IELTS DUONG PHUONG [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

TÙ VU'NG VA' cÅU TRÚc GOI ÝBO DE FORECAST

SPEAKING QUÝ 2-2023

ÐÈ9
PART 1
TEACHERS

1. What do you think of a "good teacher"?

In my opinion, first and foremost, teachers must be knowledgeable about the subject
matter that they are teaching. Besides, they should be capable of making their lessons
comprehensible to the students. What matters most to me is the passion for the
profession because teaching has never been a piece of cake. Being patient, mastering
excellent interpersonal skills and having a good sense of humour are also favourable.

knowledgeable (adj) na:.11.d3a.bal/: am hieu capable (adj) /

'kel.pa.bal/: có näng Ivc, có khå näng comprehensible (adj) /
có the hieu, có thé lïnh hQi passion (n) /'pæJ.an/: sv
say mê, niem say mê a piece of cake: dieu gì dó dé thvc hiên
interpersonal skill (n) / ,m.tò'pE.san.al/: các kÿ näng Cá nhân a
good sense of humour có khieu hài htróc favourable (adj) /
'fel.v&.a.bal/: có ích, có loi

2. Do you want to be a teacher in the future?

When I was small, I used to enjoy role- play activities in which I pretended to be a
teacher with a small chalkboard in my friend's house. Fortunately, my dream has come
tnue and I'm a teacher of English now. The desire to share my knowledge with others
has always been there, motivating me to improve myself each day to become a good
educator.

role- play (v) T roul ,plel/: dóng vai pretend (v) /pritend/: dóng giå, giå vò
chalkboard (n) bång viét phán desire (n) /dl ' zan•/: niem
mong muon mãnh liêt, niem khao khát

1
 [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS] 3.
Do you think high school students should be encouraged to make comments on
their teachers?
Yes, I do. Empowering students to evaluate their teachers can contribute to an
improvement in educational quality. Receiving the learners' feedback offers instructors
an insight into their current strengths and weaknesses. As a result, they can make
appropriate adjustments to their methods, hone their pedagogical skills as well as
develop more innovative approaches in their profession.

empower (v) 11m 'pauar/: cho quyen, cho phép, làm cho có khå näng
improvement (n) 111m 'pru:v.mant/: sv cåi thiên, sv rnÚ mang, sv trau doi
offer (v)/ cung cáp, dem instructor (n) 11m strAk.tò/: ngtrìri d?
Y, ngtrìri huan luyên insight (n) / 'm.salt/: sv hieu thau bên trong
appropriate (adj) /a 'prou.pri.at/: thích hQ'P, thích dáng adjustment
(n) /a'd3Ast.mant/: sv dieu chính hone (v) /houn/: cåi thiên, mài giüa
pedagogical (adj) / ,ped.a 'ga:.d31kal/: str ph?m, giáo dvc innovative
(adj) / 'm.a.vel.gv/: cách tân, doi mói approach (n) /a 'proutJ/: htró'ng
di, dinh htró'ng, htró'ng tiép can

PART 2

Describe a place you want to visit with your friends or family in the future.

You should say:

Where you want to go in the future

What you think about it

What to do in that place

And explain why you want to go there.

Where you want to go in the future

A naturally beautiful place where I would like to visit is .

If I had the option to choose any place, I would probably pick.

2
 Well, if I get the opportunity to visit any place I want, there is no doubt that .
would be at the top of my list.
I am a keen traveler, and there is a plethora of places that I like to visit but the one
that I love most is....

at the top of the list: tru tiên hàng dau, Iva chqn hàng dau a plethora
of /'ple0.ò.a/: nhieu

What you think about it

It is a place that gives the impression of natural elegance and serenity
as/because

.is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

Natural beauty is another major selling point of..
is one of those must-see and off-the-beaten-track places that you have to visit.
I believe this would be a holiday of a lifetime for me.

impression (n) 111m 'pref.an/: sv an ttrçng natural elegance rel.a.gans/ and

serenity /sa'ri:n/: str thanh bình và vé dep tv nhiên stunning (adj)
stAn.11J/: tuyêt vòi, gây án ttrçng sâu sic landscape (n) /'lænd.skelp/:
phong cånh selling point: diem noi bêt must-see: không the bó
lö, phåi xem off-the-beaten-track: héo lánh, väng vé a holiday of a
lifetime: chuyen di dé dòi

3
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

What to do in that place

I intend to embark on the journey in ( + month/year) because that is an ideal time
for people to V-inf
I would love to explore these spectacular sights and participate in outdoor activities
like hiking, snorkeling, and surfing.
Tourists can experience homestay and immerse in . culture.
Then I would be able to + V
Last but not least, I would engage in

embark (v) 111m 'ba:rk/: bät dau, tién hành would love to explore
/lk'splo:r/: muon khám phá spectacular /spek'tæk.ja.lò/ sights: cånh dep
ng0?n mvc, kÿ vï participate (v) /pa:r'tls.a.pelt/ in: tham gia, tham dy
immerse (v) n-B:s/ in: dim chìm vào be able to do sth: có dú khå näng
làm gì engage in (v): tham dv, tham gia

Explain why you want to go there

I am definitely keen on this place due to many reasons. Firstly,...
Ever since I was a kid, I have always had a real yearning to visit this place.
The reason why I would select this place is because I would love to....... and I
might be able to .
I would love to learn more about its indigenous culture, history and experience its
vibrant traditions firsthand.
This place is certainly worth visiting mainly because ..... ..

be keen on: thích thú due to: bói vì, do ai a real yearning j3v:.n11J/: sv
khao khát, mong muon thtrc sv indigenous (adj) 11m 'dld3.a.nas/: bån xú,
bån dia vibrant (adj) /'val.brant/: sôi dQng, rvc rö firsthand (adv) /
trvc tiép worth visiting: dáng dén thäm

PART 3
1. What are the differences between travel today and in the past?
In the past, travel was mostly limited to the upper class and elite population. Thanks to
the advancement in technology and transportation, now it has become more accessible
and affordable for everybody. What's more, in the old days travel was timeconsuming
and limited to certain modes of transport but today we have various ones such as

4
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

planes, trains which can take us to faraway places quickly and easily. Finally, when it
comes to accommodation, there are more options for travelers to stay in like homestay,
villas , resorts or even in yachts, apart from staying in traditional hotels like in the past.

upper (adj) T Ap.ò/ class: tàng ló'P thtrçng ltru, giàu có elite (adj)
/i'li:t/ population: tàng ló'P tru tú, giàu có thanks to: nhìr vào advancement
(n) lad 'væns.mant/: sv tien lên, sv tien bQ accessible (adj) /ak'ses.a.bal/: có
thé tiép can dtrçc affordable (adj) /a'fo:r.da.bal/: có thé chi trå, hQ'P lý
what's more: hŒn nüa, ngoài ra time-consuming (adj) / 'tann.kan , su:.m11J/:
ton thìri gian, can nhieu thìri gian faraway (adj) / .fa:r.a'wel/: xa xäm apart
from: ngo?i trìr

2. Why did people like to explore new places to develop the tourism industry?
As people's living standard has been higher and traveling has been more affordable than
ever before, the demand for setting foot in new places is growing faster. It is a chance
to boost the economy and showcase the natural beauty of the local community. Besides,
in the age of exploration, more and more people would like to conquer new
destinations, so even the idea of making space a place of the future is indispensable!

living standard: múc song affordable (adj) /a To:r.da.bal/: có thé chi

trå, hQ'P lý set foot in: dät chân den, di den boost (v) /bu:st/ the economy
(n) /i'ka:.na.mi/: thúc dåy nèn kinh té showcase (n) /T0ö.kus/: phô truŒng,
trình diën, the hiên natural beauty: vé dep, nét dep tv nhiên local
community (n) /ka 'mju:.na.ti/: cong dong dia phtrŒng the age of exploration
(n) / , ek.spla 'rel.fan/: thìri cúa sv khám phá conquer (v) /'ka:q.kò/: chinh
phvc, ché ngv destination (n) / des.ta 'nel.Jan/: diem den a place of the
future: dia diem, diem den cúa ttrŒng lai indispensable
(adj): / ,m.dl'spen.sa.bal/: rat can thiét, không thé thiéu
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

7
3. Where do you think people want to go most during the holidays?
Mostly people travel to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, so there's a
tendency for tourists to choose off-the- beaten- track places like islands or mountains.
However, it depends on the characteristics and purposes of travelers. People who want
to have a break may choose tranquil resorts as their destination, while adventurous ones
would prefer to contemplate the magnificent beauty of caves or mountain ranges.

