GIẢI BỘ ĐỂ DỰ ĐOÁN IELTS SPEAKING Q3 2023 - PART 2

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
HƯỚNG DẪN SỬ DỤNG TÀI LIỆU ....................................................................................... 5
TOPIC 1: PERSON .................................................................................................................... 7
1. Describe a person to whom you are very close in your family .............................................. 8
2. Describe a popular person (who) you know ........................................................................... 9
3. Describe an irritating colleague ............................................................................................ 10
4. Describe an old friend you got in contact with again ........................................................... 10
5. Describe a person who just moved into your community and brought positive influence .. 11
6. Describe a person you know who likes to help others ......................................................... 12
7. Describe a person who enjoys cooking for others ................................................................ 13
8. Describe a foreigner you know who speaks your language (Vietnamese) well ................... 14
9. Describe someone you don’t know but would like to know more about ............................. 15
10. Describe a person who has interesting ideas and opinions ................................................... 15
TOPIC 2: OBJECT .................................................................................................................. 19
1. Describe an old present that is special to you ....................................................................... 20
2. Describe the type of clothes that you usually (like to) wear ................................................ 20
3. Describe an expensive gift that you want to give someone if you save a lot of money ....... 21
4. Describe a product you want to buy from a foreign country ................................................ 22
5. Describe a book you want to read again ............................................................................... 23
6. Describe a traditional costume that you like ........................................................................ 24
7. Describe a photo that makes you feel happy ........................................................................ 25
8. Describe an impressive work of art you saw ........................................................................ 26
TOPIC 3: EVENT .................................................................................................................... 29
1. Describe a time when you saw a child behaved badly in public ........................................... 30
2. Describe a time when you encouraged someone to do something that he/she didn’t want to
do ........................................................................................................................................... 31
3. Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing .................................... 32
4. Describe a time when you had a problem with using a computer ........................................ 33
5. Describe a time when you spent time with a child ................................................................ 33
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6. Describe an occasion when you received incorrect information .......................................... 34
7. Describe a situation when you had to spend a long time in traffic jam ................................ 35
8. Describe an occasion when you got lost ............................................................................... 36
TOPIC 4: ACTIVITY .............................................................................................................. 40
1. Describe an expensive activity that you enjoy doing occasionally ....................................... 41
2. Describe a water sport you would like to try in the future .................................................... 41
3. Describe an activity that made you feel tired ........................................................................ 42
4. Describe an activity that you enjoy doing alone in your free time ....................................... 43
5. Describe a leisure activity you do with your family ............................................................. 44
6. Describe a game you played in your childhood .................................................................... 45
TOPIC 5: PLACE .................................................................................................................... 49
1. Describe a place away from your home and you want to visit in the future ......................... 50
2. Describe a favorite place in your house where you can relax. .............................................. 51
3. Describe a perfect/dream house you saw (an ideal house/ apartment where you want to live)
.............................................................................................................................................. 52
4. Describe a place you want to visit with you friends or family in the future ......................... 53
5. Describe a park or a garden in your city ............................................................................... 54
6. Describe a new store/shop that just opened in your area ...................................................... 55
7. Describe a crowded place you have been to ......................................................................... 56
8. Describe an open-air or street market which you enjoy visiting ........................................... 57
9. Describe a place in your country that you are interested in .................................................. 58
TOPIC 6: OTHERS ................................................................................................................. 62
1. Describe a skill you can teach others .................................................................................... 63
2. Describe a happy experience in your childhood that you remember well ............................ 64
3. Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study that you felt proud of ............... 65
4. Describe an invention that changed people's lives ................................................................ 66
5. Describe something you would like to learn in the future .................................................... 67
6. Describe an important text message you received ................................................................ 68
7. Describe a job you think is interesting .................................................................................. 69
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8. Describe a rule that is important at your school or work ..................................................... 70
9. Describe a long car journey you went on ............................................................................. 71
10. Describe an interesting talk or speech .................................................................................. 72
11. Describe a sport you enjoyed watching ................................................................................ 73
12. Describe a movie you watched that disappointed about....................................................... 74
13. Describe an exciting adventure you would like to go on ..................................................... 75
14. Describe an important decision ............................................................................................ 76
15. Describe a good advertisement that you think is useful ....................................................... 77
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HƯỚNG DẪN SỬ DỤNG TÀI LIỆU
Tài liệu này sẽ đưa ra các câu trả lời mẫu cho 56 câu hỏi Speaking Part 2 được chia thành 6 chủ
đề trong bộ đề dự đoán quý 3 năm 2023 của học viện IELTS Xuân Phi cũng như chọn lọc 175
cụm từ vựng hay theo từng chủ đề để giúp bạn đa dạng vốn từ vựng trong bài nói của mình.
Trong mỗi chủ đề sẽ có các mục như sau:
• Câu hỏi trong chủ đề + Câu trả lời mẫu.
• Bảng các từ vựng hay đi kèm với nghĩa tiếng Việt.
Cách sử dụng tài liệu:

• Bước 1: Tự brainstorm ý tưởng cho câu trả lời của mình.
• Bước 2: Đọc câu trả lời mẫu.
• Bước 3: Tham khảo ý tưởng và ghi chép từ vựng ở bài mẫu phù hợp với ý tưởng của bản
thân.
• Bước 4: Tự brainstorm lại ý tưởng dựa trên những ý tưởng tham khảo và từ vựng mới đã
học được. (Chú ý: chỉ ghi từ 5-6 từ khóa, không ghi cả câu)
• Bước 5: Ôn tập lại bảng từ vựng ở cuối mỗi chủ đề.
Để học nhanh, nhớ lâu chúng ta sẽ sử dụng ứng dụng Cram. Bạn có thể tải ứng dụng Cram về
điện thoại hoặc học trực tiếp trên học trực tiếp trên website: https://www.cram.com/
Link hướng dẫn sử dụng ứng dụng Cram trên điện thoại: https://youtu.be/oiGjG7zKnL4
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Cách học: Bạn có thể ấn trực tiếp vào đường link dưới mỗi chủ đề hoặc thực hiện các bước như
sau:
• Bước 1: Tải ứng dụng Cram về điện thoại hoặc học trực tiếp trên website bằng cách copy
đường link sau và paste vào trình duyệt web của bạn: https://www.cram.com/
• Bước 2: Tìm từ khóa “Giải bộ đề dự đoán IELTS Speaking Q3/2023 Part 2_Topic …”
Ví dụ “Giải bộ đề dự đoán IELTS Speaking Q3/2023 Part 2_Topic 1”.
• Bước 3: Nhấn vào ô “Search” để tìm kiếm.
• Bước 4: Trong các kết quả hiện ra, chọn đúng bộ từ vựng để học từ.
Chúc các bạn học tập thật tốt!
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TOPIC 1:
PERSON
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1. Describe a person to whom you are very close in your family
You should say:
• What relation this person is to you
• What this person looks like
• What kind of person he/she is
And explain why you like this person.
Out of everyone in my family, the one I’m closest to is probably my uncle Minh. I resemble him
more than anyone else in the family: same brown eyes, stubby nose, fair skin, and black hair -
though we all have that of course. He’s about ten centimeters taller than me and he has a
pronounced scar on his leg thanks to a nasty motorcycle accident he had a few years back. In
terms of his temperament, he’s different from me - normally, he’s rather aloof, doesn’t talk
much, even with close family. Also, he can be brutally honest, really, really frank, with his
opinions to the point he offends a lot of people. However, once you get to know him, my uncle
can be friendly and chatty, especially when it comes to the topic of anime - he’s a diehard and
can rattle shows and plotlines off the top of his head.
One of the clearest memories I have when it comes to my uncle is the time when he took me on
a motorcycle trip around the outskirts of the city. I was there running an errand and he invited
me to ride around with him on the back. He owns a black vintage Triumph motorcycle - a really
nice, classic looking style. Once I got on the bike, put on my helmet, and we got out of the heart
of the city, it was cool and I felt like I was part of a biker gang. There wasn’t much in the way
of sights but the drive itself was cool.
I like spending time with my uncle because he’s laid back and we just get on really well. We
never lack for topics of discussion.
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2. Describe a popular person (who) you know
You should say:
• Who this person is
• What this person does
• How you know him or her
And explain why you think they are popular.
One of our most celebrated national icons is footballer Nguyen Cong Phuong. He plays for the
Vietnam national football team as well as Hoang Anh Gia Lai Club as a striker, meaning that he
is responsible for putting the ball back to the net. However, Vietnamese people mostly know
him for his performances for the national team since Vietnamese club football is not particularly
popular. During his tenure in the national team, he has helped them win the 2018 AFF
Championship as well as make it to the quarter-finals of the 2019 Asian Cup, which were pretty
impressive considering how they are not typically one of the best national teams in Asia. Cong
Phuong is often compared to the legendary Lionel Messi due to their similar physique and style
of play, as they both swiftly cut through the defense and score goals.
Nguyen Cong Phuong is considered a popular figure in Vietnam because not only his footballing
skills are superlative but also because of how instrumental he was in elevating the prestige of
the national team. His performances alone have brought the team to a whole new level on the
international stage, so much so that native non-football fans are now paying attention to how the
team is performing in Asian and global competitions. As for myself, I quite like seeing Cong
Phuong running on the pitch and clinically scoring goals to boost our national pride. I also like
how he is a nice guy off the field, as shown by how he takes the time to greet the fans as well as
give money to various local charities to help those who are financially disadvantaged.
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3. Describe an irritating colleague
You should say:
• Who is he/she
• How you know him/her
• What he/she does
And explain why you think he/she is an irritating person.
In one of my previous jobs working as an ordinary office worker at an accounting firm, I had an
especially annoying colleague who really stuck out - for all the wrong reasons - named Peter.
He was a junior accountant who worked with the software companies, insurance firms and banks
we had signed as an intermediary. At one point, he even scored an account with Apple, doing
some of their international accounting for about a year. Honestly, a stroke of luck in my opinion
but it really bugged him up. We worked in completely separate divisions, but we’d almost always
cross paths because our cubicles weren’t that far apart - to my great dismay. We’d also often see
each other during lunch break at the company cafeteria - I’d do my best to avoid sitting with
him. Every once in a while, we’d make small talk but not for long.
We didn’t get along at all. He was insufferable really. For one, he was in the bad habit of burping
loudly in public. His burps were so loud and so frequent that it drove me and my co-workers
nuts - we’d give him side-eye all the time but he never picked up on it. We eventually started to
tell him to stop over and over but it had no effect - it emboldened him even. For another, he’d
often stick his nose in other people’s business. I think he’d butt in because of a compulsive
tendency to be the center of attention - he’d always interrupt conversations and chime in with
his thoughts without any prompting.
4. Describe an old friend you got in contact with again

You should say:
• Who he or she is
• What he or she is like
• How you got in contact
And explain how you felt about it.
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I recently caught up with an old friend of mine named Devin who I hadn’t seen in ages. He used
to go to the same school as me and we were both in the same class - 2015. Right now, he’s
working for an engineering company based in San Francisco and is happily married (as far as I
can tell). When we first met at school, I didn’t talk to him right away since he used to tease me
because I was really shy and introverted back then. I’d just ignore his jabs and get on with my
day. However, he grew out of that phase and I started to be more confident and vocal and
eventually he made an effort to strike up a friendship. Since then, we’ve been thick as thieves
and we’re both big football fans so that’s something for us to chat about.
I got in back contact with Devin just by chance. I was grabbing a coffee in a café on a chilled -
out Sunday afternoon and by complete coincidence he strolled in to get a coffee. When he caught
sight of me, he beamed and rushed over to greet me. We caught up about what had been going
on in our lives since we last saw each other. I told him that I was working as an auditor for
KPMG and I was living in an apartment just around the corner - just getting by, to be honest. He
told me about settling down in San Francisco and how he met his wife. It was cool to get that
chance to get back in touch and since then we’ve messaged a bit but I doubt we’ll ever be close
friends again unless he moves back to Vietnam or I go live and work in The Bay Area.
5. Describe a person who just moved into your community and brought positive influence
You should say:
• When and where this person moved to your community
• How you know this person
And explain how you feel about this person.
Just last month we had a new neighbor move in named Jack. He is a more or less retired
shopkeeper at a nearby convenience store just a few hundred metres from my house and he lives
just as close to me as well. He’s currently 65 years old and he moved to the neighborhood
because he just retired and he was looking for some peace and quiet in his later years. He’s been
a real positive influence on the community over the years not only selling things people need at
any given moment but also by having a positive attitude - helping to uplift the community. As
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such, many people in the neighborhood see him as a sort of father figure and look to him in times
of need.
I got to know Jack visiting his shop dozens of times and having little chats with him all the times
I dropped by. He told me that prior to moving to my neighborhood, he used to be a car salesman
in another city for over 30 years or so I think but he had aspirations of opening up a convenience
store after retiring to keep himself busy and have flexible hours. Sometimes he would
recommend me new snacks or drinks to me and he was pretty spot on most of the time. I overall
enjoy having Jack as a neighbour because of his positive outlook on life and the easy-going way
he has approached retirement. Hopefully he’ll stay in the neighborhood for a very long time and
enjoy his retirement to the fullest.
6. Describe a person you know who likes to help others

