boyfriend and his closest friend. I didn’t want to bring too many people overseas as things might get
out of hand.
(Whether it was easy or difficult to keep) Since I am a tourism major and have accumulated a great
deal of experience in travelling around Singapore thanks to my 8 trips to this tiny city-state, I guess
bringing only 2 more people along with me to Singapore wouldn’t be a great deal. However, the only
thing I’m concerned about now is the lingering Covid-19 pandemic, which has brought international
travel to a halt and is yet to show any sign of slowing down.

(And explain why you made it) Singapore is always an ideal destination for a short weekend getaway
for Vietnamese people as it is only two hours from Vietnam. Also, thanks to my knowledge about
Singapore, I can be sure that if I ever make this promise, I know the likelihood of me going back on my
word is low and that I won’t make me, my boyfriend and his friend disappointed.
1. Guide (v): hướng dẫn

The shop assistant guided me to the shelf where the gardening books were displayed.
Trợ lí cửa hàng hướng dẫn tôi đến tủ sách về việc làm vườn.
2. Normality (n): sự bình thường

Now that the civil war is over, relative normality has returned to the south of the country.
Bây giờ thì cuộc nội chiến đã kết thúc, sự bình thường đã trở lại với miền Nam của đất nước.
3. Hesitation (n): ngần ngại

I have no hesitation in recommending Ms Shapur for the job.
Tôi đề cử cô Shapur cho công việc một cách không ngần ngại.
4. Out of hand (phrase): mất kiểm soát

He went to see his doctor because he felt his drinking was getting out of hand.
Anh ấy đi bác sĩ vì cảm thấy việc uống rượu của anh ấy đã dần trở nên mất kiểm soát.
5. Lingering (adj): dai dẳng

She says she stopped seeing him, but I still have lingering doubts.
Cô ấy nói cô ấy đã hết gặp anh ấy, nhưng tôi vẫn có nhiều nghi ngờ dai dẳng về vấn đề này.
6. Bring something to a halt (phrase): tạm dừng cái gì đó

Severe flooding has brought trains to a halt on several lines in Scotland.
Lũ lụt nghiêm trọng đã tạm dừng một số chuyến tàu ở Scotland.
7. Go back on someone’s word (phrase): thất hứa

You made a commitment to support our project, and now you've gone back on your word!
Bạn đã hứa là sẽ cam kết ủng hộ dự án của chúng tôi, nhưng bây giờ bạn lại thất hứa!
159. Describe a time when you needed to use your imagination. You should say:
- What the situation was
- Why you needed to use your imagination
- What the difficulties were about it
- And explain how you felt about it
(What the situation was) I have had the chance to meet Jia Jing, a student from one of the most
prestigious universities in the world – Nanyang Technological University, who I think is the most
creative person I’ve ever got to encounter so far. I met Jia Jing during an outreach programme in
Vietnam. He was in the same group as me, meaning that we worked together a lot. We were mainly in
charge of teaching activities.
(Why you needed to use your imagination) We decided to look for a new method to teach English
well. Since we received some negative feedback from the students on our lesson plan as some wanted
to play games while some others were interested in studying. Jia Jing came up with an idea of sticking
pieces papers around the walls as children were required to find a paper that has a word and another
paper that has a photo of that word and combine these two together.
(What the difficulties were about it) We didn’t encounter too many problems. However, the most
important thing was that it was somehow a bit difficult to persuade naughty children to study. As we had
to teach two classes comprising of two different age groups, we struggled a lot in planning lessons since
there was a big gap between the levels of English proficiency of the students in each class.
(And explain how you felt about it) It was a great success for me although the amount of money I
received from the project remained very low.
1. Encounter (v): gặp gỡ/biết đến
She was the most remarkable woman he had ever known.

Cô ấy là người nổi bật nhất mà anh ấy từng biết đến/gặp được
2. Proficiency (n): sự thành thạo
A high level of oral proficiency in English.
17. Describe a person you enjoy visiting but you don’t want to live with him or her
You should say
Who this person is
When you would like to visit him or her
What he or she does
And explain why you don’t want to live with him or her
(Who this person is)
Today, I’m going to describe a person whom I enjoy visiting but would rather not live with. It’s Mr Son,
whose family lives opposite to the apartment I am living in with my parents. Mr Son is a lawyer while
his wife, Mrs Ngoc, is a school teacher. I find this couple really amiable, benevolent and respectable.
Both of them are highly educated, and thus they know the value of living together in a family. They also
exercise all the other necessary customs for living peacefully in a family.
(When you would like to visit him or her)
When I have free time and want to seek some advice from someone I trust, I would pick Mr Son.
Whenever my family have quarrels over trivial things, I want to contact him and see his peaceful family.
Both Mr Son and his wife spend a lot of time with their daughter and son and all members get on well
with each other. They put a great emphasis on maintaining a complete balance with everything. For all
such reasons, they appear to be a perfect family to me and I like them very much.

(What he or she does)
Well, Mr Son’ family is always highly friendly and helpful towards neighbors, which endears
themselves to most people. They like to greet new tenants of the apartment complex and on such an
occasion, my family got to know them. Despite being occupied with plenty of tasks, Mr Son still
dedicates time to asking after my family whenever we chat.
(And explain why you don’t want to live with him or her)
Much as I love them and respect them, I think I cannot live with him and his family. For one, that would
add burden to Mr Son, as he and his wife has a daughter and a son to cater for. For another, my presence
would make a substantial adjustment to their living routines or family activities, so I would love to visit
Mr Son and his family rather than live with them.
Vocabulary:
1. amiable [adj]: pleasant; friendly and easy to like: đáng mến

Eg: Her parents seemed very amiable.
2. benevolent [adj]: kind, helpful and generous: bác ái, nhân ái
Eg: I love my mother’s benevolent smile the most when she helps others.
3. quarrel [n]: an angry disagreement between people, groups, or countries: sự tranh cãi
Eg: They had a bitter quarrel about/over some money three years ago and they haven't spoken to each
other since.
4. get on (well) with [expression]: to have a pleasant relationship with someone; to be friends with
someone: hòa thuận với ai
Eg: I've always gotten on with Amanda—I think she's very nice.
5. put an emphasis on [expression]: concentrate on sh: chú ý vào việc gì đó
Eg: His parents put a great emphasis on his academic performances.
6. endear oneself to sth [v]: make sb like oneself, sth: khiến ai yêu thích
Eg: His courtesy endears himself to other girls in he class.

7. cater for sb/sth [v]: to provide the things that a particular person or situation needs or wants:
phục vụ cho
Eg: The class caters for all ability ranges.
8. adjustment [n]: a small change to make sth better: sự điều chỉnh
Eg: Some adjustments to the plan may be necessary.
160. Describe a time when you encouraged somebody to do something that he/she didn’t want to
do
You should say:
Who it was
When it happened and why he/she didn’t want to do it
How you encouraged him/ her
(Who it was)
Without doubt, good friends are especially important during times of crisis and turbulence. Today, I’m
going to describe a time when I encouraged my best friend, Thao Linh, to overcome difficulties to
achieve her parents’ long-held goal. We have known each other since high school and maintained this
special bond till now. Thao Linh is a bright, carefree girl whose most special traits are a cheerful
disposition and unflinching resilience.
(When it happened and why he/she didn’t want to do it)
I remember ever since high school, Thao Linh has frequently been urged by her parents to try to win a
prize in the National Contest for gifted students. Apparently, this is a cumbersome challenge for all
students and Linh was so overwhelmed by the thought of failing that she could not concentrate on

studying for the competition. In fact, she confided in me that as she was eliminated in the last round in
grade 11th and had to wait for the next year- which was also her last chance.
(How you encouraged him/ her)
At that time, I was always beside Linh and I tried to tell her that things would become brighter and she
was strong enough to confront such a challenge. Therefore, instead of being disappointed and
demotivated, Linh displayed a firm commitment to try harder, not only for herself but also to meet her
parents’ expectations. As a result, in grade 12, she made a substantial improvement and won a place in
the school team for the National Contest and eventually won the second prize in the contest. Even though
it was her who received the prize, I felt the same joy to have cheered her up and sailed her through both
emotional and academic setbacks.
Vocabulary:
9. turbulence [n]: a state of confusion without any order: sự xáo trộn

Eg: The era was characterized by political and cultural turbulence.
10. long-held [adj]: held (assumed, proposed, believed etc.) for a long time: có từ lâu
Eg: Her long-held belief betrayed her.
11. unflinching [adj]: not frightened of or not trying to avoid something dangerous or unpleasant:
không chùn bước
Eg: It is a brave and unflinching account of prison life.
12. cumbersome [adj]: difficult to do or manage and taking a lot of time and effort: nh ọn
nhằn, khó khăn
Eg: Critics say that the process for amending the Constitution is cumbersome, but others defend
it.
13. overwhelmed [adj]: to be "overwhelmed" means to get so much of something that it
becomes a problem: bị choáng ngợp

Eg: We are overwhelmed with data from every quarter, and our capacity to fi lter fact from
fraud is limited.
14. confide [v]: to tell something secret or personal to someone who you trust not to tell anyone else:
tâm sự
Eg: As sisters, they have always confided in each other.
15. eliminate [v]: completely remove or get rid of (something): loại bỏ
Eg: A move towards healthy eating could help eliminate heart disease.
16. substantial [adj]: large in amount, value or importance: đáng kể
Eg: Substantial numbers of people showed their support to the reform.
17. commitment [n]: the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc.: sự cam kết
Eg: Customers believe in the company's commitment to quality.
18. setback [n]: something that happens that delays or prevents a process from developing: sự trở
ngại
Eg: There has been a slight/temporary setback in our plans.
161. Describe the first day of school
You should say:
Where it was?
What happened?
Explain how you felt on that day?
(Where it was?)
I spent many years in school, but the first day of college was truly a memorable experience for me. After
a nerve-racking period of waiting for the university entrance test result, I finally became a college
student and started my new higher education journey .

(What happened?)
On the first day I came to school, I found everything was so much bigger and a lot more crowded than
my high school. It took me more than 15 minutes to find my class, and the spacious room with many
other students made me feel a bit out of place. Everyone had a strange face to me, and people did not
talk much to each other. I chose a corner in the classroom to feel more at ease. That day was just the
first day of class, so the teacher gave us time to get to know each other. Moreover, she organized a wide
range of activities, which catered for students with different interests, preferences and talents. Most
activities involved team work, which is great to strengthen established friendships and also to develop
new friendships by connecting students with those in other classes.
(Explain how you felt on that day?)
Contrary to my thoughts, most of them were very friendly and outgoing. They were willing to share
about themselves, and soon I became acquainted with a lot of people. Most of our classmates came
from different provinces, so we quickly understood the difficulties of living away from home. After the
introduction, the teacher took us on a tour around the school, and I tried my best to memorize the different
areas. We did not have a fixed classroom, but for each subject we had to move to different rooms to use
the proper equipment for that class. I quickly took notes in my little note book, and after that brief visit
I made friends with two lovely pupils. That year was completely different from the school years I had
experienced, as it marked a big turning point in my life. The first day of college is truly a vivid memory,
and I will always remember that remarkable milestone.
Vocabulary from Education:
 higher education:
Meaning: education, usually in a college or university that is followed after high school or secondary
school
Example: Higher education is only suitable for those committed enough to learning.
Other vocabulary:

19. nerve-racking [adj]: something that is nerve-racking is difficult to do and causes a lot of
worry for the person involved in it: làm căng thẳng
Eg: My wedding was the most nerve-racking thing I've ever experienced.
20. (feel/ be) at ease [expression]: feel relaxed: cảm thấy thoải mái, dễ chịu
Eg: Jessie felt completely at ease when being with her family.
21. spacious [adj]: (especially of a room or building) having ample space: rộng lớn
Eg: The hot el has a spaci ous l ounge and TV room
22. strengthen [v]: make or become stronger.: mạnh hơn, làm vững mạnh
Eg: Positive reinforcement is the delivery of a stimulus that strengthens the behavior.
23. (get/ be/ become) acquainted with sb/sth [expression]: knowing or being familiar with a person:
quen với ai đó, cái gì
Eg: Janie tried her best to become acquainted with the rules.
24. contrary to [expression]: in conflict with: trái ngược với
Eg: Contrary to orders, he set out alone.
25. a vivid memory [expression]: memory that produces very clear pictures in your mind: kí
ức sống động
Eg: Until now, Jane still has vivid memories about her first love.
162. Describe a computer/phone game you have enjoyed playing since your childhood
You should say:
What it is
What it is like and how you playing it
And why you enjoy playing it

(What it is)
Since I was young, I have loved playing games on computers and mobile phones. I think playing games
is a great way to relieve stress and it also helps sharpen some important skills. Today, I would like to
talk about a game called Super Mario which has not only been my favorite game but also youngsters’
throughout their childhood.
(What it is like and how you play it)
Super Mario is a video game released in 1965 by Nintendo systems. It had a really simple and reusable
concept that drove fans wild. The game is set within the Mushroom Kingdom with the main character
being Mario and sometimes accompanied by his brother Luigi. Mario’s main objective is to rescue
Princess Peach who has been kidnapped by Bowser but sadly Peach is always “in another castle”.
(And why you enjoy playing it)
I was first introduced to Super Mario Bros. when my cousin brought his new Nintendo to a sleepover.
My father and I were immediately hooked. I didn’t know at the time that video games were teaching me
more than how to rescue princesses from evil dragon turtles. The lesson of a video game is that failure
is not the end of the road. Failure is merely the first step on a journey toward success. Failure is the
freedom to engage with the new ideas and strategies that ultimately lead to success. Besides, I find
Mario and the many characters in the game to be simple yet quite compelling. The same can be said for
the stories in the games as well. The gameplay is usually quite refined. I also enjoy the very colorful
look and feel of the games.
Vocabulary:
26. relieve [v]: cause (pain, distress, or difficulty) to become less severe or serious.: làm dịu đi
Eg: The drug was used to promote sleep and to relieve pain

27. sharpen [v]: make or become sharp or sharper: mài dũa
Eg: The company is cutting production costs in an attempt to sharpen its competitive edge
28. accompany [v]: to go with someone or to be provided or exist at the same time as
something: đồng hành với
Eg: Depression is almost always accompanied by insomnia.
29. objective [n]: something that you plan to do or achieve: mục tiêu
Eg: Her main/prime objective now is simply to stay in power
30. merely [adv]: used to emphasize that you mean exactly what you are saying and nothing more.:
chỉ
Eg: I wasn't complaining, I merely said that I was tired.
31. ultimately [adv]: finally, after a series of things have happened: cuối cùng
Eg: Ever yt hi ng wi ll ulti m at el y depend on what is said at t he m eet ing wit h the
di rect ors next week.
32. compelling [adj]: evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible
way: hấp dẫn, thú vị
Eg: She gave a compelling and intensely dramatic performance.
33. refined [adj]: improved because of many small changes that have been made: đư ợc làm
cho tốt hơn
Eg: Her perform ance yest erda y was refined.
163. Describe something important to you that your family has had for a long time.
You should say
What it is
When and how your family had it
How your family got it

And explain why it is important for your family
(What it is)
On my 18th birthday, I was gifted with a Dell laptop and ever since, it has been of indispensable
importance to me. I got it about a year ago and the laptop is still in good shape. I had a very basic
knowledge of computers but after I got this laptop, I acquired a wider range of knowledge and skills.
The laptop was a black color thin one with a 16-inch display and less than a kilo in weight. I usually
spend 2-3 hours daily on my laptop and it is very helpful for me to learn using the graphics designing
and Auto CAD software I am currently working on.
(When and how your family had it)
The laptop was from my parents, so it represents a lot of significance to me and them. Realizing my
passion for computers, they tried to set aside money by working overtime and bought it for me when I
turned 18. Because they have quite a limited understanding of technology, they did a lot of searching for
the best laptop for my convenience. I still remember the feeling when receiving this meaningful present,
one which filled me with surprise and gratitude. Although the laptop seemed affordable to most
families, it cost a fortune to my family at that time.
(And explain why it is important for your family)
This gift is very important for me and my family. In today’s world, the knowledge of computing and the
related skills are really vital and that’s why it is an important gift for me. Moreover, the laptop was quite
handy for me. I could search the internet, get help for my studies and learn many new things from it. I
connect to the internet using this laptop and I can communicate with my friends and relatives easily.
Needless to say, the laptop helps me a lot with my higher studies as well as the career I am pursuing,
which is computer engineering. Even though I have bought a new one for my job, my family have still
kept it to remember how difficult life was at that time and to appreciate everything we have to work hard
to earn.