get away from: tránh xa hustle (n) /'hAs.al/ and bustle (n) / 'bAs.al/ of
modern life: sv dn ào và hól hå cúa cuQc song hiên tendency (n) /
'ten.dan.si/ for: xu htró'ng, khuynh htróng off-the-beaten-track: héo lánh,
väng vé have a break: có sv nghí ngŒi, thu giãn tranquil (adj) /'træq.kwal/:
yên bình contemplate (v) / 'ka:n.tam.plelt/: ngám, thtrúng ng0?n
magnificent (adj) /mæg mf.a.sant/: tráng IQ, nguy nga, IQng lay, vï
mountain maun.tan/ range /remd3/: dãy núi

6
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Ðè 10
PART 1
DAYS OFF

1. What do you do on your days off?

Normally, my job is back-breaking, so on my days off I often laze around at home,
unwind and recharge my batteries. There are so many things I want to catch up on, like
reading my favourite book, binge-watching some soap operas or just trying a new
recipe. Sometimes I meet up with my friends at a cafe and talk about everything, this
and that, all day long.

backbreaking (adj) /'bæk, bre1.k11J/: làm kiêt súc, làm mêt nhoài laze
(v) /leu/ around: thu giãn không làm gì cå unwind (v) An 'wamd/: nghí
ngŒi thu giãn recharge (v) / , ri: 'tJa:rd3/ my battery (n) /'bæt.ar.i/:
näng ltrçng catch up on: tranh thú, dành thêm thòi gian binge-
watch (v) /bmd3/: cày (phim) try a new recipe (v) Tres.a.pi/: thú' nau
món än rnó'i meet up with: gãp gö nói chuyên vói this and that: nhieu
thú

2. Do you usually spend your days off with your parents or with your friends? It
depends. I'm a teacher so I don't have to lecture every day. When it comes to a
weekday off, I tend to chill out with my friends by doing some outdoor activities
together. But at weekends, typically I spend quality time with my parents. We cook
and enjoy cozy meals, and have meaningful conversations with each other.

chill out (v) : thu giãn quality time

(n) : thòi gian chát ltrçng

3. Do you wish you had more time off?

Sure, I guess everyone does. I always need more time to engage in my favourite
activities or spend more quality time with my beloved. During a long strenuous
workweek, additional time off would enable me to strike a better work-life balance,

7
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

recuperate from stress and pursue my hobbies apart from focusing on my regular
responsibilities.

engage (v) 11m geld3/: tham gia strenuous (adj) T stren.ju.as/: cäng
thing, vát vå strike (v) /stralk/: dtrçc a better work-life balance
(n) /'bæl.ans/: sv cân bäng tot hon giüa công viêc và cuQc song
pursue (v) /pò'su:/ someone's hobbies: thvc hiên, theo duoi thích

PART 2

Describe a person who just moved into your community and brought positive influence.

You should say:

Who this person is

When and where this person moved to your community

How you knew this person

And explain how you feel about this person.

Who this person is

I'm going to share with you about one of my friends who V+ O.
The topic reminds me of ................, whom I consider really intriguing.
I'm going to talk about my friend/neighbor named Peter, one of the most
kindhearted/ devoted people I've ever met in my life.
I'm lucky to have many friends but the one I admire most is..................
kind-hearted (adj) / ,kamd 'ha:r.tld// : tót bvng devoted (adj) /dl 'vou.tld/:
tót bvng/tûn tâm

When and where this person moved to your community

If my memory serves me right, I met him/ her when he first came to HN in
................(+ time)
He/she is a/an (+job) . who recently moved into our community.......

8
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

time) ago if my memory serves /SEV/ me right: neu tôi nhó chính xác, tôi
nhó không nham
move into a community: chuyen vào mot cong dong dân ctr

How you knew this person

He/ She was the one who + V + O
I remember one time when I was (+Ving) . he/she + V (quá khú don)
I first met him/ her when S V O

And explain how you feel about this person

I find him/her to be an interesting person to be with because ..... ..... ..
I'm bowled over by his/ her efforts to . and I also adore him/ her for the
dedication he/she has in
He/She is a ( + adj)..............person who V O
One of the things I appreciated about him/her is that S V O be bowled
over by his/ her efforts: bi ng?C nhiên, an ttrçng bÚi sv nð luc cúa anh
áy/cô áy adore (v) /a'do:r/: ngtröng mQ, yêu quý dedication (n) /
ded.a 'kel.Jan/: sv cong hién appreciate (v) /a'pri:.fi.elt/: dánh giá
cao

9
IELTS DUONG PHUONG [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

PART 3
1. What kinds of people tend to live by themselves?
There are some common groups of people who live alone like young adults working far
away from their home, single people who have never been married, or divorced ones. In
modern times, there's a tendency for young people to value their privacy, selfreliance
and autonomy so they often choose an independent life and prioritize their own freedom
over the aspects of living with others.

a tendency (n) / 'ten.dan.si/ for: xu htróng, khuynh htró'ng cho value

(v) /'væl.ju:/ someone's privacy (n) /'pral.va.si/: dánh giá cao/coi trpng sv riêng tu
cúa ai dó self-reliance (n) / , self.rl 'lal.ans/ and autonomy (n) [a: 'ta:.na.mi/: sv
dQc lûp và sv tv giác/tv chú prioritize (v) /pral 'o:r.a.tmz/: tru tiên

10
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS] 2.
What skills do you think young people need to learn in order to live
independently?
There are many skills that young people need to master when they want to live alone.
First of all, they need planning skills to carry out concrete goals and plans of their own.
Secondly, self-controlling skill is needed for them to respond to not just their emotions
but stressful situations that occur on a daily basis. Financial management skill is also
important when it comes to dealing with the expenditure on daily activities. Finally,
they should be flexible to adapt to any changes in the environment quickly.

planning skills: kÿ näng lûp ké h0?Ch carry out: tien hành, thtrc hiên
concrete (adj) goals and plans: nhüng ké h0?Ch và mvc dích thé
self- controlling skill: kÿ näng tv Idem soát bån thân respond (v) /rl 'spa:nd/:
phån úng on a daily r del.li/ basis T bel.sls/: hàng ngày financial (adj)
/fa1'næn.Jal/ management (n) /'mæn.ad3.mant/ skill: kÿ näng quån lý tài chính
when it comes to: khi nói/nhäc den deal (v) /di:l/ with: xú' lý, giåi quyét
expenditure (n) /lk'spen.da.tfr/: khoån chi, sv chi tiêu flexible
(adj) /'flek.sa.bal/: linh h0?t

3. How can parents and teachers help young people to live independently?
Kids can be encouraged to be more independent and responsible in many ways. The
simplest thing that parents can do is to assign their children some household chores to
give them a sense of responsibility and life-skill practice such as cooking or taking care
of their young siblings. Parents can also let them have solo social outings to do things
on their own like going to a friend's birthday party or shopping for simple commodities,
which allows them to hone their social skills naturally. Teachers can help boost
children's independent thinking by giving lessons related to soft skills or encouraging
them to engage in voluntary activities.

assign (v) /a 'sam/: phân chia, giao nhiêm vv household chores (n)

/tþ:r/: viêc nhà a sense (n) /sens/ of responsibility (n) 'bll.a.ti/: ý

thúc trách nhiêm life-skill practice: thtrc hành kÿ näng song solo
(adj) /'sou.lou/ social outing: cuQc di choi cùng bè mot mình do things on
their own: làm mpi thú mot mình, tu làm hone (v) /haun/ : cåi thiên, mài
social skills: các kÿ näng xã hQi naturally (adv) /'nætJ.&.al.i/: mot cách
tv nhiên independent (adj) / ,m.dl 'pen.dant/ thinking: fir duy dQc lûp soft
skills: kÿ näng mem engage in: tham gia vào

11
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

ÐÈ 11
PART 1
FRIENDS

1. Do you have any good friends who live far away? (Why/ Why not?)
Yes, I have some friends who are living in different countries. With the development of
technology, we can still keep in touch on social networks or make video calls to share
ups and downs on a daily basis. They give me good advice whenever I need and despite
the distance, they're near and dear to my heart.

keep in touch /tAtJ/: giü liên ups and downs: thäng tram on a
daily basis / 'bel.sls/: hàng ngày near and dear: thân thiet, quan trpng

2. Are you still friends with any of your childhood friends? (Why/ Why not?)
Yes, I do, but only with some friends in primary school. We mostly stay in contact via
social networking sites like Facebook or Zalo. Two of them are my close friends now.
We've been together through thick and thin for years and often meet up in cafes to catch
up and reminisce every now and then.

stay in contact: giü liên thick and thin: thäng tràm (cuQc song) meet
up in cafes: gãp gö trò chuyên vói ai dó (Ú quán cà phê) every now
and then: thi thoång, không thtrìrng xuyên

3. Do you think you are a good friend? (Why?/ Why not?)

Perhaps it's my friends who can say whether or not I'm good to them, but as far as I'm
concerned, I have a harmonious relationship with my friends and we always treasure
our friendship. I always try to be considerate, caring and trustworthy, and I guess those
are qualities of a good friend.

harmonious (adj) /ha:r'mou.ni.as/: hòa thuûn, hài hòa treasure (v) /'tre3.ò/:
quý trpng considerate (adj) /kan 'sld.ò.at/: ân can, quan tâm tói nguò'i
khác caring (adj) / 'ker.11J/: chu dáo
trustworthy (adj) / dáng tin cay

PART 2

12
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]
Describe a long car journey you went on.