You should say:
• How you know them him or her
• What kind of person he or she is
And explain why this person likes to help others.
I’ve got a person in mind named Quang Linh who has a remarkable passion for helping others.
While some just take advantage of volunteer work to feel good about themselves or balance out
their bad deeds, Quang Linh’s genuine empathy is apparent right off the bat to everyone who
watches his videos.
Quang Linh is a passionate content creator known for his entertaining and informative videos.
He’s got a charismatic personality and a knack for storytelling and has gained a significant
following by sharing his experiences, adventures, and insights through his vlog. I first came
across one of his videos a couple weeks back and did a deep dive on all his old stuff after that.
He’s not only a successful content creator but also a dedicated individual who actively engages
in philanthropist work, using his platform and influence to make a positive impact on his local
community. One of his most impressive achievements is in Africa. Here, he has actively
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participated in initiatives such as building schools, providing educational resources, and
organizing scholarships for underprivileged students. These efforts have been empowering
young minds and contributing to the development of future generations in a continent that still
lags behind other parts of the world in key indicators for quality of life.
Overall, Quang Linh's involvement in education and various charitable causes showcases his
dedication to making a meaningful impact on society. Through his actions and advocacy, he
truly serves as an inspiration to others including me, demonstrating that even small acts of
kindness and charity can create significant change and contribute to building a better world.
7. Describe a person who enjoys cooking for others

You should say:
• What he/she likes to cook
• Who he/she cooks for
And explain why he/she enjoys cooking.
I used to live in a neighborhood with a fairly diverse population relative to other areas. There
were people from many different countries living together ranging from some Japanese and
Indians to Mexicans and Africans. Every Sunday, we’d have a neighborhood get-together - a
block party almost - where everyone brings their own food and drink. While all of us would
bring this or that decent dish, there was one person’s food that we were most excited to eat and
that was Alberta’s.
Alberta was an American who had moved to my neighborhood for work and she enjoyed cooking
comfort food from the Southern United States like fried chicken, waffles, oxtail, sweet potatoes
and collard greens since she is originally from that region. She told me that she was taught these
recipes as a child by her mother and they’d been in the family for generations - takes on regional
specialties. Alberta really relished cooking for others - I think it was, still is I’m sure, one of the
great pleasures in her life. Also, she once told me she wanted people to experience the food from
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her region as not many are all that familiar with it. Not the healthiest food I’d concede but really
good and memorable.
She also once mentioned to me that she really loves the process of whipping up dishes - I could
tell she was a very hands-on person. I think she was successful in the time she lived in my
neighborhood in bringing some southern flair to our corner of the globe.
8. Describe a foreigner you know who speaks your language (Vietnamese) well
You should say:
• Where he/she is from
• How he/she learns Vietnamese
And explain why he/she can speak Vietnamese well.
I once had an American boss named Jack who could speak Vietnamese very well - really
surprisingly well, in fact. I was working for his company - an import / export firm in Hanoi and
my job was basically to be a lowly intern. More specifically, I was assigned the boss’s junior
secretary, which more or less entailed arranging meetings, filing paperwork and contacting
clients on the boss’s behalf. If there’s one thing I didn’t need to do, it was to be an interpreter
because Jack was fluent enough in Vietnamese to get by conversationally, more so than most of
my foreigner friends.
Jack moved to Vietnam in the mid-1990s from somewhere in the American Midwest I believe.
Prior to that, he had worked in Montana and California in the agriculture industry as a middleman
for large retail chains like Walmart and Target. When I asked him how he had become so adept
in Vietnamese, he told me that he had lived in the country for almost 25 years and just picked it
up in the course of having daily conversations with locals. Sometimes he’d attend a more
structured Vietnamese class but most of the time, it came about naturally. He told me that the
best way to learn a language is to actually practice it with native speakers in real communicative
contexts. I’ve taken his advice to heart though it’s tricky to immerse myself in English since I’m
not living abroad.
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9. Describe someone you don’t know but would like to know more about
You should say:
• How you knew him/her
• What interesting things he/she has done
And explain why you want to know more about him/her.
I once met a woman named Abby at a function for environmental protection some years back.
We met and chatted briefly before she left the function a few hours before it was supposed to
end. From what I can remember from our conversation - it’s been a while - she told me she was
a zoologist for the Wildlife Conservation Society in the UK. She specialized in tracing the origins
of various primates - monkeys, gorillas, chimpanzees and what not - and also making
governmental recommendations concerning conservation strategies. Looking back on it, I see
her as following in the footsteps of Jane Goodall. In fact, she told me she was inspired by Goodall
to engage in work and awareness-raising concerning the welfare of primates.
Even though our conversation was short, it did inspire me to learn more about her so I went on
the Internet and researched a little bit about her work. It turns out that she is currently the project
coordinator for a couple of conservation projects in Africa relating to the protection of
endangered primates. Those projects have been successful in reviving dwindling population
figures for chimpanzees, lemurs, gorillas and baboons. Abby has also been awarded numerous
prizes for her work from the WWF and Greenpeace - all very impressive stuff.
I wanted to know more about Abby because I found her work to be very outside the norm and
fascinating. I’m an animal lover myself and want to see all animals flourish and to see someone
doing that kind of work for the betterment of nature is really inspiring to me. Hopefully I can
meet her someday to go more in-depth on some wildlife conservation efforts and to figure out
ways I might be able to contribute.
10. Describe a person who has interesting ideas and opinions

You should say:
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• How you know this person
• What interesting ideas/opinions he/she
And explain you think why his/her ideas are interesting.
I have a friend - a colleague actually - Jake - who has really weird, out-of-the-box opinions on
everything. I’m a software engineer and Jake is in marketing - some kind of executive I believe.
We often meet up around lunch or after work to hang out and so I can pick his brain about a
bunch of zany topics. For example, he always rants about how AI will spell the doom of
humanity by taking away jobs and becoming self-aware to the point where it can overthrow
humanity. That’s not such an odd opinion actually - I’ve heard people parrot those ideas a ton
of times. He also goes on about how the Earth is actually flat, not round. He presented me with
so-called ‘evidence’ of the Earth being flat - he’s a flat-earther, so that tells you a lot about him.
However, by far the most controversial and subversive opinion Jake has is the fact that there
should be no national governments at all and instead countries should be run by corporations.
Individuals would therefore have to fend for themselves yet they would be free to do whatever
they wanted to do. This is a very libertarian, almost anarchist proposal. He believes that the
concept of a government severely limits personal and financial freedom and thus shouldn’t exist.
Even though I massively disagree with this opinion, I still find it interesting because it sort of
reveals how Jake values personal freedom above all else, perhaps a bit to the extreme. I just hope
he never gets a position of authority beyond doing some marketing for our company.
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❖ Vocabulary:
WORD MEANING
Rattle something off Nói một tràng dài
Be instrumental in Đóng vai trò quan trọng
Temperament Tính khí
Much to someone's dismay Rất buồn, rất thất vọng
Laid - back Thư thái, ung dung
On the spot Ngay lập tức
Embolden Làm cho bạo dạn
To the fullest Trọn vẹn, trân trọng hết mức có thể
Right off the bat Ngay từ ban đầu
A deep dive on Nghiên cứu kĩ lưỡng về
Philanthropist work Công việc từ thiện
Lag behind Tụt hậu so với ai đó.
In times of need Trong những lúc cần thiết
Pick someone's brain Tham khảo ý kiến
Intermediary Bên trung gian
Cross someone's path Tình cờ gặp
Side-eye Vẻ mặt tỏ ý nghi ngờ, khinh bỉ
Pick up on Nhận ra điều gì
Chime in Tham gia
Out-of-the-box Đặc biệt, đáng chú ý
Parrot Nhại lại
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WORD MEANING
Subversive Lật đổ
Fend for yourself Tự bảo vệ mình
Spell the doom Gieo rắc sự diệt vong
Betterment Sự tiến bộ
Follow in someone's footsteps Làm theo gương ai
Have a knack for Có tài
Stick your nose into something Chĩa mũi vào chuyện người khác
Revive Hồi sinh
Specialize in Chuyên về
Take something to heart Để bụng/để trong lòng
Whip something up Chuẩn bị nhanh thứ gì đó để ăn
Run an errand Chạy việc vặt
Stick something out Tiếp tục làm gì đó dù khó khăn.
Block party Bữa tiệc đường phố
Link Cram: https://www.cram.com/flashcards/gii-b-d-d-doan-ielts-speaking-q3-2023-part-2-

topic-1-13909661
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TOPIC 2:
OBJECT
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1. Describe an old present that is special to you
You should say:
• What this possession is
• How long you have had it
• Where it came from
And explain why this possession is special to you.
On Christmas Day five years back, I got a sweater from my aunt - a wool one that she had knitted
and decorated herself. The sweater was white all around except for the front where it was
emblazoned with the shape of a red bird - a sparrow - the kind that’s all around the neighborhood
where she lives. So, I guess that’s where she got the inspiration and references. It looks rather
beat up with strands of wool sticking out, but that gives it a rustic look and it’s really warm. I’ve
still got it to this day and it has aged well since it looked old from the beginning.
Like I said before, I got this sweater five years ago so I’ve had it for that long. I normally wear
this sweater in the winter since it gets pretty cold where I come from. Temperatures around this
time usually dip to around 10 - 12 degrees Celsius - just cold enough for a light sweater indoors.
Other than that, I hardly wear it since there’s no need in other seasons here in Vietnam. I enjoy
wearing the sweater since not only is it very warm but it also has sentimental value. I admire the
fact that she knits her own clothing and makes all her own presents - that personal touch is
meaningful. Outside of holidays, she’s always giving me little scarfs and mittens so I can save
money.
2. Describe the type of clothes that you usually (like to) wear
You should say:
• What type of clothes
• Where you usually buy these clothes
• How you choose what to buy
And explain why you like this style of clothes.
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Today I would like to talk about a jacket which is my favorite choice of clothing for regular
wear. If my memory serves me right, I got it just about a year back. At the time, it was my 18th
birthday and Linh - one of my best buddies - decided to take me by surprise and gave it to me.
To be more specific, it’s a white windbreaker with a heart-shaped pattern along the sleeves. It’s
polyester - lightweight and water-resistant fabric so good for rainy overcast days when it isn’t
that chilly.
There are several reasons why I have a thing for this jacket. First of all, it has an attractive design
so it adds a touch of fashion to my overall appearance and classes me up a bit. Another great
feature of this jacket is that it is neither too thick nor too thin so I can wear it comfortably in
various weather conditions - breezy days, long hikes, drizzling rain, etc. On hot days it's more
about keeping me out of the sun so I won’t get burned. Besides, its white so it’s easy to mix and
match with whatever else I’ve got on - jeans, a floral dress... On top of all that, it’s a reminder
of my friendship with Linh, so I really cherish it.
Needless to say, I wear this jacket on a near-daily basis and it has become an essential item
whenever I head out of my house to school or on errands. It not only serves a functional purpose
but also makes me look good. All in all, this windbreaker is definitely up there with some of the
best gifts I’ve ever received.
3. Describe an expensive gift that you want to give someone if you save a lot of money
You should say:
• What the gift was
• Who you gave it to
• Why you gave it
And explain whether this person liked the gift or not.
If I were to set aside a substantial amount of money and wanted to give someone a pricey gift,
one idea that comes to mind is a luxurious and stylish wristwatch. Imagine gifting a Rolex
Submariner, a renowned Swiss watch known for its timeless design - that would be so fantastic.
21
Its precision, durability, and the attention to detail are what make it a coveted item that you can
hold onto your whole life or even treat as an investment.
I want to give my mom this watch since a luxury watch like a Rolex showcases not just a person’s
status; it signifies the appreciation and admiration you have for them. For me, it represents a
recognition of their accomplishments, a tribute to their good taste, and a desire to give them
something extraordinary. It’s functional still too - barely with smartphones and all - but mostly
it's for the aesthetics.
Another worthy feature of a luxury wristwatch is that it often becomes an heirloom that can be
passed down through the generations. That’s why the timepiece carries with it a sense of legacy
and timelessness, serving as a lasting reminder of your relationship and the special bond with
the recipient. I think my mom would love to get one from me even if she never really wears it
except on formal occasions.
Ultimately, gifting an expensive wristwatch like a Rolex appeals to me because it’s a

combination of refined craftsmanship, prestige, and the sentiment of a meaningful and lasting
gift. If I can save up the funds needed - maybe take out an extra mortgage on my house - I’ll
definitely get it for her.
4. Describe a product you want to buy from a foreign country