Vocabulary:
34. indispensable [adj]: something or someone that is indispensable is so good or important

that you could not manage without it, him, or her: không th ể thiếu được
Eg: Hi s long experi ence at the Uni t ed Nat ions m akes him i ndi spensabl e t o t he t alks .
35. in good shape [expression]: if someone or something is in shape, or in good shape, they
are in a good state of health or in a good condition: ở trong điều kiện tốt
Eg: This car isn't in good shape.
36. acquire [v]: to get something: đạt được
Eg: He has acquired a reputation for being difficult to work with.
37. graphics [n]: images and designs used in books, magazines, etc.: đồ họa
Eg: Fractals are used in the study of things like forked lightning and to produce some types of computer
graphics.
38. set aside [v]: to save for a particular purpose: để dành
Eg: He sets aside some time every day to read to his children.
39. gratitude [n]: the feeling or quality of being grateful: sự biết ơn
Eg: Take this as a token of my gratitude for all your help.
40. handy [adj]: useful or convenient: tiện, có ích
Eg: First-time visitors to France will find this guide particularly handy.
41. relative [n]: a member of your family: họ hàng
Eg: The children are being cared for by a relative.
42. pursue [v]: If you pursue a plan, activity, or situation, you try to do it or achieve it, usually over
a long period of time: theo đuổi cái gì
Eg: We need to decide soon what marketing strategy we should pursue for these new products.
43. computer engineering [n]: a discipline that integrates several fields of computer science and
electronics engineering required to develop computer hardware and software: ngành kĩ thuật máy
tính

Eg: In many institutions, computer engineering students are allowed to choose areas of in-depth study
in their junior and senior year
164. Describe a person who you think wears unusual clothes
You should say:
Who this person is
What his/her clothes are like
And explain why you think his/her clothes are unusual
People around the world wear different sorts of clothes on special occasions and due to geographical
location and seasonal changes, the attires vary. Most often, I would dress casually, except at social
events which require a higher level of formality, where suits and formal shoes would be indispensable
items for my overall appearance. And if you ask me to think of a person whose choices of clothes are
quite peculiar, the name of Josh, my close friend, springs to mind.
What kind of clothes does he/she wear?
Well, I find his taste of fashion somewhat bizarre because he doesn’t follow the usual clothing norms.
For example, once I saw him wearing sandals with formals, or in a red or pink suit which was to the
amazement of his colleagues. When being asked by colleagues about his unique and sometimes girlish
style, he expressed that he just wears things according to his own will.
And explain why you think his/her clothes are unusual
According to John, his mother is a fashion designer, so he has been exposed to unconventional styles of
clothing and clothing brands since he was young. Therefore, he likes to experiment with clothes and

never fails to keep up with the latest fashions. The reason why I consider his clothing unusual is
because most often, men approach their dress with a casual, simple style with dark and neutral colors.
However, John goes against the established rules, with complete confidence and energy. Despite all, he
has an excellent physique and ideal height, so he frequently receives commendation for his fashionista
image. Every time I see his clothes, I feel like I wouldn’t wear them, but I also feel that he is looking
good, if not captivating in them.
Vocabulary:
44. attire [n]: clothes, especially of a particular or formal type: áo quần, trang phục
Eg: I hardly think jeans are appropriate attire for a wedding.
45. indispensable [adj]: something or someone that is indispensable is so good or important that you
could not manage without it, him, or her: không thể thiếu được
Eg: This book is an indispensable resource for researchers.
46. spring to mind [expression]: to come quickly into your mind: hiện ra trong tâm trí
Eg: Say the word "Australia" and a vision of beaches and blue seas immediately springs to mind.
47. bizarre [adj]: very strange and unusual: kì lạ
Eg: That party was too bizarre for me!
48. girlish [adj]: girlish behaviour or characteristics are typical of a girl: gi ống con gái
Eg: His eyelashes were long and girlish.
49. colleague [n]: one of a group of people who work together: đồng nghiệp
Eg: We're entertaining some colleagues of Carol's tonight.
50. brand [n]: the name of a product produced or sold by a particular company: nhãn hàng, thương
hiệu
Eg: It was to become the leading brand of specialty coffee in North America.
51. keep up with the latest fashion [expression]: dress in the latest fashion: bắt kịp xu hướng thời
trang
Eg: Jessica always keeps up with the latest fashion, which never disappoints her fans.

52. commendation [n]: praise, or an official statement that praises someone: sự khen ngợi
Eg: Several of the firefighters received commendation for their bravery.
53. captivating [adj]: holding your attention by being extremely interesting, exciting, pleasant, or
attractive: thu hút
Eg: Her voice was utterly/absolutely captivating.
165. Describe a time when you had to wait in a long line of people
You should say:
When it was
Where and why you waited in line
How you felt
(When it was)
Day in day out, people have to wait for many things. The moment they step out from their home to
commute to work, they are made to wait for a bus, or hindered by the traffic lights and congestion.
Today, I’m going to describe a time when I had to wait in a long line of people. It was a year ago when
Christmas and New Year time were closely approaching. On a Sunday evening, I went to a supermall
near my home to do some necessary shopping. I spent almost 45 minutes on picking up all the essential
items and the number of items I purchased was more than usual.
(Where and why you waited in line)
While shopping, I noticed that many people were buying items for the Christmas and New Year
celebrations. Due to this, the crowd seemed a bit larger than usual. However, as soon as I reached the
checkout point, I was bewildered. I had no idea how large the queue in this shopping mall could be!

There were more than 5 checkout points but each of those was surprisingly crowded. I could not decide
which queue to stand in. Strangely, people behind me were forcing me to go ahead and I had no other
alternatives but to stand in the nearest queue. I actually counted the number of people who were also
waiting in my queue ahead of me. It was probably 21 or 22 and I got quite anxious to leave the shopping
mall as soon as possible. The cash registers and the salespersons were very busy and most of the
customers' shopping carts were full.
(How you felt)
At some point in my waiting in this long queue, I thought to put back my items on the shelves and leave
the shopping mall. After 30 minutes or so, I started playing games on my mobile phone. I did so for
about half an hour and then I noticed that the line in front of me had become smaller. The air was filled
with the aroma of the festive time, which partly calmed me and after approximately 25 minutes, I paid
my bill and the salesgirl wished me merry Christmas. I did the same and she apologized for the long
queue. I told her that I understood and it was not a problem for me. However, for some, queuing
discomforts them, and some even go to great lengths to take other’s positions. Some customers behind
me even got infuriated about such a prolongation. As soon as I got back to my car and started the engine,
I felt much better and I was happy to finally have my shopping done!
Vocabulary:
54. day in day out [expression]: everyday: ngày qua ngày

Eg: Da y i n da y out , m y fat her t akes m e to school.
55. hinder [v]: to make it difficult for sb to do sth : cản trở

Eg: Some teachers feel hindered by a lack of resources.
56. congestion [n]: the state of being crowded and full of traffic: sự tắc nghẽn giao thông
Eg: Congestion and pollution are Ho Chi Minh City’s problems.
57. approach [v]: to come near or nearer to something or someone in space, time, quality, or amount:
sắp đến

Eg: We could just see the train approaching in the distance.
58. bewilder [v]: cause (someone) to become perplexed and confused: làm hoang mang
Eg: His decision bewildered her.
59. alternative [n]: one of two or more available possibilities: phương án khác
Eg: Audiobooks are an interesting alternative to reading
60. aroma [n]: a distinctive, typically pleasant smell.: mùi hương
Eg: The delicious aroma of fresh bread wafted out of the bakery.
61. discomfort [v]:to make sb feel anxious and uneasy: gây bất tiện
Eg: My mother was greatly discomforted by the new regulations.
62. go to great lengths [expression]: + to do sth: to put lot of effort to do sth(usually in a negative
way): làm với bất cứ giá nào
Eg: This famous singer goes to great lengths to keep her life private.
63. prolongation [n]: the act of making sth last longer: sự kéo dài
Eg: The prolongation of human life is always desirable.
166. Describe a time when you waited a long time for a person.
You should say:
When and where it happened
Who you were waiting for
Why you had to wait for them
(When and where it happened)

Today, I’m going to describe a time when I had to wait for a long time for a person. Recently, I had to
wait for one of my teachers at university. I had to wait for two long hours continuously to see him.
(Who you were waiting for)
I had to wait to meet Mr Tim, a professor of psychology at Kansas University. In fact, he was my mentor
and supervisor for my thesis for my last year. On that day, I had to submit my thesis report to him for
final checking before the official submission to the department. He asked me to meet him in the morning
but he himself arrived quite late at the university. Later he expressed his regrets for the unprecedented
delay. In fact, he came really late. Some other students also had to wait like me before his chamber in
the university compound.
(Why you had to wait for him)
As per our conversation on the telephone, Mr Tim told me to be in his chamber at around 10 am.
Accordingly, I reached the university before it was 10 am. When I reached his office, I found it was
locked and he had not arrived yet. When I made a phone call to him, it was unattended. The other students
there also tried to reach him but he did not respond. He finally came to the university when it was almost
noon. He explained the reasons behind his lack of punctuality. Actually, he was in a bit trouble with his
wife and had her hospitalised immediately for an abdominal disorder. So, that was why he was late, he
explained.
Of course, waiting can sometimes be a nuisance in our life, especially in these days when people seem
more impatient with things. Luckily, during this wait, I still remained calm and unhurried, because I
was aware that the Professor had helped me appreciably and some incidents might have hindered his
arriving on time for the meeting. Following his directives, I submitted the thesis and passed the course,
and I actually feel very grateful for his assistance.
Vocabulary:

64. continuously [adv]: without interruption or gaps: liên tục
Eg: He played continuously for minutes on end without appearing to take a breath.
65. submission [n]: the action of presenting a proposal, application, or other document for
consideration or judgment: sự nộp bài
Eg: Reports should be prepared for submission at partners' meetings
66. unprecedented [adj]: that has never happended: chưa từng có
Eg: This situation is unprecedented in modern times.
67. punctuality [n]: the habit of arriving or happening at the time that has been agreed: s ự
đúng hẹn, đúng giờ
Eg: There is a bonus scheme for employees who show good performance and punctuality.
68. hospitalise [v]: admit into a hospital: nhập viện
Eg: Mother had to be hospitalized because her blood pressure was too high
69. disorder [n]: a state of confusion: sự rối loạn
Eg: She was diagnosed with a rare nerve disorder that can cause paralysis of the arms.
70. nuisance [n]: a situation that is annoying or causes troubles or problems: sự phiền phức
Eg: It’s a nuisance to be stuck in the traffic jam for hours on end.
71. unhurried [adj]: relaxed and not rush for time: thong thả, ung dung
Eg: Sometimes I admire his unhurried lifestyle.
72. appreciably[adv]: considerably: đáng kể
Eg: The risk of infection is appreciably higher among children.
73. hinder [v]: to make it difficult for sb to do sth: cản trở
Eg: Some teachers feel hindered by a lack of resources.
167. Describe a toy you like in your childhood

You should say
- What the toy was
- Who gave it to you

- How you used this
- And explain how you felt when you got this toy
(What the toy was)

Although I have received numerous toys, the one I treasure the most was a Lego car. I can’t remember
exactly how old I was, but I was probably about eight or nine. Back in those days, before the latest
advances in technology, Lego was one of the most desirable toy brand names for children of my age,
to the extent that every kid would cast envious glances at their peers who possessed a Lego toy. I guess
that Lego has become obsolete and has been superseded by computerised playthings today.
(Who gave it to you)
It was a birthday gift from my parents. Even though I lived in a dual-income family, a Lego car was
still considered an extravagant thing at that time. To hold a birthday party for me and afford the gift,
my parents sacrificed a portion of their savings, because they knew I really wanted to have that car for
my toy collection.
(How you used this)
The special thing about this car was that I had to build it myself out of hundreds of pieces of Lego. The
pieces came in a box with a picture of the finished car on the front, and I had to put all the pieces together
in the correct way. This was not an easy task ,because the car even had an engine, movable seats and
gears. It took me a day or two to make, which required a lot of concentration. When the car was finished
it looked great, and I felt a sense of accomplishment.
(And explain how you felt when you got this toy)
As a kid that time, I was on cloud nine to receive such a gift. Honestly, that Lego car was beyond my
wildest expectations, as I thought that only rich kids were supposed to get toys like that. Most
importantly, I was extremely grateful to my parents, who always gave me unconditional and
immeasurable love.
Vocabulary
• CÁC TỪ THUỘC CHỦ ĐỀ: Technology
1. advances in technology

Meaning: improvements or developments in technology
Example: Recent advances in medical technology are making a great contribution to the search for a
cure for Aids.
2. (to) become obsolete
Meaning: to be no longer used because something new has been invented
Example: Technological innovation is now so rapid, that even the latest electronic devices soon become
obsolete.
3. (to) be superseded by
Meaning: to be replaced by something which is better or newer
Example: The latest technological innovations are usually superseded by new and more advanced
devices.
• CÁC TỪ THUỘC CHỦ ĐỀ: G. Family and Children (sách collocations)

1. a dual-income family
Meaning: a family where both the father and mother work
Example: Changes in society have resulted in the dual-income family becoming the most common
family type.
Dịch đại ý
A dual-income family: gia đình có 2 thu nhập
Nghĩa: gia đình có cả mẹ và cha cùng đi làm có thu nhập
Ví dụ: Những thay đổi trong xã hội dẫn tới việc gia đình có 2 thu nhập đang là loại gia đình phổ biến
nhất.
• CÁC TỪ KHÁC:
1. (to) treasure [verb]:
Meaning: to highly value sb/sth : trân quý, coi trọng cái gì
Example: Liz treasured all her happy memories of her years at high school.
2. desirable [adjective]:
Meaning: that you would like to have or do; worth having or doing: đáng mong muốn, thèm khát

Example: The house has many desirable features, and lots of people would love to buy it.
3. envious [adjective]:
Meaning: wanting to be in the same situation as somebody else; wanting something that somebody else
has: ghen tị
Example: Minh saw the envious look in the other boy's eyes when he won the prize.
4. (to) possess [verb]:
Meaning: to have or own something: sở hữu
Example: Belgium was the first European country to possess a fully-fledged rail network.
5. extravagant [adjective]:
Meaning: costing a lot more money than you can afford or is necessary : xa xỉ, quá đắt đỏ
Example: That diamond ring was such an extravagant present that she could not receive it.
6. a sense of accomplishment [expression]:
Meaning: a feeling of success in sth or when you complete sth: cảm giác mãn nguyện
Example: Graduating from high school gave Matty a sense of accomplishment.
7. on cloud nine [expression]:
Meaning: extremely happy : cực kì sung sướng, ở tận mây xanh
Example: Minh was on cloud nine when he heard that he had passed the exam.
8. beyond one’s wildest expectations [expression]:
Meaning: unexpected, unbelievable: không tưởng tượng được
Example: Receiving such a prestigious scholarship was beyond her wildest expectations.
9. (to be) grateful to [adjective]:
Meaning: feeling or showing thanks because somebody has done something kind for you or has done as
you asked: cảm thấy biết ơn
Example: I am extremely grateful to all the teachers for their help.
10. immeasurable [adjective]:
Meaning: too large, great, etc. to be measured: quá to lớn, không thể đo đếm được
Example: Her contribution to the success of the project was of immeasurable importance.

168. Describe an interesting conversation with a stranger
Who this person was
What the conversation was about
Why you had this conversation
How you felt about it
(Who this person was) Well, I’m going to tell you a moment when I had a chat with a woman selling
beverages during my very first trip to Bangkok, Thailand. It just happened 2 months ago I can still
remember it quite well.
(What the conversation was about) I was just an 18-year-old boy back then, and I was unable to
find my way to the Bus Station where I was about to hop on a bus and go to Pattaya. However, Google
Maps wasn’t as popular as it is nowadays, so the only way I could figure out the way was by asking a
local. Luckily, there was a lady who was selling beverages at a food cart near where I was standing. I
resorted to asking the lady if she would be so kind as to tell me the way to the Bus Station and she
kindly replied by pointing to a building across the road and saying ’it’s over there’. Without her help,
I could not possibly have completed my trip in Thailand.
(Why you had this conversation) I was talking to my friend in Vietnamese that moment, and
suddenly she replied to me in Vietnamese. It turned out that she was also from Vietnam. And then, I
decided to sit down and order a drink from the old lady and have a chat with her. So we ended up
chatting for ages about our lives and about how and why we had come to Bangkok.
(How you felt about it) Well, I just simply found the conversation so enjoyable and inspiring since
the lady was such a gentle women. Despite having quite a tough life, she still had such a nice
personality to overcome her struggles.

1. Find one’s way: Tìm đường.
Example: He was an expert at finding his way, even in strange surroundings.
2. Local (adjective): Người bản địa.
Example: You should talk to the locals to make new friends.
3. Resort to (verb): Làm 1 điều gì đó mà mình không muốn vì không còn cách nào khác.
Example: I had to resort to violence/threats to get my money.
4. Gentle (adjective): Tử tế
Example: He's very gentle with his kids.
5. Tough (adjective): Khó khăn
Example: You have to be tough to be successful in politics.
6. Struggle (noun): Khó khăn
Example: It was a terrible struggle for him to accept her death.
169. Describe a place in your city you want to go to

(Tham khảo bài: Describe a place where you can read and write|)
You should say
· Where the place is
· How you know this place
· What you do there
· And explain why you think it is a good place for reading and writing
Answer

(where the place is)
I’m going to describe a coffee shop called Tranquil, where I often spend my time engrossed in reading
and writing. It’s actually quite a long way from my house, but that doesn’t put me off visiting there
again and again.
(how you know this place)
This coffee shop came highly recommended by one of my friends, a writer. She loves cosy places
which possess real character, in which she can spend hours writing film scripts, and this is one of her
favourite haunts. She took me there about three months ago, and I fell in love with it at first sight. It is
a romantic old spot with wooden tables, vintage book desks, and beautiful windows, all works of
traditional craftsmanship.. Each floor has separate areas, and I felt like I was lost in a wonderland,
with many seats specially situated to offer beautiful views through various windows.
(what you do there)
As a freelancer, I visit Tranquil frequently to read over my documents and do my online jobs.
Sometimes, I even come across some fascinating reading matter on their desks, because there are a large
number of books and documents donated to this coffee shop by loyal customers and book lovers. So, I
broaden my literary horizons in some unexpected directions. I have also joined a literary
appreciation circle there, which meets every month to discuss books which we have all read.
(and explain why you think it is a good place for reading and writing)
I have to admit that, though I’m hard to please, I’m always satisfied when I go there, secure in the
knowledge of a pleasurable visit . Not only is its design uniquely relaxing, but Tranquil’s service is
second to none. You always get good, consistently delicious food at Tranquil, whether you have lunch
or just morning coffee or afternoon tea. The atmosphere is warm and homely with gentle music and
quiet people, which suits bookworms like me down to the ground.
Từ vựng chủ đề Reading:

1. to be engrossed in
Meaning: to be completely focused on something
Example: A good work-life balance is important, because if people are too engrossed in their work,
their family life may suffer.