You should say:

Where you went

What you did in this place

Who you went there with

And explain why you went on that journey by car.

Where you went, who you went there with:

Well, traveling is my passion and going on a car journey is one of the best ways
to explore the landscapes on the road. I got the opportunity to have an excellent
trip by car with my friends to . last year.
passion (n) 'pæJ.an/: sv say mê, nièm dam mê opportunity (n) /
'tu:.na.ti/: cc hQi

One of my most eventful journeys was when my family / my group of

friends rented a car and hit the road to eventful (adj) /l'vent.fal/: có
nhieu sv kiên quan trpng hit the road: khói hành

Being a travel fanatic, I've had numerous long car journeys. However, one of
them is worth mentioning. That was a trip with my friends to . last year.
a travel fanatic (n) /fa 'næg.lk/: nguùi cuÒng/dam mê (du lich)
worth mentioning: dáng nói den, dè cap den

What you did in this place

We drove through the stunning landscapes of ..... ... . and reached...

stunning (adj) / 'stAn.11J/ landscapes (n) /'lænd.skelp/: phong cånh tuyêt

dep

We stopped on the way to explore.............., which was/is renowned for +N

be renowned for: noi tieng ve

13
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

We headed further to . where we took a break from driving and relaxed beside the
serene water of . river/ lake). It was a respite that allowed us to
appreciate the natural beauty of .....( + place)

take a break from driving: nghí ngoi sau khi lái xe serene (n) Isa 'ri:n/:
thanh bình respite (n) / 'res.pat/: sv nghí ngoi appreciate (v) /a
'pri:.fi.elt/: chiêm nguõ'ng, thuúng thúc, thuúng ng0?n

We spent some hours exploring and admiring

explore (v) 11k 'splo:r/: khám phá admire (v) lad man•/: thuúng ng0?n,
chiêm ngtröng

Being a nature enthusiast, I spent most of my time + Ving a nature enthusiast

(n) 11m 'Ou:.zi.æst/: nguò'i say mê, thích thiên nhiên

Explain why you went on that journey by car.

The reason for having such a journey was to experience the place on the way. The
beautiful moments I had during the trip will remain etched on my memory.
experience (v)/lk 'spn•.i.ans/: tìm ra dtrçc, tråi nghiêm place on the way:
dQC dtrò'ng remain (v) /rl 'mem/ etched (v) /etJ/ on sb's memory
(n) /'mem.ar.i/: van khäc sâu trong tâm trí, trí nhó

Because the distance from our city to is quite near, we decided to travel in our
personal car instead of public transport so that we could contemplate the breath-
taking scenery on the road. It was truly a sound decision.
contemplate (v) /'ka:n.tam.plelt/: ngám, thuúng ng0?n breath-taking (adj)
/ 'bre0 tel.k11J/: háp dãn, ng0?n mvc scenery (n) /'si:.nav.i/: phong
cånh, cånh vat a sound decision (n) /dl 's13.an/: quyét dinh hQ'P lý
PART 3

1. What benefits does public transport bring to the world?

Mass transit provides people with many benefits. Firstly, it helps reduce the numbers of
vehicles on the road and consequently curbs traffic congestion. Secondly, public
transport produces less gas emissions than private transport so it helps improve air

14
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

quality and protect the environment. For each individual, public transport ensures a safe
commute on a tight budget.

mass transit: phtrŒng tiên công cong traffic congestion

(n) /kan d3es.tJan/: sv tic nghën giao thông emission (n)
/i'm1J.an/: sv thåi ra, khí thåi air quality: chát ltrŒng không
khí ensure (v) 11m 'Jor/: dåm båo a safe commute(n) /ka
'mju:t/: chuyén di an toàn on a tight budget (n) /'bAd3.1t/: vói
kinh phí, ngân sách hep

2. Is it too late for people to get a driver's license at the age of 18?

I don't think so. In many countries the legal age for driving is 18 or older, so it's
understandable that 18 is the appropriate age to learn to drive as individuals are mature
enough physically and mentally. At an earlier age, they may lack responsibility or
problem-solving skills to cope with unexpected incidents occurring on the road during
driving time.

legal (adj) /'li:.gal/+ age: tuói pháp lý appropriate (adj) /a'prou.pri.at/:

phù hçp physically (adv) / 'fiz.l.kal.i/ and mentally (adv) / 'men.tal.i/: vè thé
chát và tinh than responsibility (n) /rl, spa:n.sa 'bll.a.ti/: trách nhiêm
problem-solving skills: kÿ näng giåi quyét ván dè cope (v) /koup/
with unexpected (adj) / ,An.1k 'spek.tld/ incident (n)
/'m.sl.dant/s: úng phó, giåi quyét nhüng sv có bát ngìr
driving time: thòi gian lái xe

15
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

3. What are the differences between bicycles and private cars?

Bicycles and private cars are different in many ways. The first remarkable feature is the
cost. I mean, a car may cost an arm and a leg, while the price of a bicycle is reasonable.
Another difference is that bicycles are environmentally friendly while cars emit large
amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Moreover, the bicycle does not require
any fuel or license to operate while it's a must to have these when you drive a car.

remarkable (adj) /rl 'ma:r.ka.bal/ feature (n) /'fi:.tfa•:

tính näng, dãc diem dáng chú ý cost an arm and a leg (v): vô
cùng dät giá, dät tien reasonable (adj) Tri:.zan.a.bal/: hQ'P
lý environmentally friendly: thân thiên vói môi truìrng
emit (v) /i'mlt/ large amounts of carbon dioxide (n) /dal
'a:k.sald/ into the atmosphere: ltrçng lón khí C02 dtrŒc thåi
ra ngoài.
require (v): yêu cau fuel (n) /'fju:.al/: chát dót,
nhiên liêu license (n) / 'lal.sans/: giáy phép (lái xe)
operate (v) /'a:.pa.relt/: h0?t dQng

ÐÈ 13

PART 1
DREAMS

1. Do you remember your dream when you wake up?

Actually, I more often than not fail to recall what I have dreamed about the previous
night. All I can recollect is just some fragments of a conversation or a dramatic race or
chase in the middle of nowhere. I don't know why, but a dream expert suggests that it is
not uncommon to forget most of what we dream about as human-beings.

more often than not: thtrìmg xuyên recall (v) /rl'ko:l/: nhó
recollect (v) / , reka 'lekt/: nhó l?i, hoi tuÚng fragment
(n) /'frægmant/: khúc, d0?n in the middle of nowhere: noi dong
không mông qu?nh, noi khí ho cò gáy dream expert eksp3:t/:
chuyên gia giac mŒ

2. Do you like hearing about others' dreams?

16
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Definitely yes, especially when it comes to the dreams of those I cherish, like my
husband's and children's. For me, the content of their dreams may reveal their fear,
concerns of daily life and even their unconscious wishes. Therefore, hearing about my
loved ones' dreams paves the way for my realizations about how they feel and think
deep inside, allowing me to better understand them.

when it comes to: khi nói tói cherish (v) /'tJer1J/: trân trpng,
yêu quý reveal (v) /rl'vi:l/ : tiét IQ unconscious (adj) /An 'konfas/ :
tièm thúc pave the way for (v) /pew/ : mÚ dtrìmg Cho, làm cho có
the

3. Have you told others about your dreams?

I would say yes if the narrative is positive and gripping, representing wish-fulfillment,
thoughts and motivation. Never do I tell anyone of dreams full of scary moments like
feeling paralyzed or tedious real life events such as going about my normal workday or
picking the kids up from school. And of course, there are also some awkward and
inappropriate dreams that I will take to the grave.

narrative (n) næratw/: câu chuyên gripping (adj) / ' gr1p11J/: thú vi
wish-fulfillment: thành công, thành ttru paralyze (v) Tpæralau/: làm cho
tê liêt tedious (adj) /'ti:dias/: nhàm chán awkward (adj) /'o:kward/: lúng
túng, vvng vè, xáu ho inappropriate (adj) / , ma praupriat/: không thích
hQ'P
I will take to the grave: Mang theo xuong mo (không bao gib nói ra)

PART 2- CROWDED PLACES

Describe a crowded place you have been to

You should say:

Where the place is

When you went there

Who you went there with

And explain how you felt about this crowded place.

17
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Where the place is

Never will I forget a frustrating/an annoying crowd experience I had 2 years ago.