You should say:
• What product it is
• When you want to buy it
• Whether it has any special features
And explain why you want to buy it.
One product I’ve had my eye on for a while is a wheel of parmesan cheese. Everyone knows
parmesan - it’s made in Italy and is known for its crumbly texture and typically it’s a topping on
pizza and pasta. It’s one of the more famous ingredients in Italian cuisine and I really love the
earthy taste. When I found out that it comes in a wheel, it blew my mind because that means that
22
I can get a year’s supply of cheese all at once, haha. The wheel itself is of a brownish yellow
color and the surface - the rind I think it’s called - is smooth, maybe a bit grainy, to the touch.
I hope to buy a parmesan wheel before the end of the month because I’m planning a big dinner
party with some friends from work soonish. I’m hoping to make some Caesar salads topped with
parmesan cheese, a T-bone steak for the main served with roast potatoes, vegetables and gravy
and for dessert a tiramisu. Having the big wheel there is like a decoration all on its own too and
people can shave off the cheese they want for their salads.
5. 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.
The book I would love to read again is "The Silence of the Lambs" by Thomas Harris. It’s a
thrilling psychological novel that follows Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee, as she seeks assistance
from the notorious serial killer Hannibal Lecter to apprehend another dangerous murderer called
Buffalo Bill.
I was initially drawn to "The Silence of the Lambs" due to its reputation as a gripping and
suspenseful novel. I’ve always been fascinated by stories that delve into the depths of the human
mind - particularly the darker parts - and explore the intricacies of psychological suspense. This
book offered a captivating narrative that kept me engrossed from beginning to end.
From reading "The Silence of the Lambs," I gained a deeper understanding of the complexity of
human psychology and the thin line that separates good from evil. The book provided insights
into the chilling nature of psychopaths and delved into themes such as manipulation, obsession,
and the relentless pursuit of justice. It made me ponder the depths of the human psyche and the
moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Most people come away from the book with sympathy
and admiration for Lecter, an odd feeling to reconcile with his actions.
23
I would like to reread it since it is a page-turner that skillfully builds suspense. By revisiting the
book, I hope to relieve the thrilling moments and uncover subtleties that may have escaped my
attention during the initial reading. Additionally, I believe that a second reading would allow me
to appreciate the author’s storytelling techniques, character development, and the intricate plot
twists in a more profound way. Plus, I’ve watched the movie since and want to compare them
when I read it a second time.
6. Describe a traditional costume that you like

You should say:
• What it is
• What it looks like
• How often you wear it
And explain why you enjoy wearing it.
A traditional costume I enjoy wearing from time to time is the kimono. It’s a traditional garment
from Japan and is mostly worn on traditional holidays or special occasions, often by women but
sometimes by men. It consists of a long robe with an opening at the front tied together by a wide
sash that goes around the waist. Draped over the robe is a thin jacket that is just as long, although
this configuration is mainly worn by the men. A kimono is usually woven from natural materials
such as silk and hemp, although synthetic materials such as polyester may be used as well for
cheaper, mass-produced ones. It’s also usually embroidered with floral patterns, typically
featuring the native flora and fauna of Japan. However, some kimonos may feature no patterns
at all and only feature a single, flat colour like green or blue.
I work for a Japanese firm based in my hometown, so they gave me a kimono as a present one
year. I don’t wear it all that often though since it is not particularly comfortable for everyday
purposes. However, I do wear it during company celebrations or Japanese holidays like the
Lunar New Year or Japanese national day. I like wearing a kimono because I like its dignified
style and feel. It’s not ostentatious and doesn’t make a spectacle of itself; it’s just a garment to
be simply worn on an auspicious occasion.
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7. Describe a photo that makes you feel happy
You should say:
• What the photo looks like
• When and where you took this photo
• How often you look at the photo
And explain why it makes you feel happy.
The photo that never fails to make me smile is from way back - my high school graduation
ceremony. It's a snapshot that brings back a flood of happy memories. In the photo, I'm all
dressed up in the iconic graduation gown, complete with a funny-looking, square cap. Standing
alongside me is my closest friend, and we both have these huge grins on our faces. We're holding
our diplomas like they're the most precious things in the world - which they were at the time. In
the background, a bunch of our fellow graduates share in the jubilation, creating a festive feel
for the photo.
This photo was taken a few years ago, on a sunny June morning, right in the school courtyard, a
place where we’d had so many great times. The atmosphere that day was electric, and everyone
was buzzing as we prepared to step up on stage, get our diplomas and embark on a new chapter
of life. I don't look at this photo all that regularly, but I've got it a special place in an album of
important moments from my life. It's one of those pictures that I revisit to feel nostalgic or when
I need a reminder of what determination and hard work can achieve. It gives me a pick-me-up.
This photo means the world to me because it marks a huge milestone in my life. It's a reminder
of all those late-night study sessions, cramming until nearly dawn, the challenges we faced, and
the incredible sense of accomplishment we felt that day. But more than anything, it's a symbol
of the bonds of friendship that got us through high school life together. My best friend and I
were like partners in crime, and this photo captures that sense of camaraderie perfectly. It's visual
proof that hard work pays off, and it fills me with a profound sense of pride and happiness every
time I take it out to look at it.
25
8. Describe an impressive work of art you saw
You should say:
• Where you first saw the artist
• What the painting shows
• Who the painter is
And explain why you enjoy it.
To be honest, I’m not an art aficionado in any way so I rarely make a point of heading out to
exhibitions or museums, you know. So, I don’t know all that much about paintings. But today
I’m gonna tell you about a time I came across a piece of art online that left a huge impression
on me. It was a painting by a female artist who has really distinctive, unruly red hair. I don’t
remember her name because I’m lousy with names but I do remember the work. I saw her video
several months ago killing time on Facebook. In the video, she replicates the same oil painting
in 3 different time spans, 1 hour, 10 hours, and 100 hours. That’s the concept.
The painting is called "The Swordsman''. It depicts a soldier kneeling next to an enormous old
tree and behind him are hundreds of swords sticking out of the ground. The way I see it, it’s
about the aftermath of war and the consequences: one man lives but his comrades have all
fallen. She had to create this painting within those 3 different time durations. And the more time
she had, the more complicated the painting got. In particular, the tree bark patterns on the tree
got more shading and sophistication. Also, the layering of colors became more complex
gradually and it brought out a new depth, a greater sense of weight and space. I admire this
artwork not only for the visual impact but also for the creativity of the painter as she invented a
completely new approach to painting which transcends traditional art spaces and reaches global
audiences through the internet. That might be a bit much but it was a cool video.
26
❖ Vocabulary:
WORD MEANING
Have your eye on something Muốn có thứ gì
Blow someone's mind Khiến ai thấy rất ấn tượng
Delve into something Nghiên cứu kĩ lưỡng
Dilemma Tình huống tiến thoái lưỡng nan
Page-turner Cuốn sách thú vị, đáng đọc
Embroider Thêu
Partner in crime Anh chị em, bạn bè chí cốt
Camaraderie Tình bạn, tình đồng chí
Kneel Quỳ gối
Art aficionado Người đam mê nghệ thuật
Lousy with something Đầy rẫy, lắm, nhiều
Grin Cười toe toét
Ostentatious Khoe khoang, phô trương
Heirloom Vật gia truyền
Pass down Truyền lại
Pay off Thành công
Auspicious Đầy hứa hẹn
Suspense Tình trạng chờ đợi
Embark on Bắt tay vào
Covet Thèm muốn
Signify Báo hiệu
27
WORD MEANING
Bring back Làm nhớ lại
A flood of happy memories Tràn ngập ký ức hạnh phúc
Be a tribute to Là kết quả của
Pick-me-up Đồ uống kích thích
Mark a milestone Đánh dấu một cột mốc quan trọng
Electric Sôi nổi, náo nhiệt
Kill time/ an hour Giết thời gian, làm việc khác trong thời
gian chờ đợi.
Transcend Vượt quá
Leave an impression on Để lại ấn tượng
Cram Luyện thi
Replicate Sao chép
Head out to Đi đến
A reminder of someone/something Sự gợi nhớ về
Jubilation Sự vui mừng