2. to come highly recommended
Meaning: to be praised enthusiastically by one or more people
Example: Books by classic authors always come highly recommended, but works by talented young
writers should not be overlooked.
3. to read over
Meaning: to read something carefully from beginning to end to look for mistakes or to check details
Example: Attention to detail is important in many jobs, so the practice of reading over one’s written
work should be taught at school and university.
4. to broaden one’s literary horizons
Meaning: to extend the limit of your knowledge or interests by reading widely
Example: Schools should broaden the literary horizons of students by encouraging them to read in
class and at home.
5. literary appreciation
Meaning: pleasure that you have when you recognise and enjoy the qualities of a good piece of writing
Example: Children develop literary appreciation if they are encouraged by parents and teachers to love
reading.
6. secure in the knowledge
Meaning: not worried because you are sure that nothing bad will happen
Example: Students who work hard throughout the year will be confident when they take exams, secure
in the knowledge that they are well-prepared.
Từ vựng chủ đề Traditional vs Modern:

1. to possess character
Meaning: to have an interesting or unusual quality
Example: Whereas most modern buildings look the same, the architecture that survives from the past
possesses real character.
2. works of craftsmanship
Meaning: objects made by people who are very skilled at making things by hand

Example: The museums of every city are full of beautiful works of craftsmanship made by skilled
workers in past centuries.
Vocabulary
1. Put off [phrasal verb]
Meaning: to cause someone to lose interest or enthusiasm
Example: She wanted to be a nurse, but the thought of night shifts put her off.
2. Cosy [adjective]
Meaning: comfortable and pleasant, especially (of a building) because of being small and warm
Example: It's much better to have a small cosy room than a big cold one.
3. Haunt [noun]
Meaning: a place that somebody often visits or where they spend a lot of time.
Example: This bar is one of the favourite haunts of staff from the college nearby.
4. Spot [noun]
Meaning: a particular area or place
Example: She always sits in the same spot in the library, near the window so that she can look out over
the gardens.
5. Freelancer [noun]
Meaning: someone who works on different projects with different companies instead of being a company
employee
Example: He started off his career working as a freelancer with several design firms.
6. Come across [phrasal verb]
Meaning: to meet or find somebody/something by chance
Example: I came across some interesting old photos while I was looking through the drawers of my
desk.
7. Pleasurable [adjective]
Meaning: giving pleasure
Example: A visit to the Tower of London is a very pleasurable experience, because the Tower has a
real feeling of history.
8. Second to none [expression]

Meaning: as good as or better than all others
Example: The delicious Thai food in this restaurant is second to none.
9. Homely [adjective]
Meaning: plain or ordinary, but pleasant
Example: The hotel is homely and comfortable rather than luxurious.
10. Down to the ground [expression]
Meaning: if something suits you down to the ground, it suits you perfectly because it is convenient or
the best option for you
Example: As he has classes in the morning and afternoon, his part-time job in the evenings suits him
down to the ground.
Describe a famous person that you are interested in

You should say:
Who this person is
How you know about this person
What this person is famous for
Explain why you are interested in this person
I’m going to tell you about a celebrity who I really respect. He is Fernando Torres, a Spanish
professional footballer who plays as a striker for Atletico Madrid club and the national team.
(How you know about this person)
Torres has been my idol for a long time since I was a kid. I’ve always been a sports fan and I first
watched him play when I turned 8 years old, the summer of the EUFA European Football
Championship in 2008. I watched the final match of the championship, in which Torres contributed a
truly impressive performance. He was also the only one who scored and made Spain a winner for the

second time in history. The moment of his beautiful goal has turned me into a wholehearted admirer
for 10 years now.
(What this person is famous for)
Fernando Torres has earned an international reputation as a valuable striker with great vision and
technical ability. He has the awareness to get in behind opposing defenders and the ability to finish
accurately with his head or with either foot. Like the true professional that he is, he keeps himself in
the peak of condition. Thanks to gifted talent and dedicated training, he - together with his team-
mates - has won lots of titles and set international records.
(Explain why you are interested in this person)
Personally, I find Torres an interesting person mainly because of his attitude as a team player. In
football, strikers are generally notorious for selfishness and greed for goals, but Torres is different.
Not only does he do his best to score himself, he also tries to support and create chances for his team-
mates. This has been an inspiration for me to be unselfish, generous and cooperative in my own life
and attitude towards others.
Vocabulary:
Các từ thuộc chủ đề Sport and exercise:
1. a sports fan
Meaning: a person who takes a keen interest in sport
Example: While I think that it is good to be a sports fan, people must remember that sport is just
entertainment, not a matter of life and death.
2. be in the peak of condition
Meaning: to be in the best possible physical condition
Example: Sports professionals should receive high salaries, because they must always be in the peak
of condition to perform at the highest levels.

Vocabulary:
 celebrity [noun]: a well-known person, such as an actor, singer or sports star. người nổi tiếng
Eg: After her marriage, Princess Diana became an international celebrity.
 striker [noun]: a footballer whose role is to score goals. tiền đạo
Eg: He started his football career as a striker, but he didn’t score many goals.
 national team [noun]: a sports team selected to represent a country. đội tuyển quốc gia
Eg: In the Olympic Games, the most successful national team in recent years has been China.
 EUFA European Football Championship: a football competition held every 4 years to be the
best national team in Europe. hay EURO, giải vô địch bóng đá châu Âu
Eg: I hope that Italy will win the next EUFA European Football Championship.
 idol [noun]: a person that you admire, respect (even love!), who you probably have never met
in person. Thần tượng.
Eg: In the 1960s and1970s, Ho Chi Minh was an idol for many Americans who opposed US policy.
 wholehearted [adjective]: complete, 100 per cent. hết lòng, nhiệt thành
Eg: The President enjoyed the wholehearted support of the news media for his economic reforms.
 admirer [noun]: a fan, a person who admires another person/thing. người hâm mộ
Eg: I have been an admirer of Shakespeare’s plays since my schooldays.
 to earn an international reputation as/for: to become recognised internationally for some

achievement. nổi tiếng toàn thế giới, lừng danh thế giới về điều gì đó

Eg: Brazilian footballers have earned an international reputation as very skilful players.
 vision [noun]: ability to understand what your team-mates and opponents are likely to do. tầm
nhìn
Eg: Torres has great vision, always thinking about being in the right place at the right time to help his
team to score.
 opposing defender [noun]: a player from the other team who tries to stop you from scoring a
goal. hậu vệ đội bạn
Eg: Torres ran past two opposing defenders and scored.
 finish accurately [expression]: to score a goal by hitting the ball with accuracy. dứt điểm chính
xác
Eg: Although he is a great player, he doesn’t score many goals because he cannot finish accurately.
 gifted talent [expression]: a natural ability to do something. tài năng bẩm sinh
Eg: She has a gifted talent for music, and she masters a new instrument very quickly.
 notorious (for)…[adjective]: famous, but in a bad way. tai tiếng vì điều gì đó
Eg: Dracula was notorious for drinking the blood of his victims.
 create chances for someone: to help a team-mate to score a goal. tạo cơ hội cho ai
Eg. Skilful play by Torres created many chances for his team-mates to score during the match.
 inspiration (for)…[noun]: something which gives you hope and encouragement to do

something. nguồn cảm hứng
Eg: Her lessons were an inspiration for all her students to really understand the subject.

171. Describe an experience that you got bored when you were with others
You should say:
⁃ When it was
⁃ Who you were with
⁃ What you did
⁃ And explain why you were bored.
(When it was) Right now, I’d like to share with you one of my biggest problems whenever I go on a
date with someone - boredom. Some time ago, during the Lunar New Year to be exact, I tried seeing
a guy who I found the most boring individual on Earth.
(Who you were with) I matched this guy on Tinder, which was my maiden Tinder experience. Having
read his profile, I could know this guy is definitely not a catfish but rather a well-educated boy who
seemed to be a person I could talk to. However, he was just too shy to initiate a conversation and I
had to continuously ask questions until I ran out of ideas.
(What you did) All of our dates were movie sessions rather than face-to-face time. After movies, we
would just head out for dinner and drinks at which both of us hardly cast a glance at each other while
we spent most of our time keeping eyes glued to our screens, literally without knowing what to say
to each other.
(And explain why you were bored) I would say that the lack of connection between us was the cause
of the boredom. Also, there was no chemistry between us. I expected him to be a lot more active as
he had seemed to talk a lot in chat, but the way he turned out left me quite disappointed.
1. To go on a date (phrase): đi hẹn hò

He asked her out on a date.
Anh ấy mời cô ấy đi hẹn hò.
2. To see (v): tìm hiểu

I think Jane wants to date Jack after spending three months seeing him.

Tôi nghĩ Jane muốn hẹn hò với Jack sau ba tháng tìm hiểu.
3. Catfish (n): lừa đảo (sử dụng hình người khác trên ứng dụng hẹn hò)
Falling for a catfish has nothing to do with intelligence or rational thinking – it’s all about hope.
Lỡ yêu một người lừa đảo thì không có gì liên quan với thông minh hay suy nghĩ lý trí – nó hoàn toàn
là hy vọng.
4. To initiate (v): bắt đầu

We shall initiate urgent discussions with our European partners.
Chúng tôi sẽ bắt đầu những cuộc thảo luận gấp với đối tác Châu Âu.
5. To cast a glance at sb/sth (phrase): liếc nhìn ai đó/cái gì đó.

She cast a glance at her watch.
Cô ấy liếc mắt nhìn đồng hồ.
6. To keep eyes glued to screen (phrase): dán mắt vào màn hình
You can see many train commuters in S.Korea keep their eyes glued to their phone screens on
board.
Bạn có thể thấy rất nhiều người đi tàu ở Hàn Quốc dán mắt vào màn hình điện thoại.
7. Chemistry (n): hợp

Finding out that there was chemistry between them, they decided to break up.
Nhận thấy rằng không hợp nhau, họ quyết định chia tay.

172. Describe a time when you gave advice to someone
You should say:
- Who you gave it to
- What was the advice about
- What that person did after receiving it
- And how you felt about it
(What it was and who you gave it to)
Today, I would like to talk about some advice on studying that I gave to my younger sister. It was 2
years ago, when she completed her university graduation and had to decide what she wanted to do in
her life. At that time, I had been working for 5 years and accumulated a certain amount of experience,
so my sister decided to consult me.
(What was the advice about)
Back then, she was at a crossroads, where she had to choose between embarking on further studies
abroad or starting working full-time with her bachelor’s degree. She wanted an option, which would
provide her with a promising future. Understandably, higher academic qualifications nowadays are
virtually a prerequisite for employment, especially in grey-matter fields where rivalry is cut-throat
for graduates. On receiving her question, I talked to her a lot to find out what she really loved doing.
Eventually, I advised her to continue to study for a Master’s degree instead of working early.
(What that person did after receiving it)
I told her to do so because I believed that a master's degree can open many career doors for young
people, including certain career fields, offer advancement opportunities, and higher salaries.

Although taking a master's degree is by no means an easy task, this would challenge her to by step
out of her comfort zone. She trusted me and followed my advice.
(And how you felt about it)
I felt really happy to be there when she needed me the most and sailed her through such a challenging
phase of decision-making in life. After following my advice, my sister has achieved more on her
academic journey and she always feels grateful for my help. She told me that she always wanted to
see from my perspective before making any vital moves, as I often gave her insightful thoughts.
Vocabulary:
74. accumulate [v]: to collect a large number of things over a long period of time: ch ất
lũy
Eg: As people accumulate more wealth, they tend to spend a greater proportion of their
incomes.
75. consult [v]: to discuss something with someone before you make a decision: tham khảo ý kiến
Eg: This afternoon the president was consulting with his advisers.
76. at a crossroads [expression]: to be at a stage in your life when you have to make a very
important decision: đến bước ngoặc, đến bước quyết định
Eg: After earning her degree, I'm at a crossroads.
77. prerequisite [n]: something that must exist or happen before something else can exist or
happens: điều kiện tiên quyết
Eg: Passing a written test is a prerequisite for taking the advanced course.

78. cut-throat [adj]: competing in a strong and unfair way, without considering any harm caused
to others: quyết liệt
Eg: Scrapping of price fixing legislation led to a cut-throat battle for supermarket customers.
79. advancement [n]: the development or improvement of something: sự thăng tiến
Eg: All she was interested in was the advancement of her own career.
80. by no means [expression]: not at all: không hề
Eg: It is by no means certain that we'll finish the project by June.
81. comfort zone [expression]: a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your ability
and determination are not being tested: vùng an toàn
Eg: Rock climbing pushes many people beyond their comfort zones.
82. grateful [adj]: feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness; thankful: bi ết ơn
Eg: I'm very grateful to you for all your help.
83. insightful [adj]: having or showing an accurate and deep understanding; perceptive.: sâu sắc
Eg: This is a very thoughtful, insightful analysis.
173. Describe an interesting job that you want to have in the future
You should say:
What it is
How you might find this job
What qualities it requires
Explain why it is a well-paid job
Why you think you will be good at it
(What it is)
Since I was young, I have always dreamed of becoming a tour guide. Being a backpacker, I have a
very strong thirst for travelling, so I believe it would be wonderful to have the opportunity to do it as
a job.

(How you might find this job)
As a matter of fact, my city is an increasingly –popular holiday destination and is swarming with
holidaymakers. Therefore, it would not be too hard for me to find a vacancy in almost any of the travel
agencies based in my city.
(What qualities it requires)
Although it may be easy to find a job vacancy in this field, to do the job is much more challenging. First
and foremost, a tour guide must act professionally by adhering to proper codes of conduct. As they
have to make direct contact with customers, it is extremely important that tour guides show that they are
trained and take their job seriously. Secondly, they also have to be a team player because guiding tours
involves the participation of many parties. To keep abreast of everything that is going on, smooth
teamwork is specially required to prevent any breakdown in communication.
(Explain why it is a well-paid job)
As I have said, my city is thronged with tourists. And because of their stressful lifestyles, tourists now
are prepared to really break the bank to enjoy a well-organized trip. So I believe as long as I do my
job decently, I would get a good income.
(Why you think you will be good at it)
In fact, I am quite confident that I have all the qualities required to be a tour guide. I have really good
communication skills and a smart appearance as well. Therefore, I believe if I train properly, I will be a
good tour guide!
Vocabulary
Tự vựng chủ đề Tourism:

1. backpackers
Meaning: people who travel on holiday carrying all their equipment and clothes in a backpack, like a
large very strong bag which they carry on their back.
Example: London has cheap accommodation for backpackers who don’t have much money to spend
on hotels.
Ví dụ: Anh ấy đã đi khắp thế giới, nhưng vẫn khao khát được đặt chân tới những nơi mới lạ và tận hưởng
những trải nghiệm mới.
2. to have a thirst for something
Meaning: to have a strong desire for something
Example: He has been all over the world, but he still has a thirst for seeing new places and enjoying
new experiences.
Ví dụ: London có những phòng nghỉ giá rẻ cho du khách ba lô, những người không có nhiều tiền để ở
khách sạn.
3. to swarm with holidaymakers/tourists
Meaning: when people swarm somewhere, they move there in a large group or in large numbers.
Example: During the summer, the little seaside town is swarming with holidaymakers.
Ví dụ: Vào mùa hè, thị trấn nhỏ ven biển đầy những vị khách tới nghỉ mát.

i liệu.
4. to be thronged with tourists
Meaning: refers to the situation of a place having a great number of visitors crowded or considered
together
Example: At weekends, London, in particular, is thronged with tourists and certain areas of the city
such as Oxford Street and Covent Garden are swarming with visitors.
Ví dụ: Vào cuối tuần, cụ thể ở London, đầy những du khách và một số khu vực tong thành phố như
Oxford Street hay Convent Garden thì chật ních người.
5. To break the bank
Meaning: to use up all one's money/ to cost too much.
Example: Having a winter vacation in the sun without breaking the bank is a dream come true
Ví dụ: Có được một kì nghỉ mùa đông dưới ánh mặt trời mà không phải chi hết sạch tiền bạc là một giấc
mơ có thực.
Từ vựng chủ đề Government:
1. to adhere to
Meaning: to behave according to a particular law, rule or set of instructions
Example: Governments which fail to adhere to their election promises generally become unpopular
very quickly.
Từ vựng chủ đề Communication and personality:

1. codes of conduct
Meaning: voluntary rules which people accept in a situation
Example: The code of conduct in this company is voluntary but it is seen as a sign of best practice.
Ví dụ: Bộ quy tắc ứng xử là tự nguyện nhưng nó được coi là tiêu chuẩn thực hiện.
2. to be a team player
Meaning: a person who willingly cooperates with others
Example: Employees who are good team players are more likely to be selected for promotion.
Ví dụ: Những nhân viên có khả năng làm việc tốt sẽ có nhiều cơ hội được chọn để thăng tiến hơn.
3. to keep abreast of something
Meaning: to have the most recent information about something
Example: This new service helps doctors keep abreast of the newest drugs available.
Ví dụ: Dịch vụ mới cho phép bác sĩ cập nhật tin tức về những loại thuốc mới nhất.
4. a breakdown in communication
Meaning: a misunderstanding which results from people failing to discuss and resolve something
Example: The dispute between the workers and the employer was the result of a breakdown in
communication over wages.
Ví dụ: Mâu thuẫn giữa công nhân và ông chủ là do sự thất bại trong giao tiếp về mức lương.

Vocabulary
 challenging (adjective): difficult in an interesting way that tests your ability
Eg: She had a challenging and rewarding career as a teacher.
 lifestyle (noun): the way in which a person or a group of people lives and works
Eg: It was a big change in lifestyle when we moved to the countryside.
Part 3:
Do you think job satisfaction is more important than salary when choosing a job?
(Give direct answer to the question) Yes, from my viewpoint, job satisfaction plays a crucial role in
choosing a job rather than salary. (Explain your reasons) It is undeniable that job contentedness will
lead to greater productivity at work and help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. (Give an example) For
instance, I am passionate about my job as an English translator because my company offers me a good
working environment and my work with pleasure and also have time to enjoy my leisure time. (Explain
the opposite or alternative) If people give the prioritygave priority to salary, they may have to work
under pressure for their whole life and be a slave to money.a slave to money.
Vocabulary:
 Play a crucial role in Ving: đóng vai trò quan trọng trong việc gì
Example: reading books plays a crucial role in developing the intelligence of children.
 Job contentedness= job satisfaction
Example: job contentedness is measured by the affective feelings about the job
 Productivity: năng suất lao động
Example: the productivity of Vietnamese people is considered as lower than that of other countries.
 Be passionate about something: say mê, hào hứng với cái gì

Example: my mother is passionate about baking cakes.
 With pleasure: thoải mái, hài lòng
Example: she gave me a hand with pleasure.
 Gave priority to something
Example: the government gave priority to the development of economy.
What skills do you think are needed to get a job nowadays?
(Give direct answer to the question) In my opinion, communication skills are crucial to most careers,
which means that it is necessary to gain these skills to get a job. (Explain your reasons) Employers
want people that can listen and observe to gain an understanding, relate their ideas effectively, and devise
strategies for working together. Thus, those who have communication skills can interact with others to
complete work effectively. (Give an example) Last month, I was given a bonus and promoted to a higher
position because I could communicate with my colleagues and gain a great number of new contracts.
(Explain the opposite or alternative) When candidates lack interaction skills, they are likely to feel
awkward when attending a job interview and lose the chance of getting the job.
Vocabulary:
 It is necessary to do something: cần thiết làm gì
Example: it is necessary to save forests and wild animals.
 Communication skills=interaction abilities: kĩ năng, khả năng giao tiếp
Example: she is trying to improve her communication skills in order to prepare for the scholarship
interview.
 Gain an understanding: hiểu được cái gì
Example: people should gain an understanding of cyber bullying.
 Be promoted to a position: được đề bạt vào vị trí nào
Example: he has been promoted to be the sales manager of this branch.
 Colleague: đồng nghiệp
Example: she is a warm-hearted person that can get on well with all of her colleagues.
 to lack something: thiếu cái gì
Example: I tend to lack patience when talking with him.