The last time I was in a crowded place was when S V O

This topic takes me back to a day I will always remember due to the massive
number of visitors I encountered on-site.

frustrating crowd experience /'frAstre1t11J/: tråi nghiêm khó Chiu nŒi

dông dúc encounter on-site: gap phåi nŒi dó

When you went there +who you went there with

If my memory serves me right, S V O

Even though I was not keen on going to crowded venues, it was my sibling who
made me go with him.

On that day, I was accompanied by my cousin who had insisted that S V O

If my memory serves me right: Neu tôi nhó không nham venue

(n) /'venju:/: khu vvc sibling (n) / 'slb111J/: anh chi em ruQt
accompany (v) /a 'lampani/: di cùng, di kèm insist (v) nhát quyét, dòi
bäng dtrçc

Explain how you felt about this crowded place

Before coming there, I had expected it to be a joyful event that V O

However, it turned out that S V O

I was astounded/astonished to see a sea of people struggling to find their way

out/to get a better view of .... ...

As we came into....................., we were jostled by + fans pushing their way

towards the stage.

I felt puzzled/shocked to see that S V O

18
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

What disgusted/irritated me the most was to be pushed and shoved in such an

overcrowded and chaotic place.

Fortunately, we eventually managed to make our way towards the exit/make our
way home/evade the chaos.

For some, it is great to immerse themselves in an electric atmosphere of a large

crowd, but I really don't think I will do that any time soon.

joyful (adj) / 'd3J1fl/: vui, hân hoan it turned out: hóa ra là

astounded/astonished (adj) /a 'staundid/l/a'sta:mft/ : kinh ng?c, súng sót a
sea of people: mot bien nguò'i jostle (v) /'d3a:sl/: xô dåy, chen lán
puzzled/shocked (adj) /'pAzld/: lúng túng, bát ngò disgust/irritate (v)
Il'ltelt/: chQC túc, kích dQng manage to make our way towards the exit:
co ging tìm dtrŒc loi ra evade (v) /l'veld/: tránh khói chaos (n) / 'kua:s/:
sv hõn 10?n madness (n) mædnas/: diên cuong, giûn giü electric
atmosphere (n): bàu không khí nhiêt huyet, sôi dQng

PART 3

1. Why do you think some people enjoy going to crowded places?

I'd hazard a guess that it has something to do with human nature. I mean, humans are
hardwired to be socially connected, so being in a crowd is a lot more than a reminder
that there are others to help if need be. This trend is also attributable to the fact that
crowds make experiences richer. Watching a movie in a packed movie theater, the
audience will actually enjoy the movie more as they get to hear the oohs, and the ahhs,
of the crowd.

hazard a guess /'hæzard/: phóng doán, dy doán have

something to do with: có liên quan gì dó hardwired
(adj) / ha:rd 'wmard/: dtrçc lûp trình sin socially connected
(adj): két noi xã hQi reminder (n) /rl mamdar/: nhäc
nhÚ if need be: neu can thiet attributable (adj) /a
'frlbjatabl/: liên quan, là do packed (adj) /pækt/: dông
dúc

2. Where is the most crowded place in your city?

19
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Hanoi has long been ranked the worst city in Vietnam for congestion, so it is no wonder
that almost all streets in the heart of downtown are jam-packed with road users making
their way home after work. This chaotic scene is mostly seen in bottlenecks, causing
drivers to travel at an average of 12 miles per hour during peak times.

congestion (n) /kan d3estJan/: tình tr?ng täc nghën, tic

dtrìrng it is no wonder: dtrŒng nhiên downtown
(n/adv): trung tâm thành phó jam-packed (adj): quá
dông road users: ngtrìri tham gia giao thông chaotic /kel
'a:tlk/ scene: cånh ttrŒng hðn 10?n bottleneck
(n) /'ba:tlnek/: diém nghën at an average of: trung
bình peak times: gib cao diem

3. People behave differently in crowded places, why do you think this happens?

I am not an expert on this, so I am not sure why individuals act differently in crowds.
Maybe when we're in a group, we have a strong tendency to conform to the norms of
that group so that we won't become misfits. The so-called social psychology is apt to
result in many situations in which we may go along with the crowd only to end up
doing something we regret, or join a team and embrace challenges we will never
embrace on our own.

I am not an expert on this: Tôi không phåi là chuyên gia trong viêc này
conform (v) /kan 'fa:rm/: tuân thú norm (n) /no:rm/: chuan muc misfit
(n) /'rmsflt/: ké loài apt to /æpt/: có xu htró'ng, phù hQ'P embrace (n)
111m 'brus/: cháp nhûn, dón nhûn

20
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

ÐÈ 14

PART 1

FAVOURITE DAYS

1. Which day of the week do you hate the most?

For many, Saturdays tend to appeal to them most as it's a great time to get out of work
mode, unplug from their tedious day-to-day responsibilities, rejuvenate themselves or
simply devote time to bonding with their loved ones. Nevertheless, as a mother of 2
sons, I always dread having to face an exhausting smorgasbord of soccer-playing,
stroller-pushing, diaper-changing, and birthday-party-going at the weekend.

unplug (v) / , An 'plAg/: gö bó, thoát khói tedious (adj) /'ti:dias/:

nhàm chán day-to-day: ngày qua ngày rejuvenate (v)
/r1'd3u:vane1t/: tré hóa, phvc hoi bond (v) / 'ba:nd11J/: két nói,
gän két loved ones: nguò'i thân, ngtrìri chúng ta yêu quý dread
(v) /dred/: sç smorgasbord (n) str hõn 10?n, nol
lau thûp cam stroller-pushing: kéo xe day diaper-changing: thay
bim

2. Which day is your favourite day?

Except for the weekends which are intimidating to me, every weekday can be an
exhilarating experience. As a career-minded person, Monday is the time when I can
truly get a fresh start of the week and map out how work will move forward the
following days. Then, the next 3 days are normally the most constructive and
productive period as it's when I unleash my creativity to accomplish work-related tasks.
Meanwhile, meaningful downtime always comes on Friday, allowing me to enjoy a
break, come back to my inner self and do some spiritual practice like writing in my
gratitude journal.

intimidating (adj) 11m ' t1m1de1t11J/: häm dpa, dáng

exhilarating (adj) /lg zllare1t11J/: vui vé, ho hói career-
minded: có dinh htró'ng nghè nghiêp constructive (adj) /kan
'strAktw/: có tính xây dvng productive (adj) /pra dAktw/: näng
suát unleash my creativity An 'li:J/: rnÚ ra, giåi phóng sv sáng

21
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

downtime (n) dauntaun/: thòi gian nghí spiritual

practice /'spn•ltfual/: h0?t dQng tinh than my gratitude
journal: nhât ký biét O'n

3. How do you usually spend your time?

For me, time is finite and priceless , so everything I do, every minute I spend, I always
make sure that I fill my life with things that deserve to be there. It means instead of
squandering my time on trivial, unimportant things like a toxic relationship, boring
chitchat or recurring meetings, I would prefer to figure out what matters to me the most
in life and learn to prioritize.

finite and priceless /'famalt/: hüu và vô giá trivial (adj) T tryial/: vô

bó recurring (adj) /r1'k3:.r11J/: dinh kÿ prioritize (v) /pral
'a:ratau/: tru tiên

22
IELTS DUONG PHUONG [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

PART 2

Describe a book you want to read again.

You should say:

What the book is about

Why you read it

What you learned from this book

And explain why you would like to read it again.

What the book is about

The book that makes the strongest impression on me is A, which was written by A.

The book tells the story about + Noun/ The book revolves around + Noun/The book
chronicles + Noun

make the strongest impression 111m 'prefn/: an ttrŒng rn?nh më revolve

around /riva:lv/: xoay quanh chronicle (v) / 'kra:mkl/: ghi chép, cung cáp chi
tiét

29
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Why you read it

It was my cousin/bestie who recommended the book to me, insisting that it wouldn't
waste my time.

I stumbled across a book review complementing the book on its

touching/captivating/hilarious/outstanding plot, so I decided to buy it straight away.

bestie (n) / 'besti/: thân stumble across (v) /'stAmbl/: tình cìr tìm tháy
complement (v/n) /'ka:mpllment/: khen ngpi captivating
(adj) /'kæp.ta.ve1.t11J/: háp dän hilarious (adj) /hl 'lerias/: hài htróc
plot (n) /pla:t/: cót truyên straight away: ngay lûp túc

What you learnt from the book

What strikes/fascinates me the most about the book is + Noun/that S V O

From the very beginning until the end, Noun (tên tác giå) has me gripped by her/his
+ Noun.