topic-2-13909668
28
TOPIC 3:
EVENT
29
1. Describe a time when you saw a child behaved badly in public
You should say:
• Where it happened
• What the child was doing
• How others reacted to it
One time a while back I was out at a park close to my house having a picnic with my friends - a
Sunday afternoon, I think. We were all having convenience store sandwiches and green tea
and laying on a blanket on the grass. It was a sunny summer day and the park was in full bloom.
So, a chilled-out day but I do remember an annoying kid near us.
He was throwing a tantrum and throwing small pebbles at strangers, including other children as
well. I know because I was one of his victims. He then proceeded to run over to our picnic and
started kicking lightly at us. It didn’t hurt but it was annoying nonetheless. His parents then took
him away and apologized profusely to us for his bad behaviour. They explained to us that he
was acting out because they left his favourite toy at home.
I’d say that the other people in the park didn’t take kindly to the kid’s antics from what I could
tell. They were saying that the kid needs to be reined in by his parents and the parents did feel
ashamed judging from their faces. I felt kinda bad for them as they have such an unruly child to
deal with but maybe some of that is on them as well - it’s really hard to know and to judge from
afar. The same cannot be said for the kid though. I felt that he had disrupted such a nice occasion
though even in that case, it’s not really fair to hold a child to the same standards as an adult. Kids
sometimes have poor impulse control - almost always actually.
30
2. Describe a time when you encouraged someone to do something that he/she didn’t want
to do
You should say:
• Who he or she is
• What you encouraged him/her to do
• How he/she reacted
And explain why you encouraged him/her.
I remember one time having to convince my friend Kevin to go skydiving with me - it was an
ordeal. He’s a carpenter with his own shop close to my house and he is deathly afraid of heights.
Kevin told me that as a child he developed a phobia after seeing a man fall from a 10-storey
building and get all messed up. As such, he never once went to the top of a tower or flew in a
plane. However, I managed to convince him to skydive after telling him that it would be safe
and fun and he could overcome his fear. I had to tell him that more than once.
So, we drove out to an airfield to meet with another friend named Dave who also skydives - he’s
an instructor. We prepared our gear - harnesses and a parachute - got on the plane and took off.
By the time we got to about 5,000 meters in the air, me, Kevin and Dave jumped out of the plane
and waited for our parachutes to open. I remember Kevin was screaming his head off because
he was so high up and falling so fast that he thought he might die. However, being the trained
skydivers that we are, Dave and I assured him that the parachute always opens and it did so when
we got to around 800 meters above the ground. When we landed, Kevin was visibly shaken but
he was so happy that he had made it out alive he hugged me really really tightly before thanking
me for the experience.
I encouraged Kevin to go skydiving because I thought it would be a nice challenge for him to
overcome his fear and to give him a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I do believe that at some
point, we all need to face our fears and become stronger people by conquering them. That’s kind
of obvious to say but hard in reality to actually embrace.
31
3. Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing
You should say:
• When it happened
• How long you waited
• Why you waited for a long time
And explain how you felt about the experience.
I hate waiting. I guess everyone does but it seems to drive me in particular up the wall. I
remember one time when I had to make a decision whether or not to wait for a delivery on
Shopee.
In case you don’t know, Shopee is a popular e-commerce platform in Vietnam, which provides
consumers with a variety of products at very reasonable shipping fees. You probably see the
delivery drivers dumping off stuff at apartment building lobbies all the time. Around three years
ago I needed some skincare products to deal with chronic skin irritation so I went on Shopee and
bought some cream from Shiseido to treat my problem. It set me back around 10 dollars.
Originally it was supposed to arrive in 5 days but unfortunately, the shipping time was longer
than expected due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a consequence, although I debated internally
canceling my order, I ultimately decided to wait for it because I desperately needed the product.
It was a frustrating experience but I think the long wait was worth it. After 2 weeks, I finally
received my order and my skin condition has improved since then and I’ve reordered it a couple
times.
Through this experience, I learned a valuable lesson in patience because as long as we are
persistent enough to wait for something, we have a good chance of getting what we want. I guess
I knew that before this experience but it did drive the point home.
32
4. Describe a time when you had a problem with using a computer
You should say:
• When it happened
• Where it happened
• What the problem was
And explain how you solved the problem.
I remember a specific moment when my computer broke down. It happened around two years
ago - I was working at home thanks to a city-wide quarantine because of COVID. I was going
about my day when all of a sudden, my computer started lagging seriously and then just
completely froze. I restarted it a few times but no luck. Eventually I had to stop my work and
take my computer to a repair shop just right around the corner from my house. The owner said
that he’d have to take a day or two to figure out what the problem was and then let me know if
he could fix it.
The next morning, I got a message from the repair shop owner telling me to come down because
he had figured out what the problem was and it was fixed already. The owner told me the
problem was that the main processor chip was being overworked - overloaded because it was
outdated and I was running too many apps at one - and so it shut itself down, causing my
computer to freeze up. Fortunately, the owner replaced the old chip with a newer one, one with
better processing power that could ensure smoother operation and little lag. The new chip didn’t
cost much to install - just about 50 dollars. When I switched it on, it ran pretty smoothly and I
haven’t had any major issues with it since.
5. Describe a time when you spent time with a child

You should say:
• Who the child is
• How you know him/her
• Why you spent time with him/her
And explain what you did when you were together.
33
Today, I’d like to talk about a time I taught my niece and how it was a rewarding experience for
me - and her, I hope.
If I’m not mistaken, it was just a few months back when my niece, Sarah, had a school break.
At the time, she was struggling with her reading skills, and her mother reached out to me for
help. I gladly offered to set aside some time with her to assist her in improving her reading skills.
We decided to meet twice a week for an hour-long session.
During our sessions, I did my best to foster a structured learning environment that was also fun
and engaging for Sarah. I started by assessing her current reading level and then identifying the
areas where she needed the most support. I utilized various teaching methods, such as using
colorful flashcards, playing interactive online games, and reading aloud together. Moreover, I
provided lots of positive reinforcement and praise for her efforts, which boosted her confidence
and motivation.
As the weeks went by, Sarah's reading skills showed significant improvement. She began to read
more fluently and with better overall comprehension. Her mother noticed the positive changes
and expressed her gratitude for my help. She shared how Sarah's newfound confidence in reading
had positively impacted her overall academic performance and self-esteem as a result.
Receiving such positive feedback from Sarah's mother was incredibly rewarding. It validated
the time and effort I had put into teaching and mentoring her. Witnessing Sarah’s progress and
knowing that I had made a positive impact on her educational journey really made my day and
I hope to keep teaching her in the future.
6. Describe an occasion when you received incorrect information

You should say:
• What was the incorrect information
• When did it happen
• How you found out the information was incorrect
34
One year ago, I came across a so-called “fake news article” while searching for Covid-19 updates
online. The article claimed that drinking bleach or disinfectant could cure or prevent the virus in
some unscientific way. It cited questionable sources and provided totally misleading information
about the safety and effectiveness of these substances. Although I was initially alarmed and
skeptical, I felt a strong urge to verify the information, just to see if it checked out at all.
To my surprise, some people actually fell for and followed this dangerous advice, despite
warnings from health experts. The article had been widely shared on social media platforms,
spreading misinformation in certain communities rife for that kind of content. The incident
exemplified the prevalent issue of misinformation and fake news in the digital age - no good
solution that I know of off the top of my head.
In response, I took immediate action. I shared more reliable sources and accurate information
with my family and friends to ensure they wouldn’t be fooled or indoctrinated. I also flagged the
fake news to the relevant authorities and platforms to limit its spread. Recognizing the
importance of critical thinking and media literacy, I always try to educate myself and others on
the essential skills for navigating and shifting through the vast amount of information available
online.
Looking back, this experience taught me the value of being vigilant and discerning when
consuming and sharing information, particularly during times of crisis. It also motivated me to
actively combat the dissemination of false information and promote the values of truth, accuracy,
and integrity in the media and thus society as a whole.
7. Describe a situation when you had to spend a long time in traffic jam
You should say:
• When it was
• Where you were going
• How long you had to wait
And explain how you felt about this.
35
About a week ago I was on my way home to Hanoi from a road trip around the North of Vietnam
for five or so days. My friends and I were heading back home from Ha Giang and we had been
driving for about five hours when we had to stop dead on a highway just north of Noi Bai Airport.
We had run into a traffic jam and it stretched out for about two kilometers down the highway,
meaning that we would be gridlocked for quite some time. We wanted to know how long before
we could get out of the jam so we turned on the radio and tuned it to the traffic frequency.
On the traffic bulletin they announced that the jam was caused by a rather nasty collision between
two vehicles and the aftermath had led them to shut down two of three lanes. Other vehicles had
to drive around the incident, creating a bottleneck. That information wasn’t that helpful though
since we didn’t have a choice other than to just wait it out. Bit by bit, we started moving along
until we got clear of the jam - nearly two hours in the end!
I wasn’t too upset about it because our flight was delayed anyhow so we had plenty of time to
spare and since I was with friends we found ways to kill the time. If I were on my own or in a
rush, it would have been a different story.
8. Describe an occasion when you got lost

You should say:
• Where you were
• What happened
• How you felt
And explain how you found your way.
I would like to share an incident when I found myself lost while exploring the intricate streets
of Hanoi's Old Quarter.
It was during my visit to the old quarter, a place I’d been a few times before but never really
properly explored. This part of Hanoi is known for its narrow streets filled with local markets
and historical landmarks. As I immersed myself in the bustling atmosphere, I unknowingly
strayed from the main route I had mapped out in my head and found myself in unfamiliar
36
surroundings. The maze-like streets made it challenging to get my bearings and figure out where
I was.
Initially, a mix of excitement and slight unease washed over me as I realized I was lost in the
heart of Hanoi. The crowded streets, exotic smells, and the unique architecture added to the
excitement but also heightened my confusion. In the end, I embraced the situation as an
opportunity for adventure and discovery, reminding myself that getting lost can often lead to
unexpected encounters and memorable experiences.
To find my way back, I approached a friendly local vendor selling traditional Vietnamese
handicrafts. With a warm smile, they kindly offered directions to the main landmarks and guided
me towards familiar territory. Following their instructions, I navigated through the criss-crossing
alleyways coming out by a familiar landmark that I recognized. In hindsight, maybe I’m
overselling the adventure element of it - I just had to ask someone to point the way out for me
and I could have taken out my phone at any time to check the map too.
37
❖ Vocabulary:
WORD MEANING
Throw a fit/tantrum Đùng đùng nổi giận
Act out Cư xử tệ
Not take kindly to something Không thích, không ưa
To rein in something/someone Kiểm chế
Unruly Ngỗ ngược, ngang bướng
Ordeal Trải nghiệm đau đớn, khó khăn
Scream one’s head off Hét lớn
Overcome one’s fear Vượt qua nỗi sợ hãi
Once-in-a-lifetime experience Trải nghiệm chỉ có một lần trong đời
Embrace Đón nhận
Drive someone up the wall Làm cho ai đó vô cùng tức giận
Set someone back (something) Tiêu tốn (một khoản tiền)
To be supposed to Đáng nhẽ ra
Persistent Kiên trì, bền bỉ
Break down Hỏng, dừng hoạt động
Go about something Bắt đầu làm
Figure out Tìm ra, giải quyết
Have an issue with someone/something Có vấn đề với
Struggle with something Chật vật với
Set aside some time Để dành một chút thời gian
An engaging learning environment Một môi trường học tập lôi cuốn
38
WORD MEANING
Teaching method Phương pháp giảng dạy
Boost one’s confidence Tăng sự tự tin
Gratitude Lòng biết ơn
Academic performance Kết quả học tập
Self-esteem Lòng tự trọng
Take/make an impact on Tác động tới
Make someone's day Làm cho ai đó rất vui
Misleading information Thông tin sai lệch
Vigilant Cảnh giác
Verify Xác minh
Fall for something Bị lừa
Exemplify Là một ví dụ tiêu biểu cho
Kill some time Giết thời gian
Run into a traffic jam Gặp ùn tắc giao thông

topic-3-13909811
39
TOPIC 4:
ACTIVITY
40
1. Describe an expensive activity that you enjoy doing occasionally
You should say:
• What it is
• Who you do it with
• Why it is expensive
And explain why you enjoy doing this expensive activity.
An expensive pastime that I enjoy doing from time to time is playing golf. It’s a sport that is
mostly the domain of rich people who play at private golf courses and country clubs. I’m in a
fortunate enough position having inherited a lot of money that I can afford golf clubs, balls and
a country club membership. I usually play golf with friends from school. They’re in similar
positions to me and keen on learning the sport. Sometimes I play with complete strangers I meet
at the country club but that’s kind of rare. I enjoy the leisurely pace of it and the competitive
element - we usually place bets on the games and square up after we finish 9 or 18 holes.
Golf is an expensive sport because of the costs involved, that’s kind of obvious. First, there’s
the price of golf balls. They cost an average of 50 dollars per box, which is pretty costly for a
ball the size of a kumquat. More importantly, there’s the price of golf clubs. Typically, they’ll
set you back around 400 - 500 dollars for one set, and that’s a cheaper set. Nevertheless, I still
enjoy playing golf because it is a very calming sport that helps me to relieve my stress and
anxiety. I also like the technical aspect of working on my swing, learning to put, choosing the
right club for any given shot, etc.
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.
41
I'm going to talk about surfing, a pastime that I’ve been thinking about having a crack at for a
while now. Just so you know - well, as you know, actually - it's a water sport where one stands
on a long plastic or wooden board and rides waves in the ocean. The idea of gliding across the
water and catching the perfect wave is exciting because it’s so out of the ordinary. Surprisingly,
it's widely popular in Western countries but not as much in Vietnam, which seems unusual
considering our extensive coastline and all the stunning beaches dotting the country.
I don't know about you but I think of surfing as a challenging and potentially hazardous water
sport. I’ve stumbled upon loads of online videos showing individuals attempting surfing and
failing miserably. So, I really think that enrolling in a surfing course should be my first step if I
want to give it a real go. That would be better for my safety and my confidence. In terms of the
equipment, for a beginner, you'll need a surfboard, a surfboard leash, fins and a wetsuit. If
possible, I’d love to practice surfing in Nha Trang, one of the more popular coastal beach towns
in Vietnam.
There are several reasons why I’m eager to give surfing a go. For one, it provides an incredible
connection with nature - I can immerse myself in the waves, feel their force and take in the sights
around me - I imagine it to be a rejuvenating and exhilarating experience. For another, surfing
offers many mental and physical health benefits. It forces me to use different muscles - rarely
used ones - so in a sense, it's a total body workout. On top of that, it's also a great way to put my
feet up and relieve stress as I can enjoy being out in the sunshine and having fun in the waves.
Hopefully one day I can paddle out, catch my first wave, and embark on the thrilling journey of
becoming a surfer. Just the thought of it already fills me with excitement and dread.
3. Describe an activity that made you feel tired