Do you think women should be able to do all the same jobs that men do?
(Give direct answer to the question) No, I wholeheartedly believe that women shouldn’t do all the jobs
that men do. (Explain your reasons) It seems obvious that the nature of men enables them to work in
specific jobs that women cannot because of their relative weakness; both physically and mentally. (Give
an example) For example, operating heavy machines, building houses or farming are not suitable for
women since they are not likely to be able to endure the hardship of these jobs. (Explain the opposite
or alternative) If they perform a man's job for a long time, they may become exhausted and overloaded.
Vocabulary:
 S+wholeheartedly believe that Clause: hoàn toàn tin rằng…
Example: she wholeheartedly believes that aliens exist.
 Operate machines: vận hành máy móc
Example: he can operate this machine even though he has never seen it before.
 Endure hardship: chịu đựng khó khăn
Example: trainees who can endure hardship will have a chance of officially getting the job.
 Perform the job: làm việc
Example: my sister performs the job so well that she has been offered a higher salary.
 Be exhausted: kiệt sức
Example: I was exhausted after running 2 kilometers.
 Be overloaded: quá tải
Example: she was overloaded by the work as the manager’s secretary.
How has technology changed the way we work?

(Give direct answer to the question) Thanks to the technology, whether it’s a laptop or even mobile
phone, we can do business almost anywhere without the obstacle of time and distance. (Explain your
reasons) In the past, people had the problem of wasting time on finding and sharing information by
sending letter or making an appointment. However, nowadays, we can easily collect data, share
information and do transactions via internet-connected gadgets. (Give an example) My father, for
example, often conducts video conferencing with his employees so that he doesn’t have to go to the

office regularly. (Explain the opposite or alternative) When modern people don’t use technology,
definitely productivity and work output is often affected.
Vocabulary:
 Thanks to something: nhờ có/cảm ơn…
Example: thanks to her help, I reached the office on time.
 Obstacle: trướng ngại
Example: she overcame the mental obstacles after losing her mother.
 Encounter difficulty: gặp phải khó khăn
Example: they encountered difficulty in communicating with foreigners.
 Make an appointment: hẹn gặp
Example: you should make an appointment with the doctor to know more about this disease.
 Do transactions: kinh doanh
Example: businessmen today can do transactions online.
 Gadget: thiết bị
Example: high-tech gadgets allow users to enjoy life more easily.
What is the difference between white collar and blue collar jobs?
(Give direct answer to the question) The differences between white collar and blue collar jobs include
features of the work, remuneration and the payment cycle. (Explain your reasons) Blue collar
work means that workers perform a job manually and get an hourly or daily wage, based on the
performance of their work whereas employees of white collar jobs perform clerical work in an office
and draw monthly salary at a fixed rate (Give an example) For instance, as a translator, I am paid 10
million dong per month while my uncle who is a harbor worker is given 100.000d per day.
Vocabulary:
 Remuneration: thù lao
Example: he is not satisfied with this rate of remuneration.
 Payment cycle: vòng lương
Example: many youngsters cannot manage their spending before the next payment cycle
 Manual labor: lao động chân tay

Example: Manual labor is gradually being replaced by machines.
 Daily wage: lương trả theo ngày
Example: he got a daily wage when working at this factory.
 Clerical work: công việc văn phòng
Example: I don’t like clerical work because of the cramped environment.
 Draw a monthly salary: nhận lương theo tháng
Example: she offers the trainee to draw monthly salary.
174. Describe an important technological product you bought

You should say:
- What it is
- How you use it and why you bought it
- And explain why you think it is important
(What it is)
I have several pieces of modern technology and electronic gadgets that I often use and among them, I
would like to talk about the electronic dictionary I bought years ago in a bookstore. On the surface, it
was really eye-catching. It was a white colored digital dictionary, portable, compact and light, not
more than 4 by 6 inches in dimension, but was one of the latest models.
(How you use it and why you bought it)
This versatile dictionary also served as an Ipod, which allowed me to listen to music and play games.
Above all, as an avid English learner, I needed an electronic dictionary in my study. In terms of its main
functions, it really came in handy for me. I could easily carry it in my pocket and I used it quite often
to learn new words and that helped enhance my language skills a great deal. Since then, it has been
serving me faithfully, allowing me not only to do a quick search for words and expressions, but also to
create specialized personal glossaries.

(And explain why you think it is important)
Thanks to this dictionary, learning English has gradually become my pastime, rather than a
compulsory, tedious subject in school. Until now, I still count myself fortunate to have bought this at
such an affordable price at that time. This electronic dictionary has changed the way I learn English and
helped me to excel at this language.
Vocabulary:
1. gadget [n]: a small device or machine with a particular purpose: đồ vật

Eg: Have you seen this handy little gadget - it's for separating egg yolks from whites.
2. eye-catching [adj]: (of a thing) immediately noticeable because it is particularly interesting,
bright or attractive: bắt mắt
Eg: There were beautiful clothes in eye-catching colours in the shop.
3. portable [adj]: light and small enough to be easily carried or moved: mang theo được
Eg: The laptop's ultra-compact design makes it extremely portable and practical.
4. versatile [adj]: having many different uses: linh hoạt, nhiều công dụng
Eg: Eggs are easy to cook and are an extremely versatile food.
5. come in handy [expression]: to be useful: tiện ích
Eg: The extra money came in very handy in this situation.
6. faithfully [v]: in a loyal way or a way that can be trusted: một cách trung thành
Eg: He served the family faithfully for 40 years.
7. glossary [n]: an alphabetical list, with meanings, of the words or phrases in a text that are
difficult to understand: bảng chú giải
Eg: The end matter includes a very useful discography and bibliography, as well as a glossary and
chronology.
8. gradually [adv]: slowly, over a long period of time: dần dần
Eg: Women have gradually become more involved in the decision-making process.
9. tedious [adj]: boring: nhàm chán
Eg: The problem is I find most forms of exercise so tedious.

10. (to) excel at [v]: to be very good at doing something: xuất xắc, vượt trội
Eg: As a child he excelled at music and art.
PART 3: EQUIPMENT
1. What do you think is the most important equipment in the workplace?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, I think computers are of utmost importance to offices
nowadays. (Explain your reason or reasons) The widespread use of computers has revolutionized
many aspects of labor and business. (Give an example (often a personal example)) Computers can
improve communication both within the workplace and when dealing with customers. The use of email,
Internet, message boards and social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn have been instrumental
in keeping workers in touch both within and between different companies. Another revolutionary aspect
of computers is the enormous quantity of information they are capable of storing.
2. Which technological product do you think is most useful at home?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I assume it is the washing machine for certain reasons. (Explain
your reason or reasons) A washing machine is a huge time saver over hand washing. (Give an
example (often a personal example)) You do not have to sit and monitor the washing process. Above
all, a washing machine eliminates the effort needed to wash clothes. You start the cycle and throw your
clothes and detergent in. With hand washing, you must use physical effort to get the clothes clean and
scrub vigorously to remove stains.
1. Do you think there will be no teachers to teach in school in the future?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, this prospect seems unimaginable to me. (Explain your
reason or reasons) On the one hand, the presence of a teacher is essential for students because the
human contact influences them in positive ways. (Give an example (often a personal example))
Teachers are constantly required in the learning process because they acknowledge some students’
deficiencies and help them to solve their problems by offering explanation, giving extra exercises or
even suggesting a private tutor.
2. Do you think some technological products make you lazier? Why?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Apparently, they do, to a certain extent. (Explain your reason
or reasons) Technology breeds the ability to employ labor saving devices. Once upon a time, visiting
a friend or family member meant traveling; nowadays we are satisfied with a few minutes on FaceTime

or Skype. We friend and defriend people from social networks without actually meeting them. In this
day and age, hardly anyone walks or rides a bike, people want to drive everywhere, even for a short
distance. I don’t know how many people would survive if technology suddenly disappeared.
Vocabulary:
84. revolutionize [v]: to completely change something so that it is much better: cách mạng hóa
Eg: Newton's discoveries revolutionized physics.
85. instrumental in [adj]: if someone or something is instrumental in a process, plan, or system,

that person or thing is one of the most important influences in causing it to happen: góp phần
vào
Eg: She was instrumental in bringing about the prison reform act.
86. enormous [adj]: extremely large: to lớn
Eg: He earns an enormous salary.
87. eliminate [v]: to remove or take away someone or something: loại bỏ
Eg: We eliminated the possibility that it could have been an accident.
88. detergent [n]: a chemical substance in the form of a powder or a liquid for removing dirt from
clothes, dishes, etc.: chất tẩy rửa
Eg: Significantly more male moths were caught in traps treated with water containing powdered
detergent than liquid detergent, light gear oil or insecticide.
89. vigorously [adv]: in a way that is very forceful or energetic: một cách mạnh mẽ
Eg: Environmentalists and local government officials have vigorously opposed the project.
90. prospect [n]: the possibility that something good might happen in the future: viễn cảnh
Eg: There seems little prospect of an end to the dispute.
91. deficiencies [n]: a state of not having, or not having enough, of something that is needed: sự
thiếu sót
Eg: Deficiencies in the education system have been much in the news.
92. breed [v]: to cause something to happen, usually something bad: sinh ra
Eg: Favouritism breeds resentment.

93. defriend [v]: to remove someone from your list of friends on a social networking website: hủy
kết bạn
Eg: How do I check who has defriended me on Facebook?
175. Describe a short trip that you frequently make

- When and where you went
- What kind of transport you used
- How your trip was
- Explain why you chose to use public transport.
(When and where you went) I am going to talk about the time that I commuted by public transportation
in Singapore for the first time, which took place 2 years ago. It is common knowledge that Singapore is
famous for the wide coverage of public transportation including bus and railway systems which help
both the local and foreign visitors travel around the city-state with ease.
(What kind of transport you used) Apart from that, as a result of the government’s policy which imposes
limits on the number of vehicles on the road, taxi seemed not affordable for those travelling on a budget
like me. I was left with no choice apart from boarding an MRT train to get to the city center, which was
the fastest and most convenient way, albeit not the most economical.
(How your trip was) I was not a frequent public transport commuter at that time, therefore, I thought
that the MRT would travel at a snail’s pace and it would take ages to arrive in downtown. Also, as it
was the first time that I had used the metro, I dreaded to think that I would board a wrong train and get
lost. But the fact that I only had to change the train once and that it only took 30 minutes to get to
downtown really came as a surprise. Instructions were so clear that I did not even rely on anybody to
help me.
(Explain why you chose public transport) As I’ve mentioned previously, I was left with no choice. I
could not drive a car while taxi or hiring a private driver would cost a small fortune. Therefore, boarding
a train was the only option if I wanted to get to city centre before midnight. However, I kept commuting

by MRT train as well as bus around Singapore because they were quite convenient and affordable for
me.
1. With ease (phrase): một cách dễ dàng.

Example: She defeated her opponent with ease.
Cô ấy đánh bại đối thủ một cách dễ dàng.
2. On a budget (phrase): không có nhiều tiền

Example: Mortgage advisers urge anyone on a tight budget to choose a fixed rate so they know they
can afford the repayments.
Những người cho vay thế chấp thúc giục bất cứ ai không có nhiều tiền chọn một lãi suất nhất định để họ
biết là họ có thể trả lại số nhiều đã vay và lãi.
3. Economical (adj): tiết kiệm.

Example: There's increasing demand for cars that are more economical on fuel.
Nhu cầu cho xe hơi tiết kiệm nhiên liệu ngày càng tăng.
4. At a snail’s pace (idiom): rất chậm.

Example: The roads were full of traffic and we were travelling at a snail's pace for two hours.
Những con đường bị kẹt cứng và chúng tôi phải di chuyển rất chậm trong vòng 2 giờ.
5. To dread (v): sợ hãi.

Example: I dread to think what would happen if he was left to cope on his own.
Tôi rất sợ hãi phải nghĩ chuyện gì sẽ xảy ra nếu anh ấy phải giải quyết 1 mình.
6. To come as a/no surprise (phrase): đến 1 cách (không) bất ngờ.

Example: If you didn't study for that test at all, your failing grade should come as no surprise.
Nếu bạn không học hành đàng hoàng thì việc nhận điểm kém là không bất ngờ xíu nào.
7. a small fortune (idiom): số tiền lớn.

Example: This house cost hardly anything when we bought it, but now it’s worth a small fortune.
Căn nhà này không quá mắc khi chúng tôi mua nó, nhưng bây giờ nó có giá trị rất lớn.
176. Describe a loving person that you know.

(Tham khảo bài: Describe a person who is always full of energy. )
You should say:
- Who she/he is
- What she/he does
- Why she/he is full of energy
- And explain how you feel about this person
(Who she/he is) I have got the chance to meet Jia Jing, a student of one of the most prestigious
universities in the world – Nanyang Technological University. He a person who is full of effervescence
and never seems to be down in the dumps. Jia Jing is also one of the best leaders I’ve ever got to
encounter so far.
(What she/he does) Jia Jing is such an indomitable leader who was able to communicate effectively
with me as well as his Singaporean fellows. When teaching, he injected his enthusiasm into the English
class he was in charge of, which created an incentive for the students to participate in his class regularly.
Also, during construction, Jia Jing never swerved an inch from his own duty while keeping an eye on
other volunteers to make sure they adhered to the safety procedures.
(Why she/he is full of energy) Jia Jing is a kind of person who shows up in class and the construction
site bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, every day, like clockwork. Meanwhile, as a close friend, I also know
that he never fails to get his workouts in. He never fails to make everyone burst into laughter during
the briefing every evening with his outstanding sense of humour.

(And explain how you feel about this person) Jia Jing is a person to whom I look up and whose habits
I adopt to make myself more energetic and dynamic. He is a dream boy of many people out there to be
honest. Whenever I am with him, I always feel his positive influence on me.
Vocabulary
1. Encounter (v): gặp gỡ/biết đến
She was the most remarkable woman he had ever encountered.
Cô ấy là người nổi bật nhất mà anh ấy từng biết đến/gặp được.
2. Indomitable (a): kiên cường
The indomitable Mrs Furlong said she would continue to fight for justice.
Bà Furlong kiên cường nói rằng bà sẽ tiếp tục đấu tranh cho công lý.
3. Inject (verb): đưa vào cái gì đó
I tried to inject a little humour into the meeting.
Tôi cố gắng đưa vào cuộc họp một chút hài hước.
4. Incentive (n): khích lệ

These kids have no incentive to learn.
Những đứa trẻ này không có sự khích lệ để học.
5. Swerve an inch from sb’s duty (phrase): bỏ qua nhiệm vụ

They work really hard and seem not to swerve an inch from their duty.
Họ làm việc rất chăm chỉ và dường như không bao giờ bỏ qua nhiệm vụ của mình.
6. Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed (idiom): vui vẻ, hồ hởi
He always leaps out of bed bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.
Anh ấy luôn bước ra khỏi giường một cách vui vẻ và hồ hởi.
7. Like clockwork (idiom): đúng giờ, trôi chảy

Since the recent improvements to the service, the buses are running like clockwork.

Từ khi có sự nâng cấp trong dịch dịch, xe buýt đang chạy rất đúng giờ.
8. Burst into laughter (phrase): phá cười
We burst into laughter when the comedy began.
Chúng tôi phá lên cười khi vở kịch bắt đầu.
Part 3:
1. What kind of jobs requires much energy?

Most manual jobs require physical strength, I believe. For example, construction workers need to work
in heat and have to carry heavy items, which requires them to be full of energy, otherwise they would
collapse easily.
2. Do you think manual work will all be done by machines in the future?
The answer is unequivocal, yes. Due to the fast-paced development of automation, manual work will be
taken over by machines in the future. Indeed, Changi Airport’s newest terminal has achieved manpower
savings of up to 20% thanks to automation. This number is expected to continue to grow when technology
continues to develop.
3. Do you think manual workers will earn more in the future?

I think that the need for manual workers will be eradicated in the future, let alone an increase in their
earnings. It is very apparent that the income of manual workers has decreased in recent years when
companies try to cut as much expenditure as they can to increase profit.
Vocabulary:
1. Fast-paced (adj): nhanh chóng.

It is a myth that all older people struggle with the fast-paced evolution of information technology.

Thật hoang đường khi nói tất cả mọi người lớn tuổi đều thấy khó khăn với sự tiến hóa nhanh chóng của
công nghệ thông tin.
2. To take over (phrasal verb): tiếp quản

The firm has been taken over by one of its main competitors.
Công ty này đã được tiếp quản bởi một trong những đối thủ chính của nó.
177. Describe someone who is talkative

You should say:
Who this person is
How you know this person
What this person likes to talk about
Now, I’m going to tell you about a talkative person whom I know. This person has been my best friend,
Ashley, since we were freshmen in college.
(How you know this person)
When we first met each other in class, we were both shy and unsociable. Things started to get better
when we came across each other in Singapore, after which we explored the city-state together to see
the tourist attractions. We started to have more interaction and communication with each other and
even though we came back to Vietnam more than a year ago, we just can’t stop talking about our trip to
Singapore.
(What this person likes to talk about)
After the trip, Ashley liked to talk about our experience in Singapore, in an academic way though. For
example, she would talk to everyone she knew about things like how the people there seemed to live in

harmony with one another, how they behaved towards us, or how developed it was economically.
Especially, she was extremely good at bargaining so she would tell everyone about how she haggled
over prices when going shopping in Singapore. Apart from that, Ashley, as an undergraduate majoring
in International Relations, likes to discuss political problems as well as international issues which the
entire world is encountering. She always says that we have to see the big picture. Luckily, I am also
the type of person who wants to keep abreast of what’s going on in the world, so it is easy for me to
follow what she says with interest.
Not only does she talk about international relations, she also likes to share whatever she knows in
everyday life. She is always one of the first students in school to know the teachers’ latest stories and
usually leaks the news to the rest of the class. However, in general, making small talk is not her thing.
She’s a serious as well as a sociable person, and she much prefers to chat face to face rather than
spending time on social networking sites online.
I think that I’m quite lucky to have such a talkative friend like Ashley, as with her, I’m never bored
because, whenever I’m down, she’s always there to tell me more stories.
Vocabulary:
Các từ thuộc chủ đề Communication and Personality:

1. to live in harmony with one another
Meaning: to live with others in a way which avoids conflict or disagreement
Example: The students who share the house are all good friends and they are able to live in harmony
with one another.
2. to see the big picture

Meaning: to understand all the important aspects of a situation
Example: Students sometimes get confused with so many details to remember, but our history teacher
is able to make us see the big picture.