Through this page-turner, I could draw meaningful lessons about +Noun

Thanks to the book, I came to realize that S V O

strike/fascinate (v) /stralk/:/ 'fæsmelt/: gây án ttrçng grip (v) /gr1P/: thu hút,
háp dhn ai page-turner (n): cuon sách hay draw meaningful lessons: rút ra
bài hQC ý nghïa

Explain why you would like to read it again

I was so impressed with/by its inspirational/motivational/gripping narrative that I

used to read it over and over again in my spare time.

I had to go back and reread a few chapters to see if I'd missed anything.

I would definitely recommend this book because it keeps us reading without ever
wanting to put the book down.

narrative (n) næratw/: câu chuyên put the book down: ngìrng dQC sách

24
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

PART 3

1. What kinds of books do Vietnamese people like to read and why can they
learn from them?

Actually, for me choosing what to read is a matter of personal taste, and it also largely
depends on how old people are. For example, while most of the elders in my country
cling on to old, classic books and even revisit those classics on the shelves gathering
dust, younger readers tend to lean towards contemporary literature works.

a matter of personal taste: van dè liên quan tói thích Cá nhân cling
on to /k111J/: gìn giü can thûn, co ging giü láy gathering dust /dAst/:
phú bvi lean towards contemporary literature works /kan tempareri/: thiên
ve các tác
Pham vän hQC dtrŒng

2. Do people in your country prefer to read printed books or e-books?

I guess each medium attracts readers in its own way. For millennials like me, E-books
are far more convenient to read, as one does not have to lug around a heavy paper book,
which is discarded once the contents are read, contributing to paper waste. On the other
hand, the older counterparts seem to favor printed books over digital ones as there is
something satisfying about turning the page and holding a physical book in their hands.

medium (n) /'mi:diam/: phtrŒng tiên, phtrŒng tiên truyèn (só nhièu là media)
millennial /mîlenial/: Gen Y (nguò'i Sinh ra trong khoång tìr näm 1981 tói
1996) lug around /lng/: vác theo discard (v) /dl'ska:rd/: bó di content (n) /
'ka:ntent/: nQi dung counterpart (n) kauntarpa:rt/: bån sao doi chieu, nguò'i có
cùng dia vi

25
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

ÐÈ 15

PART 1

AMBITIONS

1. What career ambitions or goals do you have?

I envision myself as an inspirer and an avid teacher , so I've always been attempting to
become a high-flying English teacher who can both impart knowledge to my students
and at the same time inspire them to lead a purposeful and satisfying life. In order to
attain my goals, I've been taking online courses related to pedagogical approaches to
strengthen my knowledge base and fill my skill gaps.

envision (v) 11m 'V13n/: mtrìrng ttrçng, hình dung avid

(adj) /'ævld/: nhiêt huyét attempt (v) /a 'tempt/: có ging
high-flying (adj) / hal 'fla111J/: cyc kÿ thành công
impart (v) 111m 'pa:rt/: truyèn satisfying life
sæt1sfa111J/: cuQc song viên mãn, vìra ý attain (v) /a'tem/:
dtrçc pedagogical approach / ,peda ga:d31k/: phtrŒng
pháp giång dw knowledge base: nen tång kién thúc fill
my skill gaps: hoàn thiên kÿ näng

2. Is it important to have ambitions?

Undoubtedly yes! Ambition is what gives us motivation, a purpose in life and drives us
to fight for what we believe in. So, I firmly believe that those who are fueled with
aspirations and do whatever it takes to have the life they have longed for will likely
become high performers in their domain.

fuel (v) /'fju:al/: tràn dày, làm day, aspiration (n) / ,æspa
relJn/: khát vpng high performer (n): nguò'i có thành tích cao,
nguò'i dãn dau domain (n) /dao 'mem/: lïnh vvc

3. What were your ambitions when you were a child?

As a child, my dreams started off a bit unrealistic with things like superheroes or
worldwide famous singers, but they soon faded away over time and were overtaken by
sensible ambitions like a successful career woman and a world traveler. Looking back

26
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

on my childhood aspirations, I always crave the innocent version of myself, reminding

me of a part of my inner self that has been forgotten.

fade away /feld/: nh?t dan, mìr dan overtake (v) / , auvar telk/: lán át
sensible (adj) Tsensabl/: thiét thuc, thuc té innocent (adj) T masnt/: ngây
thŒ crave (v) /krew/: khao khát, mong muon

PART 2

Describe an interesting talk or speech

You should say

When you heard it

Where you heard it

What it was about

And explain why you think it was interesting.

When/Where you heard it

Last month, while I was scrolling through the Internet, I stumbled across a video
that left a long-lasting impression on me.

For months, this talk has ranked as one of the most highly-rated Ted Talk videos
ever.

Since the day it was released/made public, it has become an Internet sensation and
drawn the attention of thousands of global viewers.

scroll through /skraul/: ltró't m?ng highly-rated (adj): dánh giá cao
release (v) /rfli:s/: phát hành
Internet sensation /sen 'selfn/: hiên ttrŒng m?ng

What it was about

The speech was delivered by + Noun — an eminent health psychologist, a great

public speaker and a strong communicator.

27
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

It revolves around + Noun/lt provides us with interesting information regarding +

Noun.

deliver (v) /dl'lwar/: phát bieu eminent (adj) em.l.nant/ :noi tieng, xuat
sic revolve around (v) /rl 'va:lv/: xoay quanh

28
IELTS DUONG PHUONG [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Explain why you think it was interesting

I had never heard of any address as

motivational/meaningful/inspirational/captivating as this one before.

The way the speaker addressed his/her audience truly impressed me.

What amazed/stunned me the most about the speech was + Noun/that S V O

Her arguments on + Noun + can be of great help/value to those who S V O

His/Her incredible performance will definitely have you watching over and over
again in disbelief.

address (n) /a'dres/: bài diën vän, diën thuyét captivating

(adj) /'kæpt1ve1t11J/: háp dän amaze (v) /a 'muzd/: làm ai ng?C nhiên
stun (v) /stAnd/: làm ai ng?C nhiên argument (n) /'a:rgjumant/: lý luûn, lûp
luûn

29
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

PART 3

1. What benefits does the Internet bring to communication?

That human lives are so intertwined with high-speed Internet is bound to make us forget
the ways the Internet has driven the evolution of communication. Social media
platforms enable us to keep in touch with our loved ones and our childhood friends, and
stay up-todate on the lives of those who we care about without geographical barriers.
The Internet also prompted the advent of innovative and collaborative tools like
Microsoft Team and
Zoom, making collaborating with colleagues easier than ever.

intertwined (adj) / ,mtar'twamd/: gin lien bound to

(adj) /baund/: có xu htró'ng, khå näng cao së
geographical barrier / d3i:a 'græfikl/: rào cån dia lý
prompt (v) /pra:mpt/: thúc dåy advent (n) /'ædvent/: sv
ra dòi

2. Which one is better, being a communicator or a listener?

I guess both are equally important, which means in listening we learn, and in speaking
we transform. However, in order to become an effective communicator, the first step is
to practice active listening. Being a good listener will allow us to be more receptive to
fresh insights, novel ideas and better align with our audience. By listening well, we are
able to understand the audience and discover the best way to tailor our message to their
needs and concerns.

transform (v) /træns To:rm/: thay doi, bien doi

receptive (adj) /rl 'septlv/: dc tiép nhûn insight
(n) /'msalt/: sv hieu thau, hieu biet align (v) /a 'lam/:
làm cho phù hçp, làm cho thing hàng tailor (v) T tellar/:
dièu chính

3. Will Vietnamese people feel nervous when it comes to public speaking?

I am firmly convinced that people across the globe, youngsters and adults alike, all feel
paralyzed by the fear and anxiety of public speaking. However, it seems to me that this

30
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

phobia is more intense among Vietnamese young people. It may be attributable to the
fact that at school, students tend to mainly focus on absorbing theoretical knowledge
instead of engaging in oral presentations, discussions and debates, making them dread
having to express themselves and deliver a message in front of a crowd.

paralyze (v) /'pæralau/:làm al te het phobia

(n) /'faubia/: sv ám ånh, nði sç hãi intense
(adj) 11m 'tens/: mãnh liêt, dü dQi absorb (v)
lab 'zo:rb/: tiép thu oral (adj) /'o:ral/: Ibi nói
dread (v) /dred/:

31
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

ÐÈ 16

PART 1

ARTS

1. Do you like drawing? Why?

Frankly speaking, I am not an artistic type, so painting, drawing or crafts would never
be my kind of thing. Back in my childhood, I used to take drawing lessons at school as
a compulsory subject. However, all I could produce was only some weird doodles here
and there, making my scores terrible.

frankly (adv) /'fræq.kli/: thành thvc, thäng thán

an artistic type la: 'tlstlk/: nguò'i có khiéu nghê thuût
craft (n) kræft/: thú công my kind of thing: dièu tôi
thích compulsory (adj) /kam pAlsari/: bit buQc
weird doodles /'du:dl/: hình vë kÿ 1?, búc vë nguêch
ngo?c

2. Do you want to visit an art gallery or museum?

I'm not a culture vulture, so art galleries of any kind never catch my attention. The truth
is, most of the artworks are too abstract for me, and I have neither patience nor interest
in figuring out the colours, forms, materials and the hidden message that the artist
conveys. Like many other millennials my age, I'm more drawn to modern art forms like
dancing or movies.

culture vulture /'vAltJar/: nguùi dam mê nghê thuût, kèn ken vän hoá
catch my attention (v): lôi cuon sv chú ý abstract (adj) /'æbstrækt/: trìru
ttrçng convey (v) /kan 'vel/: truyèn d?t, truyèn tåi

3. What are the differences between old and modern arts?

Well, I'm not an expert on this, but as I understand it, the main difference lies in the
values that are put into the works of art. Regarding old art, ancient civilizations
produced artworks that were identifiable to their distinct culture and reflected the
history, religion and lifestyle of its place of origin. By contrast, modern art reflects the

32
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

same elements and values on a global scale, and places more emphasis on expressing an
individual's vision, core beliefs and original ideas.