You should say:
• When and where it took place
• Why you took part in it
• What the activity was
And explain why it made you feel tired.
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I once took part in a marathon almost 5 years ago, a hellish experience. It was the annual Hanoi
Marathon where competitors run 42 kilometers around the city and the first person to cross the
finish line wins the race - that goes without saying. The race track spans all the major central
districts of Hanoi - Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh and Tay Ho to name a few. Some of it even cuts through
small alleyways to make the race more challenging and unique. I took part in the marathon
because I thought it would be a nice challenge for me and I needed to get in the exercise at the
time. I was pretty out of shape back then and my cardio and endurance were poor to say the least.
The start and finish line was next to Hoan Kiem Lake. We all started the run at 10 in the morning.
In order not to tire myself out too early on, I paced myself. After all, it’s not a big deal if I don’t
finish 1st; all that matters is just finishing the race. And finishing first wasn’t really on my
mind… I managed to run for about 4 hours and 10 minutes covering the full 42 kilometers and
by the end I was properly knackered. My legs were shaky and I was struggling to catch my
breath for a while. I was tired because running for 42 kilometers without stopping was just too
much for my body to handle. Perhaps I should wait a while until giving another marathon a shot.
4. Describe an activity that you enjoy doing alone in your free time
You should say:
• What it is
• How often you do it
• Where you usually do it
And explain why you like to do this activity.
I’m an avid reader so I’d go with reading as my all-time favorite activity when I’m on my own.
I've made it a part of my daily routine to read, even if it's just for a second. On average, I'd say I
spend about an hour or two completely absorbed in the pages of a good book every day. It doesn't
matter if it's a gripping novel, a thought-provoking non-fiction book, or even some soothing
poetry; I'm up for it all. I like changing it up too so that I don’t get bored of the same genre.
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My favorite reading spot… is this cozy corner in my bedroom near the window. I've created a
small reading nook there with a comfortable armchair, a soft blanket, and a well-organized
bookshelf. It's the perfect spot for me to forget my worries and escape into a good book.
The thing about reading that really pulls me in is how it transports me to different worlds and
allows me to explore varied cultures, historical eras and perspectives - all within the confines of
my imagination. It's like taking an imaginary trip that broadens my horizons and fosters empathy.
Secondly, reading is my go-to stress reliever. When I open a book, it's like waving goodbye to
all the worries and stresses of the day and diving into the author's world where none of that stuff
is relevant. It's a form of healthy escapism that helps me recharge and face life. I think of it as
healthy because I learn more than I would just messing around on my phone. Every book I read
contributes a bit more to my understanding of the world, and it's a fantastic way to build and
exercise my vocabulary.
For me, reading is a beloved solo activity because it offers me an escape, broadens my horizons,
relaxes me, and satisfies my innate curiosities about the world. It's a habit that I treasure deeply,
and honestly, I can't imagine a life without the sheer joy of reading.
5. Describe a leisure activity you do with your family

You should say
• What it is
• When you do it
• Where you do it
And explain how you feel about it.
A leisure activity that my family and I enjoy immensely is our tradition of going on picnics when
we’ve got the chance. It's a chilled - out way for us to spend quality time together, bond, and
savor delicious homemade meals in tranquil natural spots. Typically, we plan picnics for
weekends or special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. It's our way of celebrating and
setting aside dedicated time to enjoy each other's company. We usually pick quiet outdoor
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locations, such as parks, botanical gardens, or even somewhere in the countryside not too far
from Hanoi, depending on the season and the weather.
The anticipation and warmth associated with family picnics are truly heartwarming, not to be
too sentimental. It's an activity that brings us all closer together and creates wonderful memories.
As we gather up the picnic essentials - sandwiches, fruit, salads, snacks, and a classic checkered
blanket - there's an undeniable sense of excitement in the air. Once we arrive at our chosen spot,
we find a cozy spot under the shade of a tree or by a calm lake. This atmosphere is complemented
by the laughter and chatter of my family members, the alluring aroma of the food, and the
soothing sounds of rustling leaves or gentle waves. That’s when everything goes to plan at least
- if it doesn’t rain for example. We enjoy our meal, play board games or cards, and sometimes
play a light sport like badminton.
The simple act of sharing a meal outdoors and appreciating one’s natural surroundings makes
me feel incredibly content and connected to my family. It's during these picnics that we have
heart-to-heart conversations, share anecdotes, and strengthen our familial bonds.
All in all, picnicking with my family is a cherished leisure activity that fills me with happiness
and a profound sense of togetherness. It's an opportunity for the whole family to leave behind
the stress of everyday life, enjoy delicious food, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
6. Describe a game you played in your childhood

You should say:
• What the game was
• When you played it
• Who you played with
And explain how you felt about the game.
During my childhood, I used to play a game called "Hide and Seek," - everyone has heard of it
- and even though every kid plays it, that’s one that stands out for me. It was a favorite activity
that I enjoyed with my siblings, cousins, and neighborhood friends.
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We would gather in our backyard or the nearby park to play the classic game. The rules were
simple: one person is the seeker, while the rest of us scatter to find hiding spots. After counting
to a designated number, the seeker begins searching us out. The objective is to remain hidden
for as long as possible without being discovered.
Playing hide and seek filled me with a thrilling mix of adrenaline and anticipation, I remember
getting sweaty palms playing. I delighted in finding the perfect hiding spot, trying to stay silent
and blending in with my surroundings. The game required a fair amount of creativity and quick
thinking as I had to strategize to outwit the seeker and find the cleverest, least likely hiding
places.
Beyond the exhilaration of the game itself, hide and seek fostered a strong sense of camaraderie
among us. It brought us closer together, strengthening bonds and I have lots of fun memories
from playing. We would cheer for one another's successful hiding spots and enjoy the suspense
while hiding. The game also improved our social skills as we took turns being the seeker,
communicated during gameplay, and learned the importance of fair play and cooperation.
All in all, hide and seek holds a special place in my childhood even to this day. It provided
endless hours of laughter, excitement, and a sense of adventure lacking in other parts of my day.
I’m a bit on the old side to play now, so I really just have those memories to hold onto.
46
❖ Vocabulary:
WORD MEANING
Chilled-out Thư giãn
Pastime Thú vui
Keen on Thích
Relieve stress and anxiety Giải tỏa căng thẳng và lo lắng
Knackered Mệt nhoài
Out of the ordinary Khác thường
Stumble across/on/upon something Tình cờ thấy, phát hiện
Give something a go/shot Thử
Immerse myself in Đắm mình vào
Take in the sights Ngắm cảnh
Enroll in a course Tham gia vào một khóa học
Offers many mental and physical health Đem lại nhiều lợi ích về sức khỏe thể chất
benefits và tinh thần
Put my feet up Thư giãn
Outwit Mưu mẹo hơn
Fill someone with something Làm cho ai đó cảm thấy rất
A hellish experience Trải nghiệm tồi tệ
Out of shape Yếu (về mặt thể chất)
An avid reader Một người ham đọc sách
Be up for sth Muốn
Broaden my horizons Mở mang tầm hiểu biết
47
WORD MEANING
Wave/say goodbye to something Tạm biệt, đánh mất
Mess around on my phone Nghịch, chơi điện thoại
Enrich my vocabulary Trau dồi vốn từ vựng
Savor Thưởng thức
Anticipation Sự háo hức
Heartwarming Ấm lòng
Natural surroundings Môi trường tự nhiên
Content Mãn nguyện
A heart-to-heart (conversation) Cuộc trò chuyện chân thành
Strengthen the bond Làm bền chặt mối quan hệ
Indelible memories Kỉ niệm khó quên, đáng nhớ
A sense of adventure Cảm giác phiêu lưu
Challenging Thách thức
Take exercise Tập thể dục
To be in great shape Khỏe mạnh