3. to keep abreast of something
Meaning: to have the most recent information about something
Example: This site helps doctors to keep abreast of the latest drugs available.
4. to make small talk
Meaning: to talk in a polite way about unimportant things
Example: I enjoy a serious discussion, and I don’t like to make small talk simply to be polite to others.
5. social networking sites

Meaning: websites on which you communicate with people who share your interests
Example: Young people today waste too much time on social networking sites such as Facebook or
Linkedin.
Vocabulary:
 freshman (noun): a student who is in his or her first year at university or college: sinh viên năm
nhất.
Eg: Freshmen are more likely to participate in extra-curricular activities than final-year students.
Sinh viên năm nhất thường hay tham gia hoạt động ngoại khóa hơn sinh viên năm cuối.
 unsociable (adjective): not friendly or enjoying the company of other people
Eg: Although Sarah appears to be unsociable, she’s friendly when you get to know her well.
 to come across (phrasal verb): to meet unexpectedly: vô tình gặp ai đó.
Eg: I came across Adele at a tourist attraction in London yesterday.
Tôi vô tình gặp Adele ở một điểm tham quan nổi tiếng ở London hôm qua.

 to explore (verb): to travel around an area, in order to get to know it: khám phá (thường hay đi
với điểm du lịch)
Eg: Foreign tourists need to spend at least two weeks to explore Vietnam.
Khách du lịch nước ngoài thường dành ra 2 tuần để khám phá Việt Nam.
 tourist attraction (noun): an interesting place for tourists to visit: điểm du lịch nổi tiếng.
Eg: Ben Thanh market is a well-known tourist attraction.
Chợ Bến Thành là một điểm du lịch nổi tiếng.
 to bargain / haggle over prices (verb): to argue about the price of something in order to reach
agreement: trả giá.
Eg: Tourists should haggle before they buy something in China, as prices are usually unreasonably
expensive.
Khách du lịch nên trả giá đi đến Trung Quốc bởi giá thường mắc một cách vô lý.
 to encounter (verb): to experience something, especially something difficult or unpleasant: gặp

(thường là khó khăn, thử thách).
Eg: Vietnam is encountering environmental problems such as pollution and deforestation.
Việt Nam đang gặp phải vấn đề về môi trường.
 to leak (verb): to give information secretly
Eg: My sister leaked the news of my wedding plans before I had the chance to tell my friends.
 down (adjective): sad or depressed

Eg: When I failed the exam, I felt down, but then I became determined to study harder.
178. Describe a childhood friend of yours

(Describe a friend you lost contact with and started contacting again)
You should say:
Who he or she is and how you got in contact?
What he or she is like?
And explain how you felt about it?
(Who he or she is and how you got in contact)
A few weeks ago, I surprisingly bumped into one of my high school friends, Quang, who I had not heard
from for years. It was a Saturday evening, I was jogging on my way home from the park. It is a part of
my routine life to go for a stroll to recharge myself after demanding working hours. Quang called my
name and I was completely shocked because I never expected to see him again after hearing the news
about him studying abroard in the U.S. He told me that he came back to Vietnam for the summer holiday.
We decided to go to a nearby cafe so that we could talk longer and share some updates with each other.
(What he or she is like?)
Since high-school, Quang has been outstanding in academics and sports as well. When we were in school,
he was the captain of the football team. In studies, he was always among the top four-five students.
Despite all this, he was very modest, and still he is very modest. It was such fun talking to him. Quang
told me that he picked information technology as his major in college because he thought it would benefit
his career prospects with higher chances of internship or an enviable salary in the U.S. He was quite

overwhelmed with such a different culture initially, yet adapted to it over time. Actually, I was a little
bit surprised that he went against his parents’ will to study abroad, as his mom always expected him to
be a dedicated doctor. At the same time, I shared some of my university stories with him, so that he could
understand better about the normal life of a Vietnamese student.
(And explain how you felt about it?)
I think it was a bittersweet feeling getting in touch with him after so long. It was an interesting experience
to get to know more about him and his changes over the course of 3 years in such an advanced
environment like the US. Unlike his reserved image in the past, Quang tended to exude more confidence.
He realized that discovering more about the cultures and customs of different nations gives him a fresh
perspective of the world. His studying tips and hands-on experience were also informative and
applicable. Even though we may have changed during the time we hadn’t seen each other, I could still
feel the attachment and respect between us.
Vocabulary:
1. bump into [expression]: to meet someone you know when you have not planned to meet
them: tình cờ gặp ai
Eg: W e bum ped i nt o Am y when we were i n t own l ast week.
2. go for a stroll [expression]: to walk somewhere in a slow, relaxed way for enjoyment: đi
dạo
Eg: It was a really pretty afternoon, so we went for a stroll and then sat at an outdoor café for
an hour or two.
3. career prospect [n]: the probability or chance for future success in a profession: triển vọng nghề
nghiệp
Eg: The training awards can improve career prospects for trainees and apprentices.

4. internship [n]: a period of time during which someone works for a company or organization in
order to get experience of a particular type of work: giai đoạn thử việc
Eg: Jane has a summer internship at a local TV station.
5. enviable [adj]: (esp. of a quality or advantage) causing you to wish that you also possessed it;
desirable: đáng mơ ước, ngưỡng mộ
Eg: She has an enviable ability to work under pressure.
Eg: We are overwhelmed with data from every quarter, and our capacity to filter fact from
fraud is limited.
7. reserved [adj]: reserved people do not often talk about or show their feelings or thoughts:
dè dặt
Eg: Marcus is more reserved than his brother.
8. exude [v]: if you exude love, confidence, pain, etc., you show that you have a lot of that feeling:
toát ra
Eg: She just exudes confidence and captivates everyone in the room.
9. perspective [n]: a particular way of considering something: quan điểm
Eg: Her attitude lends a fresh perspective to the subject.
10. attachment [n]: a feeling of love or strong connection to someone or something: sự gắn bó
Eg: At university I formed a strong attachment to one of my tutors.
179. Describe a magazine you enjoy reading.
You should say:

What it is
How often you read it
What you learn from it
Why you like it

(What it is)
To be honest, I am usually engrossed in reading in my spare time, so much that I buy not only books
but also newspapers and magazines to read almost every day. I am going to describe my favorite fashion
magazine named “Elle”. I have been enjoying it for 2 years or so. It is not a long period of time, but I
have never missed any of its issues.
(How often you read it)
It is a popular magazine which is published monthly in Vietnam. Therefore, I order Elle every month
and read each issue over and over again. I start to read this magazine as soon as it is delivered to my
home, and then I read it through again later at my leisure at the weekend.
(What you learn from it)
I enjoy reading up on new information about lifestyle and on-trend fashion all over the world. As a
shopaholic, I find that it helps me a lot in catching up with the latest hot trends. I can learn from the
magazine and then change my style to be more fashionable and elegant. Besides that, this magazine also
runs stories about celebrities and famous fashion brands. This provides me with a source of material
that is useful for my major in Fashion Design.
(Why you like it)
Although there are several other attractive magazines, Elle is still my preferred cup of tea since it has
some useful contents and eye-catching images, which tend to stick in my mind. For me in particular,
and women in general, its beauty column is absolutely amazing with information about best- selling
cosmetic products, beauty tips and various make-up styles. Moreover, I am fond of this magazine
because it offers advice for women on romance and love life. I also find that it is funny to read the
horoscope column and find out what the stars predict for the month ahead. I really enjoy it.
Vocabulary:

Các từ thuộc chủ đề Reading:
1. be engrossed in
Meaning: to be completely focused on something
Example: A good work-life balance is important, because if people are too engrossed in their work,
their family life may suffer.
2. read up on
Meaning: to find information in a book or other written source about something
Example: When deciding which university course to study, it is essential to read up on all the available
information before making your choice.
3. run a story
Meaning: to print an article about something or somebody
Example: The media nowadays runs many stories about environmental problems.
4. stick in your mind

Meaning: (of a memory or an image) to remember for a long time
Example: The memory of my first day at university still sticks in my mind.
Vocabulary:
 issue [noun]: a publication of a magazine or newspaper that appears at regular intervals (eg.
each day/each month) ấn phẩm. Eg: The January issue of Elle will contain some special articles
on sports fashions.
 published monthly [expression]: appearing as a new issue every month. xuất bản hàng tháng.
Eg: Like the majority of magazines, Elle is published monthly.
 over and over again [expression]: many times; repeatedly. lặp đi lặp lại nhiều lần
Eg: The story of the earthquake was repeated over and over again on the news yesterday.

 lifestyle [noun]: the way that a person lives and the activities they do. phong cách
Eg: He dreams of a lifestyle of fast cars, celebrity status, and lots of money.
 on-trend fashion [expression]: styles which are popular and fashionable at the moment. xu
hướng thời trang. Eg: Designers in Italy dictate the on-trend fashions for clothes in Europe.
 shopaholic [noun]: a person who is always shopping (too much). người nghiện mua sắm
Eg: I’m not a shopaholic, but I sometimes spend hours in bookshops.
 catch up with [phrasal verb]: to find out all the latest information about something. theo kịp
Eg: I phoned John today, to catch up with the news about his holiday in Thailand.
 be my cup of tea [expression] =be my favorite. Eg: I have never liked romantic films – they’re
not my cup of tea.
 eye-catching image [expression]: a picture/photo or scene which captures your attention. hình
ảnh bắt mắt. Eg: The new advert for Nike has an eye-catching image of famous sportspeople
all wearing Nike clothes.
 beauty tip [noun]: a short piece of advice on how to look more beautiful. mẹo làm đẹp
Eg: I read a useful beauty tip today, suggested by a famous model.
Part 3:
Do you think headlines are important?
(Give direct answer to the question) Yes, I think that headlines are absolutely essential. (Explain
your reasons) In this busy world, people have to decide instantly whether something is worth their time
or not. Therefore, it is the headline’s job to entice readers and capture their attention so that they ignore
all other distractions and read the article to find out more. (Give an example) I, for instance, was
attracted by the headline “Reading kills your future” at first sight so I made a decision to read this news
item immediately. (Explain the opposite or alternative) If writers do not pay attention to the headline,
their writing will be ignored even though its content leaves a thoughtful message or gives useful
information.
Vocabulary:
 It is something’s job to V: đây là nhiệm vụ của…để…

Example: it is my job to raise funds for the mountain children.
 Capture attention: thu hút sự chú ý
Example: the painting captured my attention at first glimpse.
 Distraction: sự phân tâm
Example: he found music a distraction when he was learning.
 Leave message: truyền tải thông điệp
Example: the video left a message on all youngsters.
 Entice: thu hút, lôi kéo
Example: I was enticed by colorful snacks.
Which is more important: fashionable or advertising news?
(Give direct answer to the question) In my opinion, advertising news is more important than the
fashionable one. (Explain your reasons) Advertising new plays an integral role in promoting product
consumption of all brands while fashion news may be attractive but forgotten soon. The creativity of
advertising grabs attention and leaves an impression in people's minds. Thus, it will work more
effectively than a fashion news . (Give an example) Every Sunday, I shop at the local supermarket. I
recognize that all the goods that I pick up appear in o advertising that I have seen on the internet or TV.
Vocabulary:
 Promote product consumption: thúc đẩy tiêu thụ sản phẩm
Example: the new shampoo package promotes its product consumption.
 Grab attention: thu hút
Example: her blue eyes grabbed my attention.
 Leave an impression: để lại ấn tượng
Example: the singer’s beautiful voice left an impression on methat I will never forget her.
 Pick up: cầm lên
Example: my brother picked up a pair of white shoes after considering it for half an hour.
Do you think the government has the right to censor magazines?

(Give direct answer to the question) No, I completely believe that the government should not have the
right to censor magazines. (Explain your reasons) Censorship prevents people from gaining access to

information that shouldn’t really be restricted or kept out of bounds. The spread and sharing of
information would be stifled. (Give an example) Let’s imagine that we have to read an article that is
controlled by the government, which means it is only the news that government allows us to know.
(Explain the opposite or alternative) When the media like magazines is censored, it can easily lead to
public manipulation.
Vocabulary:
 Gain access to something: tiếp cận cái gì
Example: in modern life, people can easily gain access to the internet.
 Be kept out of bounds: kiểm soát
Example: the information about this corruption case was kept out of bounds.
 Public manipulation: sự thao túng dư luận
Example: Public manipulation should be prevented during the election.
 To be stifled: ngột ngạt, gò bó
Example: the street was stifled by the fumes.
Do you think everything we read on the magazines is true?

(Give direct answer to the question) No, I do not believe that everything in magazines is accurate.
(Explain your reasons) Since all magazine articles are tproduced for people, it is more likely to be the
personal comment of the author on the topic rather than the truth. (Give an example) Let’s take a column
of a star’s life on Đẹp Magazine as an example. The journalist wrote about the ups and downs of Marilyn
Monroe from her viewpoint but the article was controversial because Marilyn Monroe passed away years
ago and the information could not be checked. (Explain the opposite or alternative) If we completely
believe in magazines, we may be gainingfalse information that the authors give on the topics outside
their scope of expertise.
Vocabulary:
 To be likely to V: có khả năng…
Example: a flood is likely to occur this weekend.
 Comment on something: ý kiến về việc gì, cái gì
Example: her praising comment on my writing made my day.

 Take something as an example: lấy cái gì, việc gì làm ví dụ
Example: I would like to take the eye disease as an example of the bad impacts of the overuse of mobile
phones.
 Ups and downs: thăng trầm
Example: the ups and downs of President Ho Chi Minh were the subject of many documentaries.
 Pass away: qua đời
Example: my grandmother passed away when I was a kid.
 Outside the scope of expertise: ngoài phạm vi chuyên môn
Example: I cannot put forward my solution to this problem because it is outside my scope of expertise.
180. Describe a city or country where you want to live the most in the future
You should say:
What it is
Where it is located
Why you would like to live there
(What it is)
I would like to talk about the city of Melbourne, which is known as the city with the best quality of life
worldwide, and also the place where I want to spend my life.
(Where it is located)
To give you more information, Melbourne is the state capital of Victoria, situated in the south of
Australia. It took me about 8 hours to fly there from my hometown. In addition to having a uniquely
favourable location, to me Melbourne is also special in many other ways.
(Why you would like to live there)
There are three main reasons why I want to live in Melbourne. The first thing I want to mention is the
extraordinary weather there. There can be four seasons to be felt in just a single day. People may wake
up getting slight goosebumps because of the chill morning, only to feel quite hot at noon, then get
surprised by the strong winds of the afternoon, and finally go to bed with winter clothes, because the

temperatures can drop very sharply at the end of the day. Although the changeable weather may sound
annoying and uncomfortable, it is bearable because the changes take place slowly and naturally during
the course of the days and seasons.
Secondly, I love Melbourne for its high level of safety and security. The crime rate in this city is really
low and police officers work really closely with the community. They are always easy to reach and
quick to show up when people need help. There are no dangerous inner-city areas to avoid, and
suburban life in particular is very safe for families with children and the elderly.
Last but not least, Melbourne is a diverse community, with people from many minority groups who
bring their own contribution to the life of the city. People come from all over the world and from all
classes to reside here. If I lived in Melbourne, I would have invaluable opportunities to meet people from
various backgrounds, and to learn a lot in such a multicultural society through the cuisine, the customs
and the stories people bring with them. Life there would never be boring.
Vocabulary:
Các từ thuộc chủ đề Cities:

1. inner city areas
Meaning: the parts near the centre of a city, which often have social problems
Example: Recent immigrants to cities often have to live in crowded inner city areas which have huge
problems of crime and poverty.
2. suburban life
Meaning: life in areas where people live outside the centre of a city
Example: Most people prefer a quiet suburban life to living in a noisy and crowded inner city area.
Các từ thuộc chủ đề Society:

1. minority groups

Meaning: small groups within a community that are different because of their origin, religion, language
or traditions
Example: Children from minority groups are sometimes victims of bullying at school.
2. a multicultural society
Meaning: a society which includes people of different origins, traditions and languages
Example: Immigration has led to the development of multicultural societies in the US, Europe and
Australia.
Vocabulary:
 state capital [noun]: the capital city of a particular state within a country: thủ phủ bang
Eg: While Melbourne is the state capital of Victoria, Canberra is the capital of Australia.
 extraordinary [adjective]: unusual and surprising: lạ thường, độc đáo

Eg: It is extraordinary how English has become an international language, spoken by many millions of
people.
 to get goosebumps [expression]: to be so cold that you get small pimples on your skin: nổi da
gà
Eg: When I came out of the shower, the changing room in the gym was so cold that I got goosebumps
and so I got dressed very quickly.
 changeable weather [expression]: weather that changes frequently, for example from rain to
sunshine, or from hot to cold: thời tiết thay đổi liên tục
Eg: I don’t mind the changeable weather in London, but I always take my umbrella with me in the
morning.
 bearable [adjective]: that can be tolerated: chịu đựng được

Eg: The heat in summer in Australia is bearable, but drink plenty of water.

 high level of safety and security [expression]: being very safe and well-protected against crime:
mức độ an toàn và bảo mật cao
Eg: She lives in a quiet area of the city, which has a high level of safety and security.
 (low) crime rate [noun]: the number of crimes committed in a particular place: tỷ lệ tội phạm
(thấp)
Eg: The low crime rate in the city this year means that people are less afraid of attacks by criminals.
 to work closely with [expression]: to work in cooperation with others, in regular

communication: làm việc rất mật thiết, gần gũi với
Eg: Local residents are working closely with the police to reduce crime in the neighbourhood.
 easy to reach [expression]: easy to get into contact with: dễ liên lạc
Eg: She’s easy to reach, she’s always got her mobile phone with her.
 to show up [phrasal verb]: to arrive:

Eg: Charles showed up 5 minutes late for his interview, so he didn’t get the job.
 diverse community [expression]: a community with people from many different origins and
cultures: cộng đồng đa dạng
Eg: New York has such a diverse community that you can hear 100 different languages if you walk
through Times Square.
 backgrounds [noun]: origins of place and social class: nền tảng

Eg: Rich people with privileged backgrounds have many more opportunities and choices in life.
 cuisine [noun]: style and tradition of cooking: ẩm thực

Eg: In Paris, it is easy to find restaurants which serve Vietnamese cuisine.