I'm not an expert on this: tôi không phåi chuyên gia trong van dè này
identifiable (adj) /al, dentl'fmabl/: có the nhûn ra distinct culture
/d1'st11Jkt/: vän hóa khác biêt, riêng biêt place of origin /'o:r1d31n/: noi
xuat xú on a global scale /skell/: toàn cau emphasis (n) /'emfasls/:
nhan rn?nh core belief /ko:r/: niem tin cot lõi original (adj) /a
'rld3anl/: góc, nguyên bån, dQc dáo

PART 2

Describe a sport you enjoy watching on TV

You should say:

What the sport is

How often you watch it

What kind of people enjoy watching it

And explain why you enjoy watching it.

What the sport is

As a sporty type, I am always fanatical about watching sports programs broadcast

on TV, especially football matches.

Although I am not an armchair sport enthusiast, football matches broadcasted on

TV always appeal to me.

fanatical about (adj) /fa 'nætlkl/: phát cuong, dam mê vè broadcast (v)
phát, chiéu sport enthusiast (n) 11m 'Ou:ziæst/: ngtrìri dam mê
the thao appeal to (v) /a'pi:l/: háp dhn

How often you watch it

33
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

I can say I devote at least 1 hour to enjoying live matches on online streaming platforms
on a daily basis.

As I'm up to my neck in work, the evening is the only time I can spend time
watching my favourite football team playing on the pitch through pay-TV
broadcasters.

Due to my hectic schedule, I only can spend about 30 minutes per day watching
the highlights of the matches so as to catch up on the action and relive the electric
atmosphere of the games.

devote (v) /dl 'vaut/: dành ra, cong hién streaming platform (n) : nèn tång
phát trvc tiép up to my neck: bûn ngûp dau ngûp co pitch (n) /P1tJ/: sân
highlight (n) Thallalt/: tin noi bêt nhát catch up on (v) : bát kip
electric (adj) /1 'lektrlk/: náo dQng, sôi noi

What kind of people enjoy watching it

It is no wonder that this spectator sport has attracted people of all ages and from
all walks of life for years.

In my family, I am keen on sitting on the couch in my living room and discussing

the outstanding performance of my favorite player with my dad.

My friend and I might argue throughout the match but will come together to
debate the outcome after the final whistle.

spectator sport (n) / 'spekteltar/: the thao thu hút nhièu khán giå couch
(n) /kautJ/: ghé dài outcome (n) Tautl«m/: két quå whistle (n) /'wlsl/:
thoi còi

Explain why you enjoy watching it

Being an avid supporter of my national football team gives me a sense of

belonging with friends and family that can prevent feelings of isolation.

What gets me so interested in this sport is the rivalry between the teams.

What strikes me the most is that this sport is so hard to bet on with its sheer
unpredictability.

34
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Not to mention that the rules of the game are pretty straightforward and understandable
for even youngsters.

After all, it is the thrill and the dramatic moments of this sport that allow me to
unwind myself and recuperate from stress.

avid (adj) ævld/: nhiêt tình isolation (n) / msa'le1Jn/: sv Cô lûp, Cô don
rivalry (n) Trawlri/: sv C?nh tranh, ganh dua bet on (v) : dãt ctrŒc, chic än,
chic thäng unpredictability (n) / , Anprl dikta 'bllati/: không thé dy doán
straightforward (adj) / dŒn giån, dé hiéu thrill (n) /0r11/: hòi
hQp, sv thích thú unwind (v) / , An 'wamd/: thu giãn recuperate (v)
/rl'ku:parelt/: hoi phvc

PART 3

1. What kind of sports do you think most people like?

I would hazard a guess that on the whole, team sports, especially contact sports like
soccer or badminton, are the most exhilarating physical activities people engage in. In
fact, the benefits of being active and involved in those contact sports outnumber the
risks of possible injury. It is the values of collaboration, mutual respect, discipline and
sportsmanship that make the game special and enthralling for both the athletes and
spectators.

hazard a guess / 'hæzard/: phóng doán, du doán contact

sport: môn the thao có sv tiep xúc ve the luc exhilarating
(adj) fig zllare1t11J/: vui vé, làm phán chan outnumber
(v) / ,aut'nAmbar/: nhieu hon mutual respect /'mju:tfual/:
tôn trpng lãn nhau discipline (n) dlsaplm/: ký luût
sportsmanship (n) /'spo:rtsmanflp/: tinh thàn the thao
enthralling (adj) 11m 'Oro:111J/: thú vi spectator
(n) /'spekteltar/: khán giå (ngoi ngoài trìri)

2. Do you play sports professionally or do it for fun?

Admittedly, I have no innate talent for sports, and nor am I fanatical about being a
professional in the sports industry, so I can say I do it mostly for enjoyment and
wellness. In fact, regular exercise not only boosts my physical and mental well-being
but also serves as a natural antidepressant for me.

35
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

admittedly (adv) lad 'mltldli/: phåi thú nhûn, thìra nhûn räng
innate (adj) /l'nelt/: bam Sinh fanatical (adj) /fa'nætlkl/:
khao khát, cuong nhiêt wellness (n) Twelnas/: giü gìn súc khóe
mental well-being: súc khóe tinh than antidepressant
(n) / ,æntldl 'presnt/: thuoc Chong suy nhtrŒc

3. What's the difference between playing sports on your own and playing
sports in a group?

The degree of dependence is obviously what distinguishes joining a sport match with
teammates from a physical activity people do alone. Playing sports in a collective
environment means that teammates have to depend on each other, learn to collaborate
and strive for a common goal. Meanwhile, engaging in any form of physical exercise
on their own allows for the total freedom and independence of setting their own goal
and working at their own pace.

distinguish (v) /dl' stlljgwlf/: phân biêt collective /ka

'lek.tw/ (adj) tap thé strive for /straw/ (v) co gäng, phán dau
do sth at one's own pace: tuÿ chính toc dQ, làm theo súc cúa
mình

ÐÈ 17

PART 1

MUSIC

1. What type of music do you most like to listen to? (Why?/Why not?)

I am a nostalgic person who often reminisces about the good old days, so from time to
time I will enjoy some soothing pop ballads from my youth. I tend to get hooked on my
favorite tracks with catchy melodies and meaningful lyrics on a daily basis. This
pastime acts as a stress reliever, taking me back to the care-free days of my childhood
and helping me escape from the hectic pace of life.

nostalgic (adj) Ina: 'stæld31k/: hoài niêm

reminisce (v) / reml ms/: hoi tuðng soothing
(adj) /'su:.ð11J/: nhe nhàng get hooked on /hukt/:
bi thu hút rn?nh më bói catchy (adj) / 'ketfi/: bát tai,

36
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

háp dãn stress reliever (n) /rili:var/: cách giåi tóa

cäng thäng hectic (adj) /'hektlk/: sôi noi, hoi hå

2. Have you always liked the same type of music? (Why?/Why not?)

As I previously mentioned, pop music has always been my most favorite genre of
music since I was young. Apart from its seductive tunes, it is the relatable lyrics of pop
songs that hook me and keep me loyal. You know, pop music lyrics are not as likely to
delve into societal ills or personal issues as punk or earlier rap music, but many pop
songs have true-to-life lyrical content like personal and romantic life, which broadly
applies to every listener.

genre (n) /3a:nra/: the 10?i seductive (adj) /SI '

dAkt1v/: cuon hút, háp dãn relatable (adj) /rîleltabl/:
có thé dòng cåm, có liên quan loyal (adj) / 'IJ1al/: trung
thành, chân thành delve into societal ills /delv/: di sâu vào
các van de xã hQi true-to-life (adj): thvc té

3. Do you prefer listening to music alone or with other people? (Why?/Why

not?)