topic-4-13909807
48
TOPIC 5:
PLACE
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1. Describe a place away from your home and you want to visit in the future
You should say:
• Where you would like to go
• When you would like to go
• Who you want to go with
And explain why you want to visit the place.
One place I would be willing to take the long journey to from my home would be Rome in Italy.
It's the capital of the country and I've heard nothing but nice things about it so a part of me wants
to check it out ASAP. I’ve seen pictures and movies set in Rome - like the newest installment of
the Fast and Furious franchise - and they all feature iconic landmarks such as the Coliseum, the
Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and many of its ancient churches and monasteries. I’m really into
that kind of stuff. More than that, the culinary scene in Rome is also reportedly a real treat. Italian
cuisine is celebrated worldwide, and Rome offers a wide range of traditional dishes such as
pasta, pizza, gelato, and espresso - but done in the authentic Italian style. Exploring the city's
trattorias and enjoying authentic Roman cuisine would be a delightful experience that I don’t
want to miss out on.
As for when I would like to visit Rome… I would say maybe when I’m in my mid-30s because
right now I want to focus on my career and making sure I don’t have to bankrupt myself to go
there. I hope I still feel like going in a few years. Also, I would like to bring my family to Rome
with me because they’ve never been to the city and they’d like to go there too so it would be a
nice family outing.
I’m passionate about visiting Rome because, like I said before, I'm impressed by how it has been
portrayed in the entertainment world. I haven’t talked about some of the other aspects of the city
too: meeting locals, visiting Vatican City, learning bits and pieces of a beautiful language - Rome
has a lot going for it.
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2. Describe a favorite place in your house where you can relax.
You should say:
• Where it is
• What it is like
• What you enjoy doing there
And explain why you feel relaxed at this place.
In my house, I have a special place where I can relax, which is my bedroom. To give some
context, I live in a three-story house with my parents right by a small alley. It is painted white
on the outside and it has a small garden at the front of it. On the inside, the house has a living
room, an atrium, a dining room and the kitchen on the ground floor. Go one floor up and you’ll
find my bedroom, my dad’s office, a bathroom and my parents’ bedroom. When you reach the
top floor, there’s a guest bedroom and a storage closet. Like I said before, my bedroom is on the
second floor at one end of the hallway.
In my bedroom, there is my bed which is on the bottom right corner of the room. I also have a
TV and a PlayStation 4 directly facing the bed which allows me to comfortably watch TV or
play games on my bed. Right next to the TV is my desk where I do my work and on the desk is
a lamp and some of my mementos from childhood such as pictures from previous trips and
school certificates. Finally, on the left wall is my cabinet where all my clothes are kept.
Whenever I’m in my room, I would usually watch TV or play on the PS4 to pass the time.
However, on school nights I would do my homework and finish it as early as possible so that I
can have some free time. I feel relaxed in my room because it is my sort of happy place where I
can lie on my bed, decompress and escape from my problems for the time being. Being in my
room helps put my mind at ease.
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3. Describe a perfect /dream house you saw (an ideal house/apartment where you want to
live)
You should say:
• When and where you saw it
• What it looked like
• What special feature it had
And explain why you liked it.
I bumped into a house a week ago while I was taking a walk around my local area. The house
caught my attention because of the modern design - a glass façade, three balconies, four floors
and an ornate wooden front gate. It was located right on the main street in my hometown where
all the shops and offices are. The location is convenient - whoever lives can easily go shopping
and commute to work. I figure it must be some rich person who owns the place since the design
and majesty of the house really stands out on a really modest residential street.
Like I said before, the house has a glass façade so that plenty of natural light can pour in and
that must cut down on the electricity bill - crucial I’m sure given the cost of the house. It also
has three balconies with one on each floor minus the ground floor, and many trees and plants
outside including an herb garden and flower beds. The inhabitants can sit outside, enjoying the
fresh air and immersing themselves in the natural world with a cup of coffee - that’s how I’d use
it at least. In contrast to the house itself, the front gate is entirely made of wood, which sort of
juxtaposes the traditional and the modern in a really nice way.
I love the house because it's an interesting mix of both conventional and cutting-edge
architectural stylings, and it also has some nifty features like the glass façade so that the people
living there don’t have to rely on artificial lights - you don’t want to feel like you're living in an
office. Perhaps if it ever goes up for sale and I have enough money, I’ll try to put in a bid.
Wishful thinking, I know.
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4. Describe a place you want to visit with you friends or family in the future
You should say:
• Where you would like to go
• When you would like to go
• Who you want to go with
And explain why you want to visit the place.
One city that I would like to visit with my friends for a couple of days is Manchester in northern
England.
Manchester is home to over 500,000 people, and it is often labeled as the industrial and financial
centre of northwestern England since it is where all of the major companies are based for their
operations in that area.
One thing I would like to do when I visit is watch a football game. Manchester is home to two
of the most successful football clubs in England, Manchester United and Manchester City. I’m
more of a United fan since I don’t like how City play the game and the way they conduct
business. It is a must for any United fan to make the trip to Old Trafford and watch players like
Marcus Rashford and Raphael Varane work miracles on the pitch. Another thing I would like to
do is visit the Science and Industry Museum as it highlights the pivotal role Manchester played
in the Industrial Revolution. I’ve been told that people can see exhibits of modern technology at
its earliest stages.
I like to visit Manchester with my friends because they are also interested in going there and
doing the things that I would like to do. My best friend Jon is a fellow United fan and he wants
to watch a football match at Old Trafford with me. I would like to visit this city because not only
is it a vibrant metropolis where there is always something going on, but also it is helping to shape
England’s cultural identity in numerous ways, whether it would be its music or its long-standing
sporting tradition.
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5. Describe a park or a garden in your city
You should say:
• Where it is
• How often you go there
• What people do in this place
And explain why you like to visit it.
In Hanoi, there’s a cool park called Centre Park that I hit up quite often. It's become my go-to
spot when I need a breather from the daily grind or if I’m in a contemplative mood.
I visit Centre Park at least once a week, typically on weekends. It's conveniently located in the
heart of the city, right between the crowded streets of the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.
Most days, it only takes about 15 minutes to walk there from my place. I usually go to the park
with some close friends or my family, but sometimes I go there alone if no one is up to hang out
that day or I’m not feeling it.
Centre Park is often regarded as a picturesque oasis in the heart of Hanoi for locals and tourists
alike. It’s got lots of green spaces, walking paths, benches and playgrounds. People head there
for group picnics, casual jogs, or simply to part themselves on the benches, watching people pass
by. On weekends, the park is often packed with families getting in some quality family time
together. I find it refreshing to see children playing on the playground. There’re also big lakes
with paddle boats and even a pagoda where one can seek spiritual tranquility amidst the urban
chaos. The vibes there are super chill and calming, making it the perfect place to recharge and
escape all the city noise which is just a few streets away.
I love visiting Central Park for many reasons. As I just said, it provides a literal breath of fresh
air and a chance to reconnect with nature to some degree without leaving the city. It's a place
where I can unwind, meditate, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. A place to get your head right
after a long day.
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6. Describe a new store/shop that just opened in your area
You should say:
• What shop it is
• What it sells
• How you came to know about this shop
And explain why you like to go to this shop.
Today, I’d like to talk about a wonderful new grocery shop that recently opened in my area
called "Fresh Paradise”. It's a specialized trendy shop that focuses on selling organic and
sustainable products including fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy and eggs, and even some
specialty foods, which cater to individuals who are conscious about their health and the
environment and don’t mind paying a premium.
If I’m not mistaken, I first came to know about this store about a year ago through word-of-
mouth from a neighbor who highly recommended it. Intrigued by the concept of supporting local
farmers and having access to fresh, organic produce, I decided to visit the shop. From my first
visit, I was impressed by the quality and variety of products available at Fresh Paradise. The
shelves are filled with earthy fruits and vegetables that are sourced directly from nearby farms.
I really dislike the fancy supermarkets that have lots of organic products but also tons of things
imported internationally - those are too showy for me and it's so much more ethical to support
local farmers rather than contribute to some big business shipping goods around the world and
polluting the environment at the same time.
Going to Fresh Harvest has become a regular part of my grocery shopping routine for several
reasons. Firstly, as I was saying, I truly value the opportunity to support local farmers and the
community. It's satisfying to know that my purchases not only provide the locals with a regular
source of income but also contribute to the growth of local agriculture and the decline of big
business interests. Second, the freshness and quality of the products at Fresh Paradise are
exceptional. The produce is bright and flavorful, and I am confident to say that it's free from
harmful pesticides and chemicals. In addition, the shop prioritizes minimal-to-no packaging and
55
encourages customers to bring their own reusable bags and containers. This aligns with my
personal goal of reducing my environmental footprint.
All in all, Fresh Harvest is a store that I thoroughly enjoy visiting. It's win-win all around - health
for me, good for the environment, good for local businesses and I don’t feel guilty supporting
international conglomerates.
7. Describe a crowded place you have been to

You should say:
• Where the place is
• When you went there
• Whom you went there
And explain how you felt about this crowded place.
One of the most memorable crowded places I’ve been to is Hanoi’s pedestrian square, also
known as Hanoi Walking Street. It’s a vibrant and bustling area located in the heart of the historic
Old Quarter in Hanoi and a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike as it offers a
lively and pedestrian-friendly environment. A place to get your head right after a long day.
If my memory serves me right, I visited it first when I participated in the annual Hanoi Carnival
with my friends. The Hanoi Carnival is a colorful street festival that celebrates the spirit of Hanoi
and showcases the diverse cultures and traditions of Vietnam. The event typically takes place in
the pedestrian zone around Hoan Kiem Lake and attracts thousands of spectators each year.
Coming to the avenue for the first time, I realized that navigating the crowd was actually going
to be both exhilarating and a bit on the challenging side. It was packed, huge crowds moving in
synchronized chaos. However, amidst the tides of people, it felt fun. People regardless of
nationality interacted with one another, engaging in conversations, laughing, and sharing cultural
knowledge with each other. That made me feel that the Hanoi pedestrian square is not only a
place for commerce and entertainment but also a space for community engagement.
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Overall, the Hanoi pedestrian square is a captivating and lively destination that offers a sensory
feast of sights, sounds, and tastes - I forgot to mention all the great food on offer there. If anyone
asks me about it, I’ll definitely recommend it!
8. Describe an open-air or street market which you enjoy visiting

You should say:
• Where the market is
• What the market sells
• How big the market is
And explain why you enjoy visiting this market.
One of the most memorable crowded places I’ve been to is Hanoi’s pedestrian square, also
known as Hanoi Walking Street. It’s a vibrant and bustling area located in the heart of the historic
Well, a few months ago, I visited an open-air market with my friends. This market is popular
among locals and tourists alike and I really enjoyed popping over there for the millionth time.
Hanoi night market is located in the heart of the Old Quarter - along Hang Dao and its
surrounding streets. The market typically takes place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings,
starting around 7 or 8 and lasting until late at night - until curfew I suppose.
In the market, just about every product you can imagine is for sale, ranging from household
items, clothing, and jewelry, to handicrafts and souvenirs. Everything is a bit cheaper than you’d
find them in the mall so it’s good for people on a budget or students who are just scraping by.
On top of that, the market is most famous for the food on offer there. There are tons of little
stalls offering regional Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi, pho, fresh spring rolls, and various
grilled skewers. You can eat your fill and then some.
The market is actually pretty massive, stretching for about 3 kilometers in total - I heard that
once. It can get quite crowded, especially during the peak evening hours when locals and tourists
both gather to explore it. I remember the first time I went I was kinda overwhelmed by the whole
scene. I found myself bumping into a lot of strangers.
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But now I love strolling through the crowd to take in the lively atmosphere. It’s a unique sensory
adventure. Here, you can see, hear, and taste the essence of the city come alive as day turns into
night.
9. Describe a place in your country that you are interested in

You should say:
• Where it is
• How you know it
• What it is famous for
And explain why you think it is interesting.
The place that immediately comes to my mind is Ha Giang, a province located in the
northernmost region of my country. In recent years, Ha Giang's remote and unspoiled nature has
gained immense popularity among globetrotters, adventurers and nature lovers alike. Foreigners
but locals too. I’m always coming across breathtaking pictures and videos posted by friends and
influencers on social media of their trips to Ha Giang. A lot of the images are burned in my mind
at this point.
The province is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. Steep mountain passes, deep
valleys, winding roads and foggy villages all around. Every year, around October and
November, the Ha Giang Mountains are in full bloom. The valleys are carpeted by endless fields
of yellow cabbage, peach blossoms and violet buckwheat flowers. It’s mesmerizing and most
people in Vietnam consider it to be our finest example of raw natural beauty. However, what
appeals to me the most is the pristine terraced rice fields that seem to stretch endlessly into the
horizon. In spring, the terraces are filled with water, creating a mirror-like effect that reflects the
sky and surroundings and is made for taking panoramic pictures.
Moreover, this remote corner of the country is home to numerous ethnic minority groups. The
Hmong, Tay, Dao, and many others have their own distinct traditions, languages, and customs.
They coexist harmoniously, contributing to the vibrant mosaic of cultures that is often
overlooked in Vietnam. Ha Giang's cultural diversity is on full display with colorful traditional
58
costumes, vibrant local markets, traditional festivals and various rituals. Living in such remote
areas, the locals are known for their resilience, hard work, and character. But they’re also very
friendly and hospitable. While visiting, we can interact with local communities by sharing meals
with local families, listening to their stories that have been handed down for generations, and
participating in age-old ceremonies. Oh, I forgot to mention one of the most appealing specialties
on offer there - the different kinds of rice and corn and fruity wines they distill themselves!
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❖ Vocabulary:
WORD MEANING
Iconic landmarks Những địa danh nổi tiếng
Miss out on Bỏ lỡ
A family outing Một chuyến du lịch cùng gia đình
Put my mind at ease Thư giãn
Escape from my problems Tránh xa những vấn đề, rắc rối
Pass the time Giết thời gian
Cultural identity Bản sắc văn hóa
Long-standing sporting tradition Truyền thống thể thao lâu đời
Go-to spot Điểm đến yêu thích
A breather from daily grind Nghỉ ngơi sau những công việc mệt nhọc
Hit up Ghé thăm, đến một nơi nào đó
Picturesque oasis Ốc đảo xinh đẹp
Urban chaos Sự hỗn loạn của đô thị
Reconnect with nature Kết nối với thiên nhiên
Leisurely stroll Đi dạo thư giãn
Paying a premium Trả giá cao
Word-of-mouth Truyền miệng
Specialty foods Đặc sản vùng miền
Minimal-to-no packaging Hành lí tối giản hoặc không có
International conglomerates Tập đoàn quốc tế
Pedestrian square Quảng trường đi bộ
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WORD MEANING
A vibrant and bustling area Nơi náo nhiệt sôi động
Get your head right Sự tập trung
A sensory feast of Một bữa tiệc các giác quan
Bumping into Tình cờ gặp, va vào, đụng phải
Take in Thưởng thức, hấp thụ
Gained immense popularity Phổ biến
Burned in my mind In sâu vào tâm trí
Stretch endlessly into the horizon Trải dài đến tận đường chân trời
Renowned for Nổi tiếng
Pristine terraced rice fields Cánh đồng lúa bậc thang nguyên sơ
Hand down Truyền lại, truyền tụng
Age-old ceremonies Lễ hội cổ truyền
Vibrant mosaic of cultures Bức tranh văn hóa sôi động
Violet buckwheat flowers Hoa bạc hà tím