181.Describe an important event to celebrate (personal important events)
You should say:
- What it was
- When did it happen
- Do you prefer to celebrate it with a group of people
-And explain how you felt about it
(What is it)
Taking up scuba-diving was by far one of the most important events in my life. To be honest, I had never
been very keen on sports before, especially as far as water sports were concerned, but once I tried
scuba-diving, I completely changed my attitude towards an active way of life. I had not been familiar
with the equipment that professional divers use either until one holiday in Nha Trang, when my father
came up with the idea of taking a course in scuba-diving.
(When did it happen)
It was last summer when my whole family celebrated my parents’ wedding anniversary in Nha Trang.
As the weather was unbearably hot, we wanted to travel to places with breathtaking beaches, sunshine
and delicious sea food. While we were walking alongside the beach, my father suggested I experience
scuba-diving, with the hope that I could be more physically and mentally able to confront the university
entrance examination.
(Do you prefer to celebrate it with a group of people)
Even though the feeling of immersing myself in the fresh water was self-gratifying, I also wanted to
share it with my family and my friends. Although the event is not an achievement or something like that,

it pushed me out of my comfort zone and motivated me to overcome my inner fears. Given the chance,
I wish my close friends had been there that day to celebrate that with me.
I was a bit frightened at the beginning as I found out that such a person of weak physical strength and
stamina as me would have to put not only a tank on, but also a weight belt. But as it turned out, it was
not that intimidating at all, contrary to what I had previously thought. I found myself in cool water,
where I could breathe freely as well as move easily. The only thing I could tell anyone who does not
know whether to do something or not is: do not hesitate and try, because it may become an important
event in your life, just like it was in my case.
Vocabulary:
94. as far as sth is concerned [expression]: about (something): with regard to (something):
đối với cái gì đó
Eg: He has no worries as far as mone y i s concerned.
95. familiar with [adj]: to know something or someone well: quen thuộc với
Eg: I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with your poetry.
96. unbearably [adv]: in a way that is too painful or unpleasant for you to continue to experience:
một cách không thể chịu đựng được
Eg: The novel, while almost unbearably sad, is still a joy to read.
97. breathtaking [adj]: extremely exciting, beautiful, or surprising: đẹp ngoạn mục
Eg: The view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking.
98. confront [v]: to face, meet, or deal with a difficult situation or person: đương đ ầu với
Eg: It's an issue we'll have to confront, no matter how unpleasant it is.
99. comfort zone [expression]: a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your ability
and determination are not being tested: vùng an toàn

100. inner [adj]: inner feelings or thoughts are ones that you do not show or tell other people:
bên trong
Eg: Sarah seemed to have a profound sense of inner peace.
101. stamina [n]: the physical and/or mental strength to do something that might be
difficult and will take a long time: sức bền
Eg: The triathlon is a great test of stamina.
102. intimidating [adj]: making you feel frightened or nervous: đáng sợ
Eg: She can be very intimidating when she's angry.
103. hesitate [v]: to pause before you do or say something, often because you are uncertain
or nervous about it: do dự
Eg: She hesitated slightly before answering the detective's question.
PART 3:
1. Describe another important event
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, there are a variety of crucial events in one’s life that are
worth recalling. (Explain your reason or reasons) Last year’s Tet holiday is quite memorable because
our extended family reunited and had a whale of time. In our tradition, we start the year with the hope
of eliminating the bitterness and failure of the past year and start a fresh year with the hope of fortune
and happiness. (Give an example (often a personal example)) During Tet, there are a lot of long-
preserved customs, such as giving lucky money to children, visiting friends’ houses and going to
churches, temples or pagodas to pray for their family.
2. Is it possible for the Vietnamese chairman to write letters for citizens over 100 years old as the
queen write letters for them in her country?
(Give a direct answer to the question) This question is quite out of my depth, to be honest, yet I would
say that it is quite possible. (Explain your reason or reasons) Actually, I just know that our national
chairman maintains the annual tradition of sending the formal Happy New Year’s letter to citizens of
every part of the country.
3. How do people celebrate public events?

(Give a direct answer to the question) In my opinion, the ways to celebrate public events vary from
country to country and even from people to people (Explain your reason or reasons) During major
public events, street lights change colors, decorations are hung, and festivals turn sleepy downtowns into
large-scale celebrations for locals. Just as families and individuals adorn their homes with ornaments
and trimmings, cities use their public spaces to welcome the end of the year and local holidays. (Give
an example (often a personal example)) For example, each year on December 31st, the streets and
squares of big cities like Sai Gon or Ha Noi are filled with people celebrating the new year.
4. Do you think it is important to celebrate events?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Of course it is. Festivals have both social and economic benefits.
(Explain your reason or reasons) Festivals act like stress relievers and help us balance our emotions.
More positivity naturally lowers negativity. It also provides an opportunity to reduce friction and brings
estranged friends and relatives together in a bond of love. (Give an example (often a personal
example)) As a matter of fact, many celebrations focus on cultural or ethnic topics and seek to inform
community members of their traditions. They involve community elders sharing stories and experiences;
setting templates for maintaining unity among families.
5. Should the event be prepared in advance?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Probably yes. (Explain your reason or reasons) It is true to say
that the success of any event is the result of a careful and thorough plan. Creating this plan takes time
and effort which can sometimes take a great deal of time to construct. After all, proper preparations
prevent unexpected incidents and ensure everybody in the event feels contented.
6. How to prepare an activity?
(Give a direct answer to the question) There are a lot of considerations when preparing for an activity.
(Give an example (often a personal example)) Clear objectives should be devised, teammates or
members should be gathered and delegated tasks appropriately. They can help with everything from
preparing schedules and budgets, to making invites and posters, to welcoming in guests and doing the
dirty work of cleaning up afterward. Besides, all possible expenses, incomes, sponsors, and contingent
expenses for the activity should be included.
Vocabulary:

104. reunite [v]: to bring people together again: hội ngộ
Eg: He was reunited with his sister after 14 years.
105. bitterness [n]: a feeling of anger and unhappiness: sự cay đắng

Eg: He was full of bitterness after he lost his job.
106. out of one’s depth [expression]: not having the knowledge, experience, or skills to deal
with a particular subject or situation: ngoài tầm hiểu biết
Eg: I was out of my depth in the advanced class, so I moved to the intermediate class.
107. large-scale [adj]: involving many people or things, or happening over a large area: trên
diện rộng
Eg: We must improve our response to large-scale natural disasters.
108. ornament [n]: decoration that is added to increase the beauty of something: đồ trang trí
Eg: The building relies on clever design rather than on ornament for its impressive effect.
109. friction [n]: disagreement or unfriendliness caused by people having different opinions:
sự mâu thuẫn
Eg: Border clashes have led to increased friction between the two countries.
110. estranged [adj]: if you are estranged from your family or friends, you have had a serious
argument with them and are no longer friendly with them: xa lạ, tách rời
Eg: It's sad to see someone estranged from their parents.
111. ethnic [adj]: relating to a particular race of people: thuộc về dân tộc
Eg: Disturbances have once again broken out between the two ethnic groups.
112. thorough [adj]: detailed and careful: chi tiết, tường tận
Eg: They did a thorough search of the area but found nothing.
113. delegate [v]: to give a particular job, duty, right, etc. to someone else so that they do it
for you: phân công việc
Eg: Authority to make financial decisions has been delegated to a special committee.
182. Describe a situation when you had to be polite

You should say:

What it was
What did you do to be polite?
Why did you have to be polite?
And explain how you felt about it afterwards
(What it was)
I’d like to tell a story of my first interview. It was for a white-collar job in an entertainment company.
Since it was a formal interview, you know, I prepared carefully and tried to be as professional and polite
as I could.
(Why did you have to be polite?)
Obviously, a job interview always turns out to be a serious event, despite the efforts of the interviewers
to make it more comfortable. Hence, keeping a respectful attitude and behaving politely are important.
Aside from that, the company I applied for was pretty renowned in the entertainment industry, so it just
made more sense for me to be as courteous as possible. I mean, the chances of being shortlisted would
definitely be higher if I could show my polite attitude, apart from my experience and all sorts of other
stuff.
(What did you do to be polite?)
Because it was my first experience of having an interview, I felt so anxious that I couldn’t actually sleep
the previous night. I didn’t want to squander my chance. I ended up oversleeping the next day, but
thank God I still arrived on time for the interview. As it was a formal occasion, I put on a white blouse,
a black miniskirt, and high heels, like a typical office woman. Despite my fears, the interview ran
smoothly. The interviewers were so nice and friendly. They showed no rudeness or arrogance and
responded to my greetings in a gentle way. They even made small talk at first, probably to help relieve
my nervousness. As a result, I got calmer and answered all the questions confidently. I couldn’t have a
completely laid-back attitude, and I had to be wary of being too familiar. Still, as the atmosphere got
more pleasant, I managed to stop worrying about using formal words and expressions, all that stuff, and
focused more on speaking my mind.
(Explain how you felt about it afterwards)

It was a relief when the interview ended. A week later, I received an acceptance email from the company
and was placed on a probation period. I was extremely happy and I felt like I was floating on air for
the rest of the day.
That’s my experience of being extremely polite on a particular occasion.
Vocabulary
Từ vựng chủ đề Business and Money
1. white-collar
Meaning: working in an office, not a factory
Example: The insurance company is advertising some white collar jobs, if you want to apply.
2. to squander a chance
Meaning: to waste an opportunity, by not taking advantage of it
Example: He squandered a chance to go to university by failing to study for his entrance exam.
Từ vựng chủ đề Communication and Personality:

1. to make small talk/to exchange pleasantries
Meaning: to talk in a polite way about unimportant matters such as the weather
Example: I enjoy a serious discussion and I don’t like to make small talk or exchange pleasantries with
others simply in order to be polite.
Dịch đại ý
To make small talk/ to exchange pleasantries: nói chuyện xã giao
Nghĩa: nói chuyện một cách lịch sự về những vấn đề không quan trọng lắm, ví dụ như thời tiết
Ví dụ: Tôi thích những cuộc nói chuyện nghiêm túc chứ không thích nói chuyện xã giao với người khác
chỉ vì phép lịch sự.
2. to have a laid-back attitude
Meaning: relaxed, not worrying about anything
Example: Our teacher had a laid-back attitude in the classroom, but she was always well-prepared and
committed to her students.
Dịch đại ý

To have a laid-back attitude: thư giãn, thả lỏng, thong thả
Nghĩa: thư giãn, không lo lắng gì cả
Ví dụ: Cô giáo chúng tỗi có vẻ rất thong thả trong lớp, nhưng cô ấy luôn chuẩn bị kĩ và hết mình với học
sinh.
Từ vựng chủ đề Media and Advertising

1. to be wary of
Meaning: not completely trusting or certain about something (đề phòng)
Example: Consumers must always be wary of the claims made in advertisements, because such claims
are often untrue.
Từ vựng khác
1. (to) turn out [phrasal verb]
Meaning: to be discovered to be; to prove to be: hóa ra là.
Example: The job turned out to be harder than we thought.
2. renowned [adjective]
(famous): nổi tiếng
Example: That restaurant is renowned for its Southwestern-style food.
3. (to) shortlist [verb]
Meaning: to put somebody/something on a shortlist for a job, prize, etc : cho ai vào vòng trong
Example: Candidates who are shortlisted for interview will be contacted by the end of the week.
4. familiar [adjective]
Meaning: very informal, in a way that is not appropriate (quen thuộc)
Example: Our tutor is strict, and students are not allowed to talk to him in a familiar way.
5. probation [noun]
Meaning: a time of training and testing when you start a new job to see if you are suitable for the work:
thử việc.
Example: I’m on a period of probation and just receive 80% of the regular wage.
6. (to) float on air [expression]
Meaning: to feel very happy

Example: On their wedding day, most couples feel like they are floating on air.
183.Describe a car/motorbike/bike trip that is interesting.

You should say:
Where you would like to go
How you would like to go there
Who you would like to go with
And explain why you would like to go there by car/motorbike or bike
(Where you would like to go) Travelling is one of my biggest passions which gives me the incentive
to work hard and study hard. The place that I have dreamed of visiting since I was young is Arashi
Kaikyo bridge in Japan. I stumbled upon the bridge when watching anime and the way that the bridge
was demonstrated in the amine was just impressive. I was intrigued by the massiveness of the bridge,
although I had already known the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
(How you would like to go there) According to the information, there is a dedicated lane for bicycles
on the bridge. And whenever I hear of the name of the bridge, cycling is always the first one to spring
my mind. Being slightly longer than 3 km in length, the bridge offers such an ideal distance for those
who interested in the idea of cycling along the bridge. Therefore, if I ever have a chance to pay a visit to
the Arashi Kaikyo, cycling will definitely my top choice.
(Who you would like to go with) It will be perfect if someone I love sits behind me on the bicycle. Of
course, isn’t it good to ride someone you love on one of the most magnificent bridge in the world?
(And explain why you would like to go there by car/motorbike or bike) The bridge is especially
appropriate for those who would like to cycle. Firstly, it is neither too long nor too short for an ordinary
adult to try their hands at exploring the bridge with a bicycle. Secondly, those who interested in taking
photos can just stop wherever they want and take a snap shot, while car drivers are not allowed to do
this.

1. To give someone an incentive (phrase): khuyến khích ai đó.
If you want people to change their behaviour, it's a good idea to give them some kind of incentive.
Nếu bạn muốn họ đổi tính cách, bạn nên khuyến khích họ.
2. To stumble upon (phrase): vô tình thấy cái gì đó.

Workmen stumbled upon the mosaic while digging foundations for a new building.
Những người công nhân vô tình thấy bức mosaic khi đang đào móng cho tòa nhà mới.
3. To intrigue (v): làm ai đó thấy thích/tò mò

Throughout history, people have been intrigued by the question of whether there is intelligent life
elsewhere in the universe.
Suốt chiều dài lịch sử, con người luôn bị tò mò về câu hỏi liệu có sự sống ngoài hành tinh không.
4. To spring to mind (phrase): “đập” vào đầu.

Say the word "Australia" and a vision of beaches and blue seas immediately springs to mind.
Nếu ai đó nói từ Australia thì hình ảnh của biển và đại dương xanh liền đập vào đầu tôi.
5. Magnificent (adj): tuyệt vời.

a magnificent view
khung cảnh tuyệt vời
6. To try hand at sth (phrase): thử sức.

Mike decided to try his hand at tennis.
Mike quyết định thử sức mình với tennis.
7. To take a snap shot (phrase): chụp lẹ một tấm hình.

Stumbling upon a beautiful tree beside the street, Jenny stops to take a snap shot.
Vô tình nhìn thấy một cái cây rất đẹp bên đường, Jenny dừng lại để chụp lẹ một tấm hình.

184. Describe a singer that you like
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What type of songs she sings
-And explain why she is your favorite singer
There are so many famous people that I adore but the one I’m going to describe today is my all-time
favorite singer –Taylor Swift. Born in America in 1989, this 30-year-old woman currently plays a very
important role in American music. As one of the world's leading contemporary recording artists, she
is known for narrative songs about her personal life, which have received widespread media coverage.
No one would have believed that this small town girl would become a worldwide phenomenon. She is
one of twelve women to appear in Time's 100 most influential people in the world at least three times
(2010, 2015, 2019), and Forbes' lists of top-earning women in music (2011–2015), 100 most powerful
women (2015), and Celebrity 100 (2016).
(What type of songs she sings)
Taylor's first single, "Tim McGraw," was a huge success, which cemented Taylor's position as an up-
and-coming country star. 4 years later, it was during the time between Speak Now and the release of
"We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" that Taylor's personal style began to change. Her
signature ringlets were replaced with smooth, straight locks and her princess-like dresses were replaced
with trendy shorts and bowler hats. The new single's upbeat tempo and hard-hitting lyrics also marked
a change in Taylor, firmly establishing her as a pop princess.
(And explain why she is your favorite singer)

Taylor Swift interests me and numerous other fans for different reasons. On the one hand, her products
are awesome in both music and images, which show complete commitment to her singing career.
Especially, with her recent inspirational songs, especially written for women, she really gets out of her
comfort zone and I feel her songs somehow express her inner true character. Above all, Taylor always
works with her gift through perspiration, which is the very factor for her worldwide popularity. Her
story encourages you never to lose yourself when you’re in trouble. To make your dream come true is
the best way to prove yourself.
Vocabulary:
114. contemporary [adj]: existing or happening now: đương thời, hiện tại
Eg: Thes e are radical changes whi ch wi ll alt er t he com pl exi on of the Britis h
contemporary dance scene.
115. phenomenon [n]: something that exists and can be seen, felt, tasted, etc.,
especially something unusual or interesting: hiện tượng
Eg: Do you believe in the paranormal and other psychic phenomena?
116. influential [adj]: having a lot of influence on someone or something: có tầm ảnh hưởng
Eg: He has his own ways of beating the system, making sure that he has good relationships with
influential people.
117. cement [v]: to make something stronger: củng cố
Eg: The university's exchange scheme has cemented its links with many other academic institutions.
118. signature [adj]: used to describe the product or service that a company or person is
known for: đặc trưng
Eg: Rock Fish is the signature dish of his favourite restaurant.
119. upbeat [adj]: full of hope, happiness, and good feelings: lạc quan, vui vẻ
Eg: Live music and a parade set an upbeat mood for the official opening.
120. commitment [n]: a willingness to give your time and energy to something that you
believe in, or a promise or firm decision to do something: sự tận tâm

Eg: We must make a commitment to universities and to research and development, because
that is very clear now.
121. inspirational [adj]: making you feel full of hope or encouraged: truyền cảm hứng
Eg: He gave an inspirational reading of his own poems.
122. comfort zone [expression]: a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your
ability and determination are not being tested: vùng an toàn
123. perspiration [n]: the process of sweating: sự đổ mồ hôi
Eg: He failed to do this, but found that shed blood and perspiration had no more attraction for
females than had water.
185. Describe a happy experience you had. You should say:

- What it is
- Who you were with
- What exactly happened
- Explain how you feel about it now.
(What it is) Happy moments turn up without notice and it seems like I have had dozens of experiences
in which I feel satisfied and happy. However, the joyful experience that is imprinted on my memory
with most to remember was the moment when I was brought around the city-state of Singapore 2 months
ago by a local friend with whom I got to know during my one-week visit.
(Who you were with) I got the chance to go on a foreign study trip to Singapore under a programme
named “TF-SCALE”, which emphasised leadership and water reservation. On our orientation day, I
made up my mind to choose a Malay local named Fit as my buddy and this was one of the wisest
decisions I have ever made. Fit is a high-flyer who has a profound knowledge of Singapore’s history,
geography and attractions.
(What exactly happened) In my last evening in Singapore, when we were not occupied with sessions,
Fit, as a knowledgeable “tour guide”, accompanied me around the city. Albeit having been to Singapore
for up to 5 times, the places to which he took me were not familiar at all. Not until we went up to the top

of the former tallest hotel in the world named Swissôtel The Stamford did I realise that the hotel also
catered for middle-class citizens as we were not charged to enjoy the city view from the top of the
building. We drank a cocktail with a spectacular view of the Marina Bay bristling with magnificent
high rises.
(Explain how you felt about it now) I feel that I really owe Fit a great debt of gratitude for the whole
week he spent with me. Albeit up to his ears in deadlines and part-time job, he tried to make use of
every single moment to help me take the best out of Singapore, visit the places which a normal foreign
tourist would not know and enjoy the culinary delights of Singapore.
1. To imprint on someone’s memory (phrase): để lại dấu ấn.