As an introverted music lover, I prefer enjoying music by myself on headphones to

doing it in the presence of other people like at a concert. For me, listening to music
alone may amplify the music's emotional effects. As a solitary listener, I tend to
experience more intense feelings of both happiness and sadness in response to music,
compared to the distracting noise I hear when being in a crowd.

presence (n) /'prezns/: hiên diên, chúng kién amplify

(v) /'æmpllfar/: phóng d?i, khuéch solitary (adj) /'sa:lateri/: dQc
thân, mot mình distracting (adj) /dl 'stræk.t11J/: gây mát tap trung

PART 2

Describe a perfect house you saw

You should say:

When and where you saw it

37
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]
What it looked like

What special features it had

And explain why you liked it.

38
IELTS DUONG PHUONG [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

When and where you saw it

Last year/month, when I was walking past a/an + Noun, I caught a

glimpse of a magnificent/splendid/dream + Noun (detached/terraced/fair-
sized/red-brick house) that made a strong impression on me.

The architecture of the house was so striking/stunning that I decided to

take a closer look.

I'm going to describe a magnificent house that has caught my attention since the
first time I saw it.

magnificent (adj) /mæg mfisnt/: tráng IQ, nguy nga splendid (adj) r
splen.dld/: tráng IQ detached (adj) /dl 'tætJt/: biêt lûp terraced (adj) T
terast/: lièn kè striking (adj) T stra1k11J/: nói bêt stunning
(adj) /'stAn11J/: tuyêt vòi, IQng lãy catch my attention (v): thu hút sv chú ý

What it looks like/what features it has

This house is located/situated/lies in + Noun overlooking a/an + Noun.

Secluded from the busy and crowded streets, the house has a/an + Noun,
Noun and Noun.

Hidden behind + Noun, the house boasts + Noun and Noun.

The house was well-equipped/furnished with + Noun, making it a comfy

place to come back after tiring hours at work.

The floor-to-ceiling windows and glass balcony allow for gorgeous

scenic views of + Noun.

overlook: quan sát tìr trên cao, nhìn xuong secluded (adj) /SI
'klu:dld/: biêt lûp, tách biêt khói hidden (adj) / ' hldn/: ån, khuát well-
equipped: dày dú thiét bi furnished (adj) /'f3:rmJt/: dò có sin
comfy (adj) /'knmfi/: thoåi mái gorgeous (adj) /'go:rd3as/: dep dë, tráng
IQ

Explain why you liked it

39
 I was stunned to see the beauty of such a gorgeous house blending in
with the surrounding + Noun.

What struck/fascinated me the most about the house is not only its
extraordinary/ancient/modern architecture but also its exclusive/elegant
interior.

Although it's ages since I last saw it, I have always dreamed of waking
up to these scenic views every morning.

blend in (v): két hQ'P, hòa trQn vói exclusive (adj) /lk'sklu:sw/:
dQc dáo, dQc quyen, cao cap interior (n) 11m 'tn•iar/: thiét ké nQi thát

PART 3

1. What are the differences between an apartment and a house?

The clearest difference , I believe, lies in the cost of owning these two dwelling units.
As a general rule, it costs less to buy an apartment than it does to buy a house given the
fact that they offer the same number of rooms and are in the same location. The degree
of privacy is also what sets living in a house apart from that in a flat. On the whole,
houses offer more private space because you own a specific and segmented block of
land, and it's also highly likely that you don't have to contend with the noise issue
arising from sharing walls, floors and ceilings with other apartments.

dwelling unit dwe111J/: kieu nhà

given the fact that: xét tói thtrc té là
segment (v) /seg 'ment/: phân chia
contend with (v): doi mãt vói arise
(v): xuat hiên, nåy Sinh ra

2. Do young people in your country like to live with their parents or by

themselves?

Generally, Vietnamese families have become more dispersed and less close, and more
people seem to like living independently from their parents these days than in the last
few decades. This may be down to the fact that traditional family culture has been less

40
 [OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

strong than before, making more and more emerging adults live separately from their
family and long for more personal independence.

dispersed (adj) /dl' sp3v:st/: xa

cách be down to the fact that: là do
emerging adults (n): thanh niên long
for (v): khao khát

3. What difficulties do people living in the city have to face?

An immense number! The greatest difficulty city inhabitants have to encounter is a

sense of isolation and lack of community spirit. The well-known phrase that you're
never lonelier than in a crowd holds true for many who live in major cities. Not to
mention that metropolitan life results in more health-related issues due to an alarming
level of pollution, higher working pressure as well as confined living space.

immense (adj) mens/: lón, khong

10 sense of isolation / alsa 'le1Jn/:
cåm giác Cô lûp metropolitan (adj) /
, metra 'pa:lltan/: vùng dô thi
confined (adj) /kan 'famd/: chât
hep

41
 ÐÈ 18

PART 1

STAYING UP LATE

1. Do you often stay up late at night?

Although I am fully aware of all the repercussions of being a night owl, my work
commitments and family obligations cause me to stay up late more often than not. This
has resulted in my constant craving for taking a nap or getting some shut-eye at any
time of the day. Weekends are the only time when I can do some bedtime reading and
fall asleep early to regain my energy and vitality.

repercussion (n) / hûu quå night owl (n) /aul/:

cú dêm work commitment /ka mltmant/: trách nhiêm vói
công viêc obligation (n) / , a:bll ' gelfn/: nghïa vv constant
craving /'kreW11J/: liên tvc thèm muon, khao khát take a nap
(v): dánh mot giác, chQ'P mät (giác ngü ngän) shut-eye (n):
chQ'P mät regain (v) /rigem/ vitality (n) /vartælati/:
súc song

42
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

2. Did you go to bed early more often when you were younger? Why/Why not?

Sure! I consider myself to be very lucky to have had a helicopter mother who was very
strict on me, forbidding me from using my computer and smartphone in bed and at least
one hour prior to bedtime. This resulted in me getting into quite a healthy habit of going
to bed early. Having said that, like many other teens my age, every now and then I
managed to cover myself with a blanket, getting lost in my favourite comic or graphic
novel until midnight.

helicopter mother: kieu nguò'i me can thiêp, båo vê con thái quá
forbid (v) /far'bld/: ngän cám, ché prior to bedtime: truóc gib ngú
having said that: mac dù dã nói nhtr vûy every now and then:
thính thoång

3. How do you feel the day after you have stayed up late?

As a night owl by habit, I tend to wake up very late the next morning after having
stayed up late the previous night in order to repay my sleep debt. Still, my mind is
always cloudy, and I always feel like I'm sleepwalking and suffer from exhaustion as
well as poor focus on tasks. This is obviously attributable to the fact that my body's
internal clock is reversed.

by habit: thói quen sleep debt (n): nç ngú sleepwalking (v) / ' sli:p
wa:.k/: mong du attributable (adj) /a 'frlbjatabl/: cho là, là do body's
internal clock: dong ho Sinh hoc trong cc the reverse (v) /r1'v3:rs/: dåo
lôn

PART 2

Describe an expensive gift that you want to give someone if you save a lot of money.

You should say:

What the gift is

Who you will give it to

Why you want to give it to him/her

And explain whether this person will like the gift or not.

43
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

What the gift is/Who you will give it to

If I could afford it, I would definitely purchase/buy a/an +Noun and give it to my
+Noun as a gift.

I always wish to afford money to buy my + Noun a/an + Noun as a gift on his/her
. birthday.

afford (v) /a'fo:rd/: dú khå näng

Why you want to give it to him/her

Giving this gift is just one way I can show my + Noun how much I love and
appreciate him/her.

This + Noun can act as either a/an A or a/an B, allowing him/her to V-inf.

It is a great way to pay my tribute to his/her + Noun.

appreciate (v) /a 'pri:fielt/: quý trpng act as either...or...: dóng vai trò
nhtr là hoäc...
pay my tribute /'frlbju:t/: tôn vinh, bày tó lòng kính trpng

Explain whether this person will like the gift or not

I firmly believe that this present will fascinate/impress him/her with its + Noun
and Noun.

I'm not sure, but I guess this delightful present will suit him/her well because S V
O.

As it may cost an arm and a leg to purchase this item/gift, I hope he/she will be
delighted with my present and keep it as a physical reminder of my love for
him/her.

fascinate (v) /'fæsmelt/: án ttrçng impress (v) hm 'pres/: án ttrŒng

delightful (adj) /dl'laltfl/: thích thú, thú vi suit (v) /su:t/: phù hçp cost an
arm and a leg: dät dó physical reminder: vat nhäc nhÚ

PART 3

44
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

1. How do you choose presents for others if you don't know what they like?

Is it difficult to buy the right present?