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TOPIC 6:
OTHERS
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1. Describe a skill you can teach others
You should say:
• What it is
• When you learned it
• How you taught others
And explain how you feel about this skill.
Today I’m going to tell you about a skill that I'm particularly fond of imparting to others -
juggling a football. Basically, it involves getting started by kicking the ball into the air and then
using your feet to keep kicking it up. The purpose of this is to keep the ball up as long as possible.
The reason I love teaching this fundamental football drill is that it doesn’t require any special
equipment like training cones or hurdles. Really all you need is a ball and a bit of space to play
around comfortably. Also, it’s one of the most basic skills that every football player needs to
master as it can help enhance ball control and touch. This is fundamental if they want to be
proficient in more advanced skills like shooting, passing, and dribbling.
I first learned how to do keep-ups when I started playing football in primary school. My PE
teacher instructed us how to juggle the ball and at first, I couldn’t even keep the ball up in the
air for more than 3 seconds. But my teacher encouraged me to not give up as all things are
difficult before they are easy. So, I kept on training on my own at the playground near my house
every day after school. Over the years, I’ve gradually honed my skills through regular practice
and participating in football games with my classmates. This has helped me improve my game
a lot in a more general sense and I also enjoy the sport more because I am able to help my
teammates out and show off my skills. You don’t do actual keep-ups in a match but it helps other
skills that are used in games develop.
I'm really passionate about teaching this skill to other footballers because it allows me to share
my love for the sport and contribute to others’ physical and personal development. For me,
football isn't just a game; it's also a way to promote teamwork, physical fitness, and mental well-
being. And I'm looking forward to teaching and inspiring others through this skill in the future.
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2. Describe a happy experience in your childhood that you remember well
You should say:
• When and where it happened
• Who you were with
• What you saw or did
And explain why you remember it so well.
I fondly remember the time I went to Disneyland for the first time. It was the one in Paris and
the memory of it is seared into my brain - in a good way, haha. When I was six years old, I was
in France visiting my grandfather who was working there at the time - he lived in Paris for some
years and my family and I stayed with him for a couple of weeks. One day, my grandfather along
with my parents decided to take me and my little sister along to Disneyland for a fun day out
with the whole family. When we finally got there, to my younger self it looked as magical as the
Disney movies themselves. It was so vast and all the sections had a theme attached to them that
was relevant to a famous Disney movie - the castle from Beauty and the Beast, an underwater
Little Mermaid ride and so on.
What we did first was go on a roller coaster. I remember it being so fast and there were plenty
of twists and turns - it was scary. Afterwards, we went on a merry-go-round where the seats were
modeled after the teacups from Beauty and the Beast. That was a fun ride as well. We also got
to see full-sized mascots of famous Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald
Duck. I grew up watching their cartoons so seeing them in person was a joy to behold and
definitely a major highlight for me as a kid. Finally, we got to have lunch with food based on
the dishes seen in the movie Ratatouille. They tasted as good as they looked in the movie -
though I didn’t actually order any ratatouille.
I recall this trip to Disneyland so well because it was such a thrill to go there for the first time.
It was such an overwhelming experience to see the characters and movies me and my sister loved
watching as kids come to life in the form of an amusement park.
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3. Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study that you felt proud of
You should say:
• What the task was
• How you completed it
• Why the task was difficult
And explain why you were proud at the completion of the task.
A significant accomplishment that I'm particularly proud of is building a website from scratch.
It was a project I undertook during my final year of university, and it turned out to be a valuable
learning experience.
The project involved creating an online testing system wherein teachers can upload exams,
homework, lectures, etc. so that students can check in with the website to complete exercises,
revise lessons and even take tests. I chose this project because I wanted to foster improved online
learning since students often fall behind in lecture halls and need some individual learning time.
Also, I hoped to improve my own web development skills through a practical project to stand
out and be a more attractive candidate for later job applications.
To complete the task, I began by conducting research with my teachers to understand the specific
requirements for this sort of website. I also collected content, including text, images, and videos,
that would be featured on the site. Next, I got really into web development and started building
the website's structure and design from a user experience perspective. I also used a database
management system to store sensitive information like test results and teacher and student IDs.
One of the main reasons why building this website was challenging was that I had to do it all by
myself since my 2 other team members had already dropped out of the project by the time we
were due to start. Also, I faced time constraints as I was already juggling my regular coursework
with my part-time job. So, I had to burn the midnight oil almost every day to meet the deadline.
Eventually, I was able to complete the website and I was immensely proud of this achievement.
I acquired new skills in web development and content management. Also, the project allowed
me to improve my time management and problem-solving skills. It was incredibly rewarding to
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see the website go live and receive positive feedback from my teachers. I think this experience
has given me the confidence to take on more challenging projects in the future.
4. Describe an invention that changed people's lives

You should say:
• What it is
• What it does
• How popular it is among people of different ages
And explain why you think it changed people's lives.
Well to be honest, there are tons of wondrous inventions that have changed our lives for the
better I could highlight, but to single out one, then I would definitely go for an airplane - one of
the greatest awe-inspiring inventions of our time. I've read up about it on the internet before but
I can't remember exactly when it was first built or who invented it. Some Americans I think and
probably in the neighborhood of the early 20th century or so.
There are several reasons why I consider the airplane to be one of the most influential inventions
thus far. For one thing, it has significantly shortened travel time for overseas journeys. In the
past, moving from one country to another would take us weeks or even months or years and
most people would probably pass away on the journey, but with airplanes, you can hop on a
flight and be there in a matter of hours. Lots of people take that for granted these days - trips that
were almost impossible in the past now are nearly effortless. Something to think about when
complaining that your flight is a few hours late or there isn’t enough leg room… On top of that,
it encourages people to travel abroad more often, which leads to the growth of the tourism
industry in various countries and generates significant economic benefits for locals. Besides, the
risk of having an accident while traveling by plane is much lower compared to other modes of
transport so it's a safer way to travel - naturally you can’t really fly to work as part of a daily
commute though.
As an avid traveler, I feel so grateful to the ones who came up with manned flight - not grateful
enough to learn their names but still - because it enables me to set foot in disparate cultures and
66
learn more about people from all walks of life. All in all, had it not been for the invention of the
airplane, the world would be a smaller, dimmer place to live.
5. Describe something you would like to learn in the future

You should say:
• What it is
• How you would like to learn it
• Why you would like to learn it
And explain whether it is difficult to learn it.
Someday, I would like to learn how to fix a TV. I watch TV a lot, a lot a lot, but the one I have
keeps breaking down and so I end up having to call the repairman and pay for the repairs month
after month so I’ve decided to take matters into my own hands and have vowed to learn how to
do basic repairs on a TV. I would like to learn this skill from a professional repairman because
he or she will have the specialized knowledge that will keep me from making a mess of things.
Luckily, I know a few friends who are repairmen who can help me out with this endeavour. I’d
also like to learn to repair TVs at home since it’ll be something I can do by myself and for myself
and I won’t have to rely on a repairman for every simple little problem. I don’t intend to learn
in a school setting - no need in my opinion.
I’m so interested in learning this because I think it's crucial for everyone to be able to get basic
repairs done on their own to promote self-reliance and also save a lot of time and effort. More
than that, I’ll be able to save by not having to pay the repairman to fix my TV every time it
breaks down - so there’s a two-fold benefit there.
However, I acknowledge that it will be a challenging skill to pick up since it's very technical and
there are many parts of a TV to pay attention to that could be potentially dangerous.
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6. Describe an important text message you received
You should say:
• Who sent the message
• What was in the message
• Why the person sent the message
And explain why the message was important to you.
You know, I get bombarded with messages all day long it seems like. Most of them? Meh,
nothing special. But there was one message that really had a huge impact on my life.
I got the text message about a year ago. It came at a time when I was in between jobs and feeling
really uncertain about the future.
It was a Sunday morning I was lying down on my bed messing around on my phone and chilling
out to some music. And out of the blue, a message from the HR manager of a prestigious
company I had applied for popped up on my phone. I'd landed the job - a big surprise because it
was a long-shot and I’d already forgotten I’d applied. I quickly got out of the bed and rushed to
show it to my parents right away. I was at such a low point and that really just lifted my spirits.
Honestly, the message meant the world to me. It wasn't just a job offer, it felt like well-deserved
recognition for the hard work and dedication I had put into honing my skills, and building my
professional qualifications over the years. Plus, it marked the beginning of a new exciting
chapter in my life. It meant I'd get to work on cutting-edge projects and team up with talented
colleagues, fostering both personal and professional growth. That’s what I thought at the time at
least.
Since this message set me off on a new path, I haven’t deleted it. Whenever I read it, it’s a pick-
me-up that reminds me to stay focused, keep my head down, keep grinding, and wait for my
luck to turn.
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7. Describe a job you think is interesting
You should say:
• What it is
• When you started concerning about this job
• Why you think it is interesting
And explain how you like it.
A job that I find interesting is that of a pilot for a commercial airline. Basically - as you don’t
need me to tell you, I hope - a pilot is tasked with flying a plane to a certain destination with its
passengers and cargo on board. I first became interested in this job when I heard from some of
my friends who were also pilots how cool it is. They told me about how you get to fly to amazing
destinations and see the clouds and mountains and ocean pass by you while also being served
mediocre food by the attendants. I thought to myself that sounds like an interesting job and I
would like to apply for it.
However, I was also told that there’s a high barrier of entry to being a pilot which includes being
in tip-top shape and having extensive knowledge of mathematics since it is useful in navigating
the skies. I’m not sure that I’ll ever get a chance to really commit to that course of action in the
future, but maybe.
I find the job of a pilot to be interesting for a few reasons. You get to fly to beautiful destinations
for one and you get paid to do it, which is the cherry on top of the whole thing. Essentially you
get paid to travel to places that you like which is just the life for a person who loves traveling
like myself. There are drawbacks naturally - I’d hate for the plane to crash into a mountain and
we’d all have to do whatever it takes to survive in the wild for months or even years. From the
movies and shows I’ve seen, that kind of thing is pretty common.
69
8. Describe a rule that is important at your school or work
You should say:
• What the rule is
• What happens when people break the rule
• Why you think it is an important rule
And explain how you feel about the rule.
Alright, so one of the key rules we have in school is about wearing our uniforms. Let me break
it down for ya.
Obviously, the rule means you have to wear the school’s designated uniform. For our school,
it’s a specific shirt with the school logo, trousers or skirt, and sometimes even a tie or blazer.
The idea is that everyone, no matter who you are or where you're from, wears the exact same
outfit every day to school and that helps break down socioeconomic barriers and divisions that
could crop up.
If anyone is caught not wearing their uniform or making alterations to it, they face consequences.
Sometimes it’s just an initial warning, but if you’re a repeat offender, you might get detention
or even sent home to change.
You know, at first, I used to think, "Why all the fuss about clothes?" But over time, I’ve come
to appreciate the uniform rule. First, it creates a sense of equality among all the students. No one
can show off their fancy branded clothes or make someone else feel like less because of what
they can afford. It puts everyone on the same wavelength in a way. Plus, it saves a lot of time in
the morning! No one has to spend ages deciding on what to wear because it’s been decided for
you in advance. To be honest, there are days when I wish I could wear my own clothes to express
my personality. But overall, I think the uniform rule is a good thing. It keeps things simple,
makes everyone look smart, and like I said before, fosters a sense of community among the
student body. Now when I look back at old school photos, seeing all of us in the uniform brings
back so many fond memories. It makes me feel nostalgic!
70
So, yeah, that’s the whole uniform rule thing from my school. Love it or hate it, it has been a big
part of my school life and that’s generally the case all across Vietnam where school uniforms
are the norm.
9. Describe a long car journey you went on