Example: It was an extraordinary sight that will remain imprinted on my memory.
Cảnh đẹp này sẽ mãi để lại dấu ấn trong tâm trí tôi.
2. High-flyer (n): một người có tố chất để đạt kết quả tốt.

Example: A well-regarded business manager, he is a high-flyer in all areas of his life.
Là một người quản lý được kính trọng, ông ấy có tố chất tốt để thành công trong mọi lĩnh vực.
3. Profound (adj): to lớn.

Example: His mother's death when he was aged six had a very profound effect on him.
Việc mẹ qua đời chỉ khi mới 6 tuổi có tác động to lớn đến anh ấy.
4. To be occupied with something (phrase): bị bận rộn với cái gì đó.

Example: He’s still fully occupied with writing his report.
Anh ấy vẫn đang rất bận rộn với công việc viết báo cáo.
5. To accompany someone (v): đi cùng ai đó.

Example: I have two tickets for the theatre on Saturday evening - would you like to accompany me?
Tôi có 2 vé xem kịch vào tối thứ 7, bạn có muốn đi cùng với tôi không?
6. To cater for someone (v): phục vụ ai đó.

Example: I'm catering for twelve on Sunday - the whole family is coming.
Tôi sẽ phục vụ cho 12 người vào ngày Chủ nhật – cả gia đình họ sẽ đến.
7. To be bristling with something (phrase): có rất nhiều cái gì đó.

Example: The helicopter hovered above them bristling with machine guns.
Máy bay trực thăng đang bay đên đầu họ có rất nhiều súng máy.
8. To owe someone a debt of gratitude (phrase): nợ ai 1 lời cảm ơn.

Example: Singapore owes Lee Kuan Yew a debt of gratitude.
Singapore nợ Lý Quang Diệu một lời cảm ơn.
9. To be up to ears (idiom): rất bận rộn.

Example: I'm up to my ears in work.
Tôi rất bận rộn với công việc.
186. Describe an important place in your city.

You should say:
- What is this development
- How could it help people
- What benefits it could bring
- And explain whether it changes your life or not
(What is this development)
I’m going to describe a recent development in my city, which is the establishment of the Vincom center.
Located in the city center, this giant 33-floor building is a complex of shopping mall, hotels and offices.

The project was initiated in September 2015 and is now reaching completion. For a small province
like my city, the advent of Vincom is undoubtedly a welcoming development.
(How could it help people)
As a shopping heaven and entertainment center, Vincom will cater to the spending and recreational
demand of local people. With a wider range of goods and services, overall consumer spending will be
strongly stimulated, which favors the provincial economy. The center will also allow foreign visitors to
purchase a greater diversity of goods, as compared to other supermarkets in the past.
(What benefits it could bring)
Well, such a huge project brings with it innumerable benefits. Firstly, the construction and operation of
Vincom will offer numerous job opportunities for the locals. Secondly, the Vincom center with its state-
of-the-art offices will also provide a modern, convenient, and professional working environment for
employees. Most importantly, the success of Vincom will lay the very foundation for other large-scale
investments in my city.
(And explain whether it changes your life or not)
Apparently, the arrival of the Vincom center should exert a far-reaching and long-term influence on
the lives of local people in plenty of ways, such as the economy, tourism. As a part of the city, I feel
really excited about this progressive turn and I believe the center will enhance people’s living standards
as a whole.
Vocabulary:
124. establishment [n]: the action of establishing something or being established: s ự

thiết lập, sự dựng nên
Eg: The speaker announced t he est abl ishm ent of a new col l ege.
125. initiate [v]: to make something begin: đề xuất, khởi xướng

Eg: The government has initiated a program of economic reform.

126. (be) reaching completion [expression]: nearing the act or process of finishing something:
sắp hoàn thành
Eg: The changes made to the education system are reaching completion..
127. consumer spending [expression]: the spending of the consumer: chi tiêu của người tiêu
dùng
Eg: Consumer spending this year has increased exponentially.
128. stimulate [v]: to make something develop or become more active; to encourage
something: kích thích, khuyến khích
Eg: The article can be used to stimulate discussion among students.
129. innumerable [adj]: too many to be counted; very many: rất nhiều, không đếm xuể
Eg: Innumerable books have been written on the subject.
130. state-of-the-art [adj]: using the most modern or advanced techniques or methods;
as good as it can be at the present time: tân tiến nhất
Eg: The Physics Department of this university has state -of-the-art facilities.
131. lay the foundation for sth [expression]: set, start a principle, an idea or a fact that
something is based on and that it grows from: đặt nền tảng cho cái gì
Eg: Respect and friendship lay a solid foundation for marriage.
132. large-scale [adj]: involving many people or things, especially over a wide area: có quy
mô, kích cỡ lớn
Eg: This building is a large-scale development for our nation.
133. far-reaching [adj]: likely to have a lot of influence or many effects: có ảnh hưởng sâu
rộng
Eg: The advent of the Internet has brought about far-reaching changes.
134. long-term [adj]: that will last or have an effect over a long period of time: dài hạn
Eg: At the moment, long-term investment in education would favour the overall development of this
nation.
135. progressive [adj]: happening or developing steadily: đang phát triển
Eg: There is a progressive reduction in the size of the workforce.

187. Describe a quiet place.
Where it is
How often you visit there
What you do there
And explain the reason why you like or dislike the place.
To me, quiet places mean libraries. But I’m not going to describe the library at my university as I still
haven’t visited it yet. The one I’m going to describe is the library at my high school in Haiduong City.
My school is very large and it consists of four big blocks named A, B, C, and D. The library occupies a
small space on the highest floor in block D, and it’s perhaps just about three or nearly four times as large
as a normal classroom. There’s a room used to store books and another for students to read books and
self-study.
I spent most of my time in the library when I was in grade 10. The next two years were filled completely
with competitions and extracurricular activities so I couldn’t go to the library as often as before. I had
my own favorite spot in the self-study section; it was the cubicle on the outermost row that is near the
window, and whenever I visited the library to study or to read some borrowed books, I would choose
that spot without hesitation. I even wrote some words or symbols that I liked on the table; don’t know
whether they’re still there now though.
I specifically chose this library to describe because it’s really quiet, compared with some other libraries
in Haiduong City that I’ve been to. It was really suitable for studying, and some even went there to sleep!
I had a great time self-studying in this library back then, I seriously would re-visit it if I ever had a
chance.
Vocabulary:
 Cubicle [noun] (buồng làm việc kín nhỏ, cách các buồng khác bằng vách ngăn) a partially
enclosed workspace in an office which is separated from neighboring workspaces by partitions
e.g. He was in a cubicle of his own, and he could see at least a hundred more cubicles in this room alone.
 Outermost [adjective] (ngoài cùng, cách xa trung tâm nhất) at the greatest distance from the
center

e.g. The city centre is Zone 1 and the outermost suburbs are Zone 6.
 Occupy [verb] (chiếm) fill or take up (a space or time)
e.g. Every parking space was occupied here; you would have to park somewhere else.
 Without hesitation [phrase] -If you say that someone does something without hesitation , you
are emphasizing that they do it immediately and willingly.
e.g. The great majority of strikers would return to work without hesitation if they were offered a better
deal.
 Specifically [adverb] (đặc biệt) for a particular purpose
e.g. These picture books were created specifically for children.
Part 3
What are the places that are free of noise?
With such a frantic pace of life in this day and age, noises are omnipresent. However, there are still
places that are free of noise. They are locations related to religion, like churches, pagodas or shrines,
where noise is strictly prohibited. People who are in need of absolute silence and intense concentration
can also go to the library or bookstore. Additionally, there are certain restrictions on noise in hospitals
and clinics. Besides, rural areas are places to escape from the noise of traffic and crowds, which gives
residents a sense of tranquility.
What are the causes of noises?
Factors of noise are manifold, many of which originate from humans and objects. Numerous places are
associated with noise, such as busy streets and construction sites. Places of entertainment say, cafes,
bars, and amusement parks, also use noise to attract people. The more people want to interact and
communicate, the more substantial the amount of noise generated. Therefore, some people regard noise
as an effective way to alleviate our stresses and strains in life.

What are the impacts of noise on people?
Whether caused unintentionally or deliberately, excessive levels of noise invariably exert adverse
influences on those exposed to it. Firstly, those affected by noise caused by others may be unable to
relax and take a proper rest. Secondly, noise could greatly diminish our concentration and memory. Last
but not least, long-term noise is said to pose serious health hazards. For example, constant exposure to
high pitched noise can result in auditory problems, and in the worst scenario, hearing loss. As we all
know, hearing-impaired individuals are very likely to experience difficulty in life.
VOCABULARY:
frantic [adjective]: done quickly and with a lot of activity, but not well organized: cuồng loạn
Eg: The hot el m ade franti c preparati ons for t he unexpect ed arri val of t he P resi dent .
omnipresent [adjective]: everywhere: có mặt khắp mọi nơi
Eg: Mobile phones are omnipresent in this day and age.
(to) prohibit [verb]: to stop sb/sth from doing sth: to stop sth from being done or used by law : nghiêm
cấm
Eg: The policy prohibits students from smoking in schools.
intense [adjective]: very great, very strong : mãnh liệt, hết mức
Eg: The President is under intense pressure to resign.
Restriction [noun]: a rule or law that limits what you can do : giới hạn
Eg: The government has agreed to ease restrictions on press freedom.
tranquility [noun]: the state of being quiet and peaceful: sự yên bình
Eg: I dream of the tranquility of lying on a deserted beach.

manifold [adjective]: many, of many different types: rất nhiều, đa dạng
Eg: The possibilities of genetic engineering are manifold.
(to) originate [verb]: start from : xuất phát từ:
Eg: The disease is thought to have originated in the tropics.
characteristic [adjective]: of sth: very typical of sth: đặc trưng của
Eg: The characteristic street markets of Vietnam are popular with tourists .
associate [verb]: if one thing is associated with another, they are connected because they happen
together (liên hệ, có liên quan tới)
Eg: Heart disease is associated with the dangers of smoking.
substantial [adjective]: large in amount, value or importance: đáng kể
Eg: There have been substantial changes since his arrival.
(to) generate [verb]: to produce or create sth: sản sinh ra, tạo ra
Eg: The proposal has generat ed a lot of i nt erest .
effective [adjective]: producing successful results: hiệu quả
Eg: Aspirin is a simple but highly effective treatment.
(to) alleviate [verb]: to make sth less severe: làm dịu đi
Eg: A number of measures were taken to alleviate the problem of drought.
stresses and strains [expression]: difficulties and problems : sự căng thẳng
Eg: You will learn to cope with the stresses and strains of public life.
deliberately [adverb]: done in a way that was planned : một cách cố ý

Eg: She has been deliberately ignoring him all day.
excessive [adjective]: greater than what seems reasonable or appropriate: quá độ
Eg: They complained about the excessive noise coming from the flat above.
invariably [adverb]: always (in a negative way): luôn luôn
Eg: It invariably rains these days, which is really frustrating.
adverse [adjective]: negative or unpleasant: tiêu cự
Eg: Lack of money will have an adverse effect on our research program.
expose [verb]: to put sb/sth in a situation where they are not protected from something harmful or
unpleasant
Eg: Small babies should not be exposed to strong sunlight – it will harm them.
(to) diminish [verb]: make sth weaker, smaller: làm giảm
Eg: I don’t want to diminish the importance of their contribution.
hazard [noun]: a thing that can be dangerous or cause damage : sự nguy hiểm
Eg: Everybody is aware of the hazards of smoking.
Exposure [noun]: the state of being in a place or situation where there is no protection from sth
unpleasant or harmful: sự hứng chịu
Eg: Exposure to too much sunlight is not good for our health.
hearing-impaired [adjective]: having problems or implications of hearing : thính giác bị suy giảm
Eg: Hearing-impaired people can have special audio devices on their TVs and computers

188. Describe a place you hate to visit
(Tham khảo bài: Describe a noisy place that annoys you)
You should say:
What place it is
When it is
Why it is noisy
And explain whether you think it will be quieter and why
(What place it is)
Today I’m going to describe a noisy place that annoys me. It is Tokyo- Japan's capital, which is a dream
destination for avid travelers. It is universally known that megacities like New York, Beijing, and Tokyo
are known for being exceptionally noisy and crowded, yet they still attract a great number of tourists.
(When it is)
Last month, my family decided to choose Tokyo to as our holiday destination. Tokyo is Japan's capital
and the world's most populous metropolis. Today, Tokyo has become one of the world’s most active
major cities, home to cutting-edge technology, information, culture, and fashion, as well as a high level
of public safety.
(Why it is noisy)
The entire city is filled with loudspeakers, construction activities, commercial activities, and factories.
Therefore, it was too noisy sometimes for me, a person who prefers a sense of tranquility. The most

crowded place must be Shibuya crossing, the biggest and busiest crossing in Tokyo, where sometimes
1000 or more people cross the intersection at once. My family also experienced Tokyo’s crowded trains
during rush hour once, and the commotion was so bothersome.
(And explain whether you think it will be quieter and why)
Well, actually, Japan in my eyes is quite a peaceful country, so the chaos in Tokyo made me feel totally
overwhelmed. Given a chance, I would like to discover some quieter places in Tokyo to truly unwind
in one of the busiest places in the world. I’m sure there are a lot of spots like that hidden in this modern,
cosmopolitan megacity.
Vocabulary from Holiday:
 holiday destination
Meaning: where you go for a holiday
Example: Many tourists have chosen Da Nang city as their holiday destination since 2015.
Other vocabularies:
1. avid [adj]: extremely eager or interested: ham mê

Eg: Steve is an avid runner and cross-country skier.
2. exceptionally [adv]: far beyond what is usual in magnitude or degree: một cách khác
thường
Eg: The weather was exceptionally mild for the time of the year
3. cutting-edge [adj]: very modern and with all the newest features: tiên tiến
Eg: This is an ambitious book, which aims to pull together cutting-edge research in formal
semantics, lexical aspect, and event structure.
4. populous [adj]: a populous country, area, or place has a lot of people living in it: đông
dân
Eg: Chi na is t he worl d's m ost populous count r y.

5. tranquility [n]: the quality or state of being tranquil; calm.: sự yên bình
Eg: The tranquility of the forest helps me relax.
6. intersection [n]: a point or line common to lines or surfaces that intersect: ngã tư
Eg: If you remember back to an economics class you might have taken, much time was spent on the
intersection of lines in those graphs.
7. commotion [n]: a state of confused and noisy disturbance: sự hỗn độn
Eg: There was a lot of commotion at the bar last night.
Eg: We are overwhelmed with data from every quarter, and our capacity to filter fact from
fraud is limited.
9. unwind [v]: to relax after a period of work or anxiety: thư giãn
Eg: I’m just going to watch some TV and unwind.
10. megacity [n]: a megacity is a very large city, typically with a population in excess of 10
million people: siêu đô thị
Eg: C urrent l y, t here are 37 m egaci ti es in t he world.
189. Describe something you bought recently that made you happy.
(Tham khảo bài: Describe an important technological product you bought)
You should say:
- What it is
- How you use it and why you bought it
- And explain why you think it is important
(What it is)

I have several pieces of modern technology and electronic gadgets that I often use and among them, I
would like to talk about the electronic dictionary I bought years ago in a bookstore. On the surface, it
was really eye-catching. It was a white colored digital dictionary, portable, compact and light, not
more than 4 by 6 inches in dimension, but was one of the latest models.
(How you use it and why you bought it)
This versatile dictionary also served as an Ipod, which allowed me to listen to music and play games.
Above all, as an avid English learner, I needed an electronic dictionary in my study. In terms of its main
functions, it really came in handy for me. I could easily carry it in my pocket and I used it quite often
to learn new words and that helped enhance my language skills a great deal. Since then, it has been
serving me faithfully, allowing me not only to do a quick search for words and expressions, but also to
create specialized personal glossaries.
(And explain why you think it is important)
Thanks to this dictionary, learning English has gradually become my pastime, rather than a
compulsory, tedious subject in school. Until now, I still count myself fortunate to have bought this at
such an affordable price at that time. This electronic dictionary has changed the way I learn English and
helped me to excel at this language.
Vocabulary:
1. gadget [n]: a small device or machine with a particular purpose: đồ vật

Eg: Have you seen this handy little gadget - it's for separating egg yolks from whites.
2. eye-catching [adj]: (of a thing) immediately noticeable because it is particularly interesting,
bright or attractive: bắt mắt
Eg: There were beautiful clothes in eye-catching colours in the shop.
3. portable [adj]: light and small enough to be easily carried or moved: mang theo được
Eg: The laptop's ultra-compact design makes it extremely portable and practical.
4. versatile [adj]: having many different uses: linh hoạt, nhiều công dụng
Eg: Eggs are easy to cook and are an extremely versatile food.