Deciding what I should buy for others as a gift on a special occasion has always been an
intimidating task for me. Especially, what challenges me the most is when the intended
recipient insists on telling me that he or she doesn't want anything. And I tend to follow
my gut feeling when it comes to choosing what to give my loved ones or besties. I have
a firm conviction that a gift from the heart is the one forever cherished.

intimidating (adj) 11m t1m1de1t11J/: dáng

recipient (n) /r1Âpiant/: ngtrìri nhûn gut feeling /gAt/:
linh cåm besties (n) / 'besti/: thân conviction (n) /kan
'vlkfn/: nièm tin cherish (v) /'tJer1J/: trân trpng

2. What do you think about people giving money to charity organizations?

In an era of massive and rising inequality, charitable giving seems to be an

uncontroversially good deed that well-off people can do in order to return some of their
wealth to society and contribute to alleviating poverty in developing countries.
However, a question that I've been wrestling with is how come inequality and poverty
keep rising while there are more philanthropists than ever before? It may have
something to do with how much money is actually transferred to people in need or how
effectively it is used in reality.

era (n) / 'Ira/, Tera/: thòi

charitable giving tfæratabl/: làm tìr thiên

uncontroversially good deed: viêc tot không can bàn cãi
well-off (adj) : giàu có alleviate (v) /a 'li:vielt/: giåm bó't,
xóa bó wrestle (v) Tresl/: trän trÚ, vat IQn
philanthropist (n) /fl 'læn0rap1st/: rn?nh thtrìrng quân
transfer (v) /træns f3:r/: chuyen tói

3. What do young people like to save money to buy?

45
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

Well, I suppose that most young people nowadays are technophiles, so definitely
technological gadgets are what most of them long to possess. Whether it's the latest
iPhone or a next-generation smart speaker, many youngsters now can't resist splurging
when a new gadget is launched. While gadget lovers are often seen as materialistic, I
believe that those who love buying new devices are simply keen on learning about new
technology.

technophile (n) teknaufall/: nguùi dam mê công

nghê long to (v) : ao tróc splurge (v) /sp13:rd3/:
phung phí launch (v) /lo:ntJ/: ra mät materialistic (adj)
lima tn•ia 'llstlk/: chú nghïa duy vat

ÐÈ 19

PART 1

CHOCOLATE

1. Do you like eating chocolate?

Absolutely yes! I have a sweet tooth, and I always crave chocolate, especially chocolate
nut clusters. It is the sweetness and the way the outermost layer of fat melts in my
mouth that tickle my taste buds. However, I try to enjoy it with moderation because its
high fat and sugar content may take a toll on my physique and general health condition.

have a sweet tooth: håo ngpt crave

(v) /krew/: thèm, khao khát outermost
layer: ló'P ngoài cùng melt (v) /melt/: tan
chåy tickle my taste buds: kích thích vi giác
with moderation / ma:da ' relfn/: dieu dQ
take a toll on (v) : ånh htrúng, gây ra thiêt
physique (n) /fl'zi:k/: vóc dáng

2. Did you give chocolate to someone as a gift?

Yes, I did. Looking back on my childhood, I used to spend all of my pocket money
buying chocolate coins in a grocery store in the neighborhood as birthday gifts for my

46
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

friends. Needless to say, all the recipients were fascinated to receive those chocolate
coins as they were fun to open, fun to eat, and all-around a sweet treat.

chocolate coin (n) : socola hình dong xu

grocery store (n) /'grausari/: quán hóa
needless to say: không can phåi nói
treat (n) /tri:t/: dièu thú vi, sv thiét dãi

3. Why do you think it's so popular?

I reckon that much of its popularity comes down to how its bittersweet flavor and its fat
break down in our mouth, making it so irresistible and desirable for people of all ages.
Another reason behind the ubiquity of this sweet treat is that it has been scientifically
proven to help us relieve stress. In fact, savoring a piece of dark chocolate helps lower
our stress level by affecting our body's release of cortisol — a stress hormone, thus
making us feel good and crave for more.

bittersweet (adj) / bltar swi:t/: vìra ngpt vìra däng irresistible (adj) / I

nstabl/: háp dän ubiquity (n) /ju: 'blkwati/: phó bién savor (v) T sewar/:
thuúng thúc release (n/v) /rl 'li:s/: làm giåm, sv giåi phóng

PART 2

Describe a water sport you would like to try in the future.

You should say:

What it is

Where you would like to try it

How difficult it is

And explain why you would like to try it

What it is

47
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

A water sport I would like to try is A, which is considered/known as + Noun.

As a sporty type, I've already experienced a couple of water sports like Noun and
Noun. However, If possible, I would like to try + Noun.

This is an exhilarating physical activity that allows me to get deep underwater and
experience marine life.

To ensure safety and enjoy the activity to the fullest, participants must wear a/an
+ Noun, which enables them to V-inf.

sporty (adj) /'spo:rti/: mê thé thao marine life /ma ri:n/: dòi song durói
bien

Where you would like to try it

In order to engage in this sport, I'm going to go with my friends to + Noun, which
is widely known as the best place to enjoy + Noun.

How difficult it is

The most difficult part would be + Ving/Noun.

What challenges me the most is that S V O

Although I have been taking a swimming course to prepare for this, it's very
likely I would need to +Vinf.

Maybe it is challenging for beginners like me, but I believe that with some
adequate training, I would be able to make it.

adequate (adj) /'ædlkwat/: dày dú

Why you would like to try it

As a nature lover, I aspire to have a closer look at the stunning ocean life and take
some photos of marine creatures like seahorses, jellyfish and much more besides
with a waterproof camera.

This water sport allows me to not only recuperate from stress but also step out of
my comfort zone.

48
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

aspire (v) /a'spmar/: khao khát, mong mói creature (n) / 'kri:tfar/:
Sinh vat jellyfish (n) /'d3elif1J/: con súa waterproof camera: máy
ånh Chong ntróc recuperate (v) /rl'ku:parelt/: hoi phvc step out of
my comfort zone: btróc ra khói vùng an toàn

PART 3

1. What's the difference between outdoor sports and indoor sports?

I'm firmly convinced that getting involved in an outdoor physical activity is far more
thrilling than engaging in a sport indoors. This is because outdoor sports increase our
exposure to nature as well as bring us more surprising experiences and challenges. To
take running as an example, indoor treadmill running is much more tedious as it
involves staying in a fixed place where the treadmill is located day in and day out. In
contrast, running in a park, on a trail or in a forest with stunning views is more
enjoyable due to the changing scenery, the challenge of uneven ground and unlimited
options for running routes.

I'm firmly convinced: tôi hoàn toàn dong ý

exposure (n) /1k'spaö3ar/: phoi sáng, tiep xúc treadmill

(n) /'tredmll/: buòn té, máy ch?Y tedious (adj) /'ti:dias/: nhàm
chán day in and day out: ngày qua ngày uneven (adj) An
'i:vn/: gap ghènh, không bing phäng route (n) /ru:t/, /raut/: IQ
trình, tuyén dtrìrng

2. What kinds of water sports are popular nowadays?

Well, I would say that water-skiing and scuba-diving are always right at the top of most
people's list when it comes to water sports. Regarding water-skiing, it is a true family
sport which is easy to learn and fun for all ages. As for scuba-diving, this sport
adventure allows divers to spend hours exploring the mysteries of the deep and
discovering the endless beauty under the sea, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience
no one can resist.

water-skiing: tru'0't ntróc scuba-diving (scuba: Self-

Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) (n)

49
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

/'sku:ba daw11J/: Ian có bình dtrõ'ng khí diver (adj) /

'dawar/: nguùi Ian, thŒ lãn a once-in-a-lifetime experience: tråi
nghiêm mot làn trong dbi resist (v) /rl nst/: ctrõ'ng

50
IELTS DUONG PHUONG
[OUR DISCIPLINE - YOUR SUCCESS]

3. Do you think it is necessary for everyone to learn to swim?

Without a doubt, yes! Swimming is one of the fundamental life skills individuals have
to equip themselves with in order to survive in an emergency. In fact, most drownings
will be preventable with the necessary water survival kills. Not to mention that an
adequate amount of practice underwater is highly conducive to both physical stamina
and mental well-being. In fact, swimming allows us to immerse ourselves in cool water
and use most of our muscle groups to move our body through the water. In this way, it
helps in boosting physical strength, burning excessive fat and calories, and entertaining
us after an exhausting day at work.

fundamental (adj) / finda mentl/: cc bån equip (v) 1/1 'loup/:

trang bi emergency (n) myrd3ansi/: khan cáp drowning (n) r
draumq/: vv duoi ntróc preventable (adj) /prflventabl/: có thé ngän
chãn conducive (adj) /kan 'du:sw/: có loi stamina (n) stæmma/:
the luc, súc Chiu dung immerse (v) /l'myrs/: hòa vào, däm chìm
muscle group / 'mnsl/: nhóm cc excessive fat /lk'sesw/: chat béo du
thìra

51