You should say:
• Where you went
• What you did at this place
• Who you went there with
And explain why you went on that journey by car.
Well, I’d like to talk about a long car trip to Sa Pa which was one of the most unforgettable
journeys that I have ever taken - with my best friends. If I’m not mistaken, it was a couple years
back now. At the time, we had just finished our final exams, so my friends and I decided to go
somewhere to unwind after all the nerve-racking hours of studying diligently and procrastinating
even more diligently. We chose Sa Pa as our destination. As you know, Sa Pa is renowned for
its ethereal beauty, characterized by the awe-inspiring landscapes adorned with rice terraces -
for a lot of people, it’s their favorite place to travel in Vietnam and totally unique culturally.
Because it was a long journey, we set off early in the morning at more or less the crack of dawn.
We were all massively excited about this trip so although we felt really sleepy at first, we revved
up pretty quick.
One of the main reasons why we chose a car trip was because cars are more comfortable and
safer compared to motorbikes - though not as fun and you can get motion sickness on all the
bumpy, winding mountain roads. Flights there are also crazy expensive so we went by car. The
road trip there was cool in itself - we passed by lots of quaint old buildings and breathtaking
views of the towering mountains, fast-flowing rivers and terraced rice fields, the captivating
natural beauty that brings in most tourists going there. On top of that, you can do lots in a car
that you can’t on a motorbike or in a plane. For example, besides taking a look at the landscape
71
outside, I can listen to music, chat with my friends to unwind or simply turn on the AC and sleep
if I'm feeling drowsy.
As a matter of fact, this is the most exciting journey that I’ve ever taken and we took loads of
photos and videos to capture all the moments - all that before we even got to Sa Pa and were
able to take in the local culture, the various ethnic minorities living up there, etc.
10. 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.
I once attended a film industry conference in Los Angeles where studios and cinema chains were
showcasing upcoming movies as well as advancements in theatrical and moviemaking
technology. In attendance were executives at the big studios and also big-name actors like Matt
Damon, Ben Affleck and Tom Hanks - stars I know.
On the 2nd day of the conference, there was a presentation on how AI will change filmmaking in
the future given by an expert on AI technology named Will Tate and also Reed Hastings - the
CEO of Netflix. Both speakers spoke eloquently about how AI will accelerate the movie
production process in terms of creating a story and crafting the visual effects. However, they
also spoke about how it will make redundant thousands of jobs in the movie industry and how it
will remove the human element in storytelling by eliminating the need for human writers and
actors in the process. In my opinion, this won’t happen in a really meaningful way for decades
but they feel the changes are coming sooner. The conclusion they came to during the presentation
was that AI will bring both opportunities and challenges to moviemaking and that studios must
use it judiciously to ensure a balance between technological progress and the crucial human
touch.
72
I found the presentation interesting because of how AI is becoming a hot topic and really divisive
one these days and I have a deep passion for the movies and how they are made. I also found it
interesting thanks to the presentation style of the speakers. They used analogies and statistics to
drive their points home so the audience could better grasp the gravity of the situation.
11. Describe a sport you enjoyed watching

You should say:
• What sports programs do you like to watch
• When you watch it
• Who do you watch with
And explain why you like watching it.
A sport that I enjoy watching quite often is football - I’m a diehard fan, in fact. I mostly watch
the Premier League - based in England, but sometimes I’ll watch the other European leagues
like the Bundesliga - Germany - and La Liga - Spain - as a lead-in to the Champions League.
Every weekend other than when there’s an international break there's a football match on and
I’ll try to catch Man United since that’s my club. I’ll really make a point of it if they’re playing
a rival Manchester City or Arsenal.
I usually watch football with my friends every weekend down at a sports bar near my house. We
start off by having a few drinks, some beer, for example, and then watch the match. When it's
over, we might hang around the bar for a while to argue about the match and talk about the table,
the league, next week, all that boring, manly stuff. In general, I admire all the players - their
dedication and spirit and talent. But I still find a small number of matches irritating because of
referees messing up or players being too violent with their tackles. Sometimes I watch football
at home by myself if I’m feeling too lazy to meet up with my friends.
I like watching football because it's a sport that doesn’t have a steep learning curve - easy to
understand. It's also not as technical as other sports like tennis or golf which is what makes it so
accessible to the average person. Plus, it’s always fun to watch football with a crowd and cheer
or boo together.
73
12. Describe a movie you watched that disappointed about
You should say:
• What it was
• When you watched it
• Who you watched it with
And explain why you felt disappointed.
A movie that I watched that I was disappointed by was Jurassic World. I’m a massive Jurassic
Park fan but the two movies prior to Jurassic World - The Lost World and Jurassic Park 3 - were
pretty mediocre so when I heard that a new Jurassic Park movie was being made with a new cast
and a new setting, I was excited since I believed at the time that the franchise was heading in the
right direction. I was truly looking forward to a reimagining and updating of a classic.
When it finally came out, I bought my tickets beforehand and went to the theatre with my friends
who were also excited for a new Jurassic Park movie. However, as the film dragged on, I was
more and more disappointed with every passing minute. It became so boring by the halfway
mark that I desperately wanted the movie to end so that I could go home and watch an actual
good movie instead. I thought about walking out but opted not to. Some of my friends felt the
same way but others enjoyed it purely because of the dinosaur special effects.
I was disappointed in Jurassic World because the characters were poorly developed and
inconsistent. They were basically two-dimensional cliches without any believable backstory to
set them apart from any other typical action movie. The romantic plotline was forced and the
main stars lacked any real chemistry - I could have done without that part. I also wasn’t blown
away by the visual effects in the movie though they weren’t awful or anything. All of the
dinosaurs were computer generated and none of them were made with models or robots - they
seemed lifeless and weightless when projected on the big screen. I think the franchise has lost
its charm and they should pack it in at this point.
74
13. Describe an exciting adventure you would like to go on
You should say:
• Where you would like to go to
• Who you would like to go with
• How the adventure is
And explain why it is a great adventure.
I’ve always been the type of person who has itchy feet so I think that someday I’ll venture out
into the Amazon rainforest. I’ve heard so many wonderful things about it so I would like to see
it for myself. The rainforest itself encompasses almost all of Brazil as well as some parts of
neighboring countries - Venezuela, Colombia and Bolivia. I know from all those BBC nature
documentaries that it's home to a variety of species ranging from rare birds to plants used for
medicinal purposes. The Amazon is also the home of numerous indigenous tribes who still do
their best to retain their traditional way of life and not succumb to modernization.
I’d really love to travel to the Amazon with some of my like-minded friends who share the same
sense of adventure. I guess they’d be keen to come along because they’re just as into nature as I
am. There’s a risk that the Amazon rainforest will be very different in the future - it’s being cut
down at an alarming rate so best to see it while it’s totally intact. I think we’ll have to book a
ticket to fly to Brazil first and then find a travel company that organizes tours to the Amazon at
a reasonable rate and then we’ll be able to head out there.
I think it’ll be quite the adventure to go to the Amazon as it's so vast that you can explore for an
entire lifetime and there’ll still be places and things that are uncovered. Also, it’ll be gripping to
learn what kinds of animals and plants live there and how important it is to preserve the rainforest
since it exerts a huge influence on the global environment.
75
14. Describe an important decision
You should say:
• What the decision was
• When you took the decision
• What the results of the decision was
And explain why you made that decision.
Today I want to share with you one of the most significant decisions in my life, which related to
my results in the National Entrance Exam in 2015.
At that time, I was a fresh high-school graduate without any life experience and interest in any
specific subject. I got quite a high mark in the exam; therefore, many opportunities were opened
up for me. My family advised me to take a course in Economics at Foreign Trade University,
which is one of the leading institutions in Vietnam. But figures and formulas were not my forte
back then, so I was reluctant to follow their advice. My parents and sister said that I could get a
job with a lucrative income after university, but I decided to attend Hanoi University to study
English instead. I was of two minds at that time, being afraid of making a wrong decision and
my whole life could be turned upside down. I even imagined myself not being able to find a job
and being unemployed someday without any specific set of skills. My family tried to convince
me to follow their advice, but I was determined and said I would be responsible for my life
decisions. I was wondering about it for the first two years of university, but the results turned
out to be good.
Thanks to enthusiastic lecturers, my interest for research and pedagogy were stimulated and I
have honed my skills to become a capable teacher of English. I now have a good income and a
high level of job satisfaction. I am thankful that my family always supports me, and I am also
elated at my current job status and living standards.
76
15. Describe a good advertisement that you think is useful
You should say:
• Where you can see it
• What it shows
• Why you think it is useful
And explain how you feel about it.
I’d like to talk about an advertisement I've been seeing recently that really stands out to me for
some reason.
You can usually catch it during commercial breaks on TV, especially during prime time. Also,
I've noticed it a couple of times on those big digital billboards all around the city.
The advertisement is for this new shampoo brand. It starts with the woman with visibly frizzy,
dry hair, struggling to comb it down into something manageable. But as she starts using the
shampoo, there's a transformation and her hair gets smoother, shinier, and just overall healthier.
You can see this by the graphics on the screen and the well-timed music.
Well, besides the obvious transformation, what makes this advertisement particularly
memorable is its informative approach. It details the key ingredients, I remember argan oil and
keratin, and explains their respective roles in maintaining healthy hair. This educational
approach provides consumers with a clear understanding of why these ingredients are beneficial,
going beyond a simple "buy our product because it's great" message.
Personally, I found the ad refreshingly different from typical shampoo commercials out there.
It’s not just a glamorous model showing off flawless hair - it's relatable, educational, and to the
point. After watching it, I decided to give the shampoo a try, not only because it promised
positive results but also because they were transparent about the ingredients that I'd be putting
in my hair.
I found the shampoo to be pretty good - my hair feels healthier and there is a certain shine to it.
I’m not sure if that’s a placebo effect or not, but it certainly works for me!
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Cách sử dụng tài liệu:

Chúc các bạn học tập thật tốt!

4. Describe an old friend you got in contact with again

6. Describe a person you know who likes to help others

7. Describe a person who enjoys cooking for others

10. Describe a person who has interesting ideas and opinions

Rattle something off Nói một tràng dài

Be instrumental in Đóng vai trò quan trọng

Temperament Tính khí

Much to someone's dismay Rất buồn, rất thất vọng

Laid - back Thư thái, ung dung

On the spot Ngay lập tức

Embolden Làm cho bạo dạn

To the fullest Trọn vẹn, trân trọng hết mức có thể

Right off the bat Ngay từ ban đầu

A deep dive on Nghiên cứu kĩ lưỡng về

Philanthropist work Công việc từ thiện

Lag behind Tụt hậu so với ai đó.

In times of need Trong những lúc cần thiết

Pick someone's brain Tham khảo ý kiến

Intermediary Bên trung gian

Cross someone's path Tình cờ gặp

Side-eye Vẻ mặt tỏ ý nghi ngờ, khinh bỉ

Pick up on Nhận ra điều gì

Chime in Tham gia

Out-of-the-box Đặc biệt, đáng chú ý

Parrot Nhại lại

Fend for yourself Tự bảo vệ mình

Spell the doom Gieo rắc sự diệt vong

Follow in someone's footsteps Làm theo gương ai

Have a knack for Có tài

Revive Hồi sinh

Take something to heart Để bụng/để trong lòng

Whip something up Chuẩn bị nhanh thứ gì đó để ăn

Run an errand Chạy việc vặt

Stick something out Tiếp tục làm gì đó dù khó khăn.

Block party Bữa tiệc đường phố

Link Cram: https://www.cram.com/flashcards/gii-b-d-d-doan-ielts-speaking-q3-2023-part-2-

Ultimately, gifting an expensive wristwatch like a Rolex appeals to me because it’s a

4. Describe a product you want to buy from a foreign country

5. Describe a book you want to read again

6. Describe a traditional costume that you like

Have your eye on something Muốn có thứ gì

Blow someone's mind Khiến ai thấy rất ấn tượng

Delve into something Nghiên cứu kĩ lưỡng

Dilemma Tình huống tiến thoái lưỡng nan

Page-turner Cuốn sách thú vị, đáng đọc

Partner in crime Anh chị em, bạn bè chí cốt

Camaraderie Tình bạn, tình đồng chí

Kneel Quỳ gối

Art aficionado Người đam mê nghệ thuật

Lousy with something Đầy rẫy, lắm, nhiều

Grin Cười toe toét

Ostentatious Khoe khoang, phô trương

Heirloom Vật gia truyền

Pass down Truyền lại

Pay off Thành công

Auspicious Đầy hứa hẹn

Suspense Tình trạng chờ đợi

Embark on Bắt tay vào

Covet Thèm muốn

Signify Báo hiệu