5. come in handy [expression]: to be useful: tiện ích
Eg: The extra money came in very handy in this situation.
6. faithfully [v]: in a loyal way or a way that can be trusted: một cách trung thành
Eg: He served the family faithfully for 40 years.
7. glossary [n]: an alphabetical list, with meanings, of the words or phrases in a text that are
difficult to understand: bảng chú giải
Eg: The end matter includes a very useful discography and bibliography, as well as a glossary and
chronology.
8. gradually [adv]: slowly, over a long period of time: dần dần
Eg: Women have gradually become more involved in the decision-making process.
9. tedious [adj]: boring: nhàm chán
Eg: The problem is I find most forms of exercise so tedious.
10. (to) excel at [v]: to be very good at doing something: xuất xắc, vượt trội
Eg: As a child he excelled at music and art.
PART 3: EQUIPMENT
1. What do you think is the most important equipment in the workplace?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, I think computers are of utmost importance to offices
nowadays. (Explain your reason or reasons) The widespread use of computers has revolutionized
many aspects of labor and business. (Give an example (often a personal example)) Computers can
improve communication both within the workplace and when dealing with customers. The use of email,
Internet, message boards and social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn have been instrumental
in keeping workers in touch both within and between different companies. Another revolutionary aspect
of computers is the enormous quantity of information they are capable of storing.
2. Which technological product do you think is most useful at home?
(Give a direct answer to the question) I assume it is the washing machine for certain reasons. (Explain
your reason or reasons) A washing machine is a huge time saver over hand washing. (Give an
example (often a personal example)) You do not have to sit and monitor the washing process. Above
all, a washing machine eliminates the effort needed to wash clothes. You start the cycle and throw your

clothes and detergent in. With hand washing, you must use physical effort to get the clothes clean and
scrub vigorously to remove stains.
3. Do you think there will be no teachers to teach in school in the future?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, this prospect seems unimaginable to me. (Explain your
reason or reasons) On the one hand, the presence of a teacher is essential for students because the
human contact influences them in positive ways. (Give an example (often a personal example))
Teachers are constantly required in the learning process because they acknowledge some students’
deficiencies and help them to solve their problems by offering explanation, giving extra exercises or
even suggesting a private tutor.
4. Do you think some technological products make you lazier? Why?
(Give a direct answer to the question) Apparently, they do, to a certain extent. (Explain your reason
or reasons) Technology breeds the ability to employ labor saving devices. Once upon a time, visiting
a friend or family member meant traveling; nowadays we are satisfied with a few minutes on FaceTime
or Skype. We friend and defriend people from social networks without actually meeting them. In this
day and age, hardly anyone walks or rides a bike, people want to drive everywhere, even for a short
distance. I don’t know how many people would survive if technology suddenly disappeared.
Vocabulary:
136. revolutionize [v]: to completely change something so that it is much better: cách mạng
hóa
Eg: Newton's discoveries revolutionized physics.
137. instrumental in [adj]: if someone or something is instrumental in a process, plan, or

system, that person or thing is one of the most important influences in causing it to happen: góp
phần vào
Eg: She was instrumental in bringing about the prison reform act.
138. enormous [adj]: extremely large: to lớn
Eg: He earns an enormous salary.
139. eliminate [v]: to remove or take away someone or something: loại bỏ

Eg: We eliminated the possibility that it could have been an accident.
140. detergent [n]: a chemical substance in the form of a powder or a liquid for removing
dirt from clothes, dishes, etc.: chất tẩy rửa
Eg: Significantly more male moths were caught in traps treated with water containing powdered
detergent than liquid detergent, light gear oil or insecticide.
141. vigorously [adv]: in a way that is very forceful or energetic: một cách mạnh mẽ
Eg: Environmentalists and local government officials have vigorously opposed the project.
142. prospect [n]: the possibility that something good might happen in the future: viễn cảnh
Eg: There seems little prospect of an end to the dispute.
143. deficiencies [n]: a state of not having, or not having enough, of something that is needed:
sự thiếu sót
Eg: Deficiencies in the education system have been much in the news.
144. breed [v]: to cause something to happen, usually something bad: sinh ra
Eg: Favouritism breeds resentment.
145. defriend [v]: to remove someone from your list of friends on a social networking
website: hủy kết bạn
Eg: How do I check who has defriended me on Facebook?
190. Describe an art exhibition that you visited.
You should say:
When you saw this exhibition
What was on display
And explain your impression of the exhibition

(When you saw this exhibition)
Last summer, I visited my friend in Sai Gon and had the chance to visit Ho Chi Minh City Museum of
Fine Arts which is one of the largest museums in Ho Chi Minh city. The museum has witnessed the ups
and downs of history as well as the rise of Ho Chi Minh City after unification in 1975.
When I arrived, the Art Gallery was packed with people. Groups and groups of people were entering the
exhibition halls, their faces were radiant with joy.
(What was on display)
Housed in a grand colonial-era mansion, Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum holds an impressive
collection of art from Vietnam and beyond. On the walls, different arrangements of modern paintings as
well as contemporary art were hung: paintings (on silk and in oils), sculpture, ceramics and lacquerware;
all features were on display. You can view there contemporary works by some of Vietnam’s most
important artists, as well as historical pieces, some dating from as far back as the fourth century. Cham
art from the seventh to the 14th centuries is also on display. The yellow and white mansion is a work of
art in itself; built in the early 1930s, its captivating details include stained-glass windows, marble floors
and lofty ceilings.
(And explain your impression of the exhibition)
Being rather tired after hours of walking, I sat down on a bench and talked to others about the exhibition.
The exhibition offered me precious minutes of relaxation and enriched my imagination. Before leaving

the exhibition halls, I bought postcards of my favorite paintings to keep as souvenirs or to send to friends
abroad.
Part 3
Do people have different concepts of art? Why?
Yes. Everyone has their own concepts of art because culture influences artistic work. Everything
surrounding us at any point in time influences our life and decisions. Each nation has different culture,
so their art works are modified according to their culture.
Why are some artworks expensive?
Well, materials for painting are expensive in and of themselves. Furthermore, paintings take a lot of time
and consideration to make. When you buy a good painting, you’re not just buying a rectangle covered
in pretty colors, you’re paying for an artist with years of experience to spend hours if not days or weeks
of their time on that painting. It’s a bit like buying furniture, but the function is aesthetic.
What can art bring to life?
I think art gives meaning to our lives and helps us understand our world. It is an essential part of our
culture because it helps us to have a deeper understanding of our emotions and increases our self-
awareness.

191. Describe a skill that you think you can teach other people.
You should say:
What it is
Who you can teach?
How you can teach others
And explain how you feel about teaching others
(What it is)
Well, first of all, I have learned many skills that I can share or teach to others. And I would like to talk
about the one which took me a long time to master. It’s playing the piano.
(Who you can teach)
During my school days, I attended piano classes from a professional trainer at my school. I remembered
the sessions were full of laughter because there were other people who also tried to play the piano with
me. I had been learning the piano for more than 10 years, and didn’t skip for a long time. I believe I
have all the skills required to teach Piano either individually or in a group now.
(How you can teach others)
Actually, my brothers intended to send their kids to my home to learn the piano sometimes. Well, I am
not hesitant to teach them. However, learning piano is quite challenging as you might find the students
difficult to teach and think of giving up sometimes. But if that happens to my nieces, I’ll try to inspire
them so that they can get rid of negative thoughts and get back on track soon.
And explain how you feel

Overall, from my point of view, playing piano is not too difficult if you are passionate about it. It only
takes people around 1 year to learn to play confidently and smoothly for the services.
Part 3
Should teachers be funny when they teach?
I think it depends on each teaching style. Educators should only use humor with which they are
comfortable. A teacher does not have to be funny to be effective.
What qualities should teachers have?
Well, I think a teacher should have the ability to speak clearly and audibly, and can modulate voice
where necessary for effect. And they also should have the ability to explain difficult materials succinctly.
Avoid the over-use of technical jargon — if used, they must explain the meanings and relevance.
Which age group is the best at learning new things?
Learning is a life-long process. There is no specific age to learning something new. However, it is said
that the age 5 to early twenties are the best for academic learning as at those ages, concentration levels
are better.

192. Describe a kind of weather you like.
You should say:
What kind of weather it is
I love the rain, personally. Especially unpredicted rain, because I love watching other people flip out
over their plans ruined. It's amusing.
When this weather usually occurs
I live in the northern part of Vietnam, so it rains heavily between June to September. We call it the rainy
season, and you get to experience all types of rains, from drizzle, occasional rains, surprise rain to heavy
rain which don’t stop even after two days.
What you usually do during this weather
I like rainy days because I like to be outside and feel the rain on my skin. I like the smell of the rain, I
like the effect it has on the garden, and I love watching the rain bounce off my window. It makes my
imagination run wild, and it just looks so nice. And I like the cold, or cooler weather. It’s lovely and
relaxing.

And explain your feeling
In conclusion, it varies. I adapt to any weather. Anything can be utilized to one's advantage, even nature.
Unless you were unlucky enough to be caught in the eye of the storm or get struck by a lightning. But
that's how our kind gets all the superpowers, so it's not all bad.
Part 3:
What kinds of clothes do people wear in summer?
In summer people generally want to wear something which is comfortable and light. Cotton, I think,
would be the first choice for summer wear for all sex and age groups as it is a naturally absorbent in
nature and allows air to pass through the wearer 's body.
What types of weather are suitable for outdoor activities?
I think all types of weather are good for outdoor activities. Most people like sunny days, but snow is also
great if you are a ski or snowmobile enthusiast, right? Hot weather is great if you like water sports or
swimming. Cold weather is great if you like ice fishing or ice skating. The only weather that I don’t
recommend for outdoor activities is during lightning or severe storms or hurricanes.
What’s the most typical weather in your country?

Vietnam's climate has a monsoon-influenced tropical climate. In the north, the climate is monsoonal
with four distinct seasons while in the south, the climate is tropical monsoon with two seasons (rainy
and dry).
193. Describe a polite person you know.
You should say:
Who he/she is
In fact, I have met a number of polite persons in my life, and picking just one of them as the politest
person is not going to be an easy thing. Anyway, the person, I want to talk about, is one of my neighbors.
His name is Henry.
How you knew him/her
I first met him after he moved to our neighborhood around 7 years ago. One day my mother had me go
to his home to deliver some homemade cookies and food for a major festival. The way he greeted and
thanked me was simply amazing. I was around 17-18 years old but he treated me as if I was a more
mature and experienced person.
What he/she is like

Well, he is a gentleman and a sober person. Almost everyone in our neighborhood likes him for his polite
manner. He is a great problem solver and has a natural gift for Mathematics. He often helps children
around our area in studying Math.
And explain why you think he/she is polite
We all have our own perceptions about polite persons and in my opinion, he is a perfect example of how
people can be polite whilst being very brave, intelligent and righteous.
Part 3
What's the standard of being polite?
Well, I think politeness requires good intentions and cultural awareness. For example, opening the door
for others, smiling, nodding, waving, offering to help carry something, maintaining personal space,
keeping compliments short, sincere and non-sexual are what is considered to be politeness.
What behavior will be regarded as impolite?

Impolite behavior means you have been rude to someone by violating accepted standards of courteous
behavior within a culture like: not responding to a personal greeting, chewing your food with your mouth
open, or pushing in front of someone in line.
194. Describe a time when you ate something for the first time
You should say:
What you ate
When you ate it
Where you were
What you ate
Well, I was about 16 when I was first asked to try sushi with raw-fish for the first time.
When you ate it
It happened when one night, my brother, who was 5 years older than me, came into the house all excited.
All he did was rave about sushi - the new food he had with one of his buddies. Just like everyone else
out there who hasn't tried sushi, I immediately dismissed the thought of even trying to think it was good.
Where you were

My brother insisted I try it. I agreed, after taking a lot of convincing. At the restaurant, I was greeted by
the smell of raw fish and seaweed. Not a common or pleasant smell to the average person. I wanted to
leave based on the smell alone. We sat down and my brother ordered. He suggested I order the salmon
roll and tuna roll, something easy. Well, the meal came out, and it looked pretty impressive in terms of
presentation. The hard part was getting it in my mouth. My brother showed me the ropes of the soy
sauce, chopsticks, and other items. When I did get the courage to eat it, I really wasn't sure what to think.
The feel of it in my mouth was definitely an odd feeling, but it wasn't disgusting or smelly. Actually, it
was kind of good after I tried some more. The funny part was when I asked my brother what that green
stuff was on the sushi plate. He told me it was a minty pasted and was to be eaten kind of like a dessert
after you were done eating the sushi. Well, he lied. It was wasabi - I ate a large amount of it and then
my eyes were watering and my nostrils were flaring for a half an hour. My brother always tricked me
like that.
Needless to say, I enjoyed the night. Soon after that night, I had cravings for sushi and its grown since
then. I just can't stop eating it. I'm hooked, and I thank my brother for that even though he did play that
wasabi trick on me.
Part 3:
What kinds of foreign food are popular in your country?

Japanese food, Chinese food and Korean food are very popular in Vietnamese cities. The most famous
ones are ramen, sushi, tempura, tempanyaki, katsu, teryaki, bento set foods, etc.
Should teachers and parents teach children how to cook?
Yes. In my opinion, teaching a child how to cook helps them understand how much time and effort it
takes for a parent to make a healthy, tasty meal for the family.
Why do people like their local food?
Local food is always fresher, healthier and tastes better, because it spends less time in transit from farm
to plate, and therefore, loses fewer nutrients and incurs less spoilage. Therefore, a lot of people prefer
local food to the foreign one.
195. Describe a time when you got lost in a town or city
You should say:
When and where you got lost
and explain why you got lost

(When and where you got lost)
I am going to talk about an incident that happened to me, which I never forget. On a trip organized to
Bach Ma national park for all students in my high school three years ago, with a view to raising students’
awareness of the importance of protecting the environment, I got lost and could hardly find my bearings
to get back to the class.
(and explain why you got lost)
In retrospect, climbing the mountain was great fun, although I was a little scared at first, apprehensive
to be exact. I still remember the route to reach the mountain peak was in twists and turns, so students
in my class almost felt the terminal point was approaching but it was endless. I got a little exhausted
and had to lean against a tree. My friends encouraged me to hold on, take a deep breath and only think
about the mountain peak to continue to climb. We were up at the furthest point as the sun was starting
to set. Too enthralled by the spectacular natural scenery, I decided to go a bit further from our original
reaching point to take pictures and forgot the time until it began to turn dark. Suddenly, I realized that I
was alone and I could not see any of my classmates. Actually, I was truly scared at that very moment.
Luckily, before I totally lost my bearings, I tried my uttermost to find the trail again by using the
digital map on my mobile device to position, and managed to make it back after about two and a half
hours, by which time it was full night. I’m glad that I did overcome my fears then to find the way back.
Vocabulary
Part 3:

Do people get lost more than in the past?
I don’t think so. Nowadays, we have a lot of digital GPS tools that help people to navigate so the chances
of getting lost are lower than in the past.
What should we do if one of our family members gets lost?
If the people we love are missing, the first thing we should do is to contact the police immediately. If
you suspect something is wrong for instance, if your father does not arrive home at his regular time, say
at around 8 p.m. and you cannot reach him, contact the authorities.
196. Describe a strange person you've met.
You should say:
Who this person is
When did you meet him/her
Why is he/she strange
Who this person is
Well, today I would like to talk about one person who was an old friend of mine, and who I did recognize
to be the strangest person that I ever known.

When did you meet him/her
So when I was in secondary school, I was a distant friend to this girl named Anna. She was pretty nice
and we hung out a bit, but she was closer with my other friends. She was very smart and gorgeous. I
remembered she read a lot of books and was always top in History and Literature.
Anyway, that’s how I was impressed about Anna back then. I switched school districts after secondary
school ended and one of my friends continued to be friends with her. I would hear the occasional story
of them having fun.
Why is he/she strange
Twelfth grade rolled around, though, and I was hanging out with my friend. She showed me a picture
on Instagram of a bunch of dark candles, cloths, and flower petals. I asked her what it was and she just
said, “It’s Anna’s.” I asked her again and she answered with, “It’s an altar. She’s a pagan witch.”
And I was shocked.
And that is the strangest person I met at high school. I guess I can say I know a pagan witch now.

197. Describe a piece of international news you have just recently heard.
You should say:
What the news was about
When and where you heard it
What you were doing when you heard the news
And explain how you felt about this piece of news
What the news was about
Well, I always keep myself updated with current ongoings and today I would like to talk about
international news flowing around the globe these days: it is about the vaccine for COVID-19.
When and where you heard it
I remember that day, i was lying on the couch watching television and heard the best International news.
The news was about some of the COVID vaccines being approved for common use. You know, last
year, the coronavirus pandemic took away so many things we love. Therefore, it was a big relief as once
everyone gets vaccinated, we can resume a normal life, go to work, meet our friends and families and
go traveling.

And explain how you felt about this piece of news
This news affects not only me but everyone around the world. I hope that the vaccines will soon be
approved so that normality will return to our lives.
198. Describe the kind of bag you want to own
You should say:
What kind of bag it is
Where you want to buy it,
And explain why you want to buy this kind of bag
What kind of bag is it?
Well bags are a must-have item for me. I am a student so I have a lot of heavy stuff needing carrying
such as books, water bottles, and laptops. Therefore, I mostly use a backpack on a daily basis. I’ve
recently thought of buying a new backpack because the one I’m using has been worn out.
Where you want to buy it?

A few days ago, I saw a very stylish backpack from the Nike brand on their website and was immediately
impressed by its looks as well as its good quality. It is a red backpack with two main inner compartments,
two small pockets on the outside, and a side pocket for carrying my water bottle. The backpack is also
made from waterproof material so that it can save my belongings from getting wet. I think next week
when I have free time, I will go check it out at the Nike store nearby.
And explain why you want to buy this kind of bag
That’s the kind of bag that I would like to have at the moment. I know it depends on each person's
preferences but I really love using backpacks as it allows me to be comfortable and hands-free.
Part 3
Why do you think women like to buy bags?
Women have an obsession with buying bags because they use handbags every day. When we go to
parties, movies, school, university, work, grocery shopping, everywhere! They use their handbags very
frequently. Gradually, hand bags have become a unique outward statement of a woman's status.
Why are some people willing to buy expensive bags?

I think, for some consumers, a luxury good can go a long way in increasing self-esteem or providing a
sense of belonging. They want to reward themselves for their hard work by treating themselves to
something they typically could not afford. That’s why some people buy luxury goods.


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200 BÀI MẪU IELTS SPEAKING CHO NĂM 2021

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2. Describe an educational TV program that you have seen

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 contaminate: [verb] make a place or thing dirty, by adding a substance that is

 aquatic: [adjective] living in water

 life-threatening: [adjective] likely to kill someone.

 awareness: [noun] knowing that something exists and is important.

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savoury: [adjective] having a delicious taste, usually containing salt.

dish: [noun] food prepared in a particular way as part of a meal.

flavour: [verb] add to food to give it a special taste.

aromatic: [adjective] having a pleasant smell or aroma.

baguettes: [noun] white bread in the shape of long sticks.

mild: [adjective] not strong or severe.

novel: [adjective] new, and different from anything known before.

sophisticated: [adjective] typical of rich or socially important people.

juicy: [adjective] having a lot of juice, so that it is good to eat.

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out of this world: [expression] wonderful and exciting.

full: [adjective] having had enough to eat.

6. Describe your favourite season or time of the year.

what season (or time of the year) it is

what the weather is like at this time

what people usually do at this time

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 distinct: [adjective] clearly different or of a different type.

 spells: [noun] short periods of time.

 light: [adjective] not great in amount.

 showers: [noun] short periods of rain.

 breezes: [noun] winds that are not strong.

 hang out: [phrasal verb] spend a lot of time in a place.

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 boiling: [adjective] extremely hot.

 torturing: [verb] causing severe discomfort or unhappiness.

 freezing: [adjective] extremely cold.

 energize: [verb] give someone more energy or strength.

7. Describe an occasion when you got up very early.

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 sleepy: [adjective] feeling tired and wanting to go to sleep.

 chatting: [verb] talking together in a friendly way.

 fresh air: [noun] pleasantly clean and cool.

 banished: [verb] made someone or something go away.

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 without too much trouble: [expression] with no great difficulty.

8. Describe one of your best (= one of your close, or good) friends.

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 amiable: [adjective] pleasant and easy to like

 throw parties: [expression] give parties.