SPEAKING - GROUP 5

TOPIC 1: FOOD

Part 1: Introduction and Personal Questions

Q: Can you tell me about the types of food that are popular in your country?

A: In my country, a variety of foods are popular, ranging from traditional dishes

to international cuisines. For example, we have dishes like [mention a
traditional dish] and also enjoy exploring foods from different cultures.

WORD ENGLISH MEANING VIETNAMESE EXAMPLE

MEANING

Sự đa dạng, tính
variety several different sorts chất không như There is a wide
of the same thing nhau; trạng thái variety of
khác nhau, trạng patterns to
thái muôn màu choose from.
muôn vẻ

traditiona foods and dishes that những món ăn traditional dishes

l dishes are passed on through truyền thống in Vietnam
generations or which include Phở,
have been consumed Bánh Mì,…
for many generations

With the ease of

internatio the national cuisine of ẩm thực quốc tế travelling to
nal a country prepared in various countries,
cuisines another country people have
become well
aware of the
various
international
cuisine varieties
 exploring to travel to or around Khám phá Westerners did
an area or a country in not set out to
order to learn about it explore the world
until the fifteenth
century.

cultures the customs and Nền văn hóa Cooking is a

beliefs, art, way of life hugely important
and social organization part of French
of a particular country culture.
or group

Q: What is your favorite type of cuisine, and why do you like it?

A: I'm a big fan of Italian cuisine. The combination of rich flavors and the use of
fresh ingredients always appeals to me. Pasta and pizza are my favorites, and I
appreciate the emphasis on simple yet high-quality components in Italian
cooking.

WORD ENGLISH VIETNAMESE EXAMPLE

MEANING MEANING
combination two or more sự kết hợp They recommend
things joined or reducing
mixed together expenditure,
to form a single increasing taxes,
unit or a combination
of the two.
You can use it to Hương vị phong This soup is rich
rich flavors describe food, phú in flavor, with a
drinks, or subtle hint of
anything else herbs and spices.
that has a strong
or distinctive
taste.
those that have nguyên liệu tươi It’s always best
fresh ingredients not been to use fresh
 processed or ingredients when
have added cooking because
chemicals to it makes the final
prevent spoiling dish taste better
and also allows
you to get more
nutrients from
your meals.
Quality thành phần chất We also talked a
high-quality ingredients can lượng cao lot about using
components have a true the best quality
impact on the ingredients.
taste of food that
is served at a
restaurant.

Q: How often do you eat out at restaurants? What kind of restaurants do you
usually go to?

A: I try to eat out at restaurants once or twice a week. I usually go to casual

places with friends, but occasionally, I like to explore fine dining restaurants for
special occasions.

WORD ENGLISH VIETNAMESE EXAMPLE

MEANING MEANING
bình thường family parties and
casual
not formal other casual
occasions

an important day những dịp đặc I only wear a suit

special occasions. or event for special
biệt. occasions.

Q: Do you enjoy cooking? Why or why not?

A: I do enjoy cooking, especially on weekends. It's a therapeutic activity for me.
I find joy in experimenting with new recipes and creating meals from scratch.
It's not just about the end result; the process itself is quite rewarding.

WORD ENGLISH VIETNAMESE EXAMPLE

MEANING MEANING
restorative hoạt động trị Therapeutic
therapeutic activities activities involve
liệu functional or real
activity designed to life movements
maintain or
improve the
quality of one's
life or delay
deterioration of
skills.
a set of công thức nấu ăn She eventually
recipes instructions that convinced her
tells you how to mother to share
cook something the recipe.
and the
ingredients (=
items of food)
you need for it

to rub your skin cào The dog

scratch with your nails, scratched itself
usually because it behind the ear.
is itching

Q: What are some traditional dishes in your culture, and do you like them?

A: In my culture, we have traditional dishes like [mention a dish]. I do enjoy

them, especially during festivals and family gatherings. The flavors and the
cultural significance attached to these dishes make them special.
 WORD ENGLISH VIETNAMESE EXAMPLE
MEANING MEANING
a series of lễ hội The pub is
festivals performances of holding its annual
music, plays, beer festival later
films, etc., usually this week.
organized in the
same place once
a year; a series of
public events
connected with a
particular activity
or idea

when họp mặt gia đình family gatherings

family gatherings immediate generally are
family, “ limited to a
parents and specific section of
children” get a family, such as
together for siblings
dinner or for a
period of time.

Part 2: Long Turn

Describe a meal did you had experienced

- Where you had the meal

- What you ate

- Who you were with

and explain why it was memorable for you.

A: I would like to recount a memorable meal I had during my visit to Vietnam last year.
It took place in a bustling street-side eatery in Hanoi, the capital city.

The dish that left a lasting impression on me was Pho, a traditional Vietnamese
noodle soup. I opted for the beef pho, which consisted of thin rice noodles immersed
in a flavorful broth, accompanied by tender slices of beef, fresh herbs, and lime. The
dish was topped with bean sprouts and chili, allowing for a personalized touch to suit
individual preferences.

I was fortunate to share this culinary experience with a group of fellow travelers I had
met during my journey. We gathered around a communal table, sitting on small plastic
stools that lined the sidewalk. The atmosphere was vibrant, with the sounds of street

and the aromas of various dishes wafting through the air.

What made this meal truly memorable was not only the delicious and fragrant Pho but
also the communal dining experience and the cultural immersion. Conversations
flowed effortlessly among us, as we exchanged stories and marveled at the
authenticity of the street-side setting. The warmth of the people, the unique flavors of
the cuisine, and the lively ambiance of the place created a memorable blend that
captured the essence of Vietnamese hospitality. It was more than just a meal; it was a
shared adventure and a glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese culture, making it an
unforgettable experience for me.

a bustling street-side eatery: một quán ăn ven đường nhộn nhịp

immersed: đắm mình

accompanied: đi kèm

tender : mềm

herbs: Thảo mộc

bean sprouts: giá đỗ

fortunate: may mắn

culinary experience: trải nghiệm ẩm thực

communal: cộng đồng

stools: ghế đẩu

vibrant: sôi động

a personalized touch: một chút cá nhân hóa

aromas: hương thơm

wafting: bay bổng

fragrant: thơm

effortlessly: dễ dàng

marveled: kinh ngạc

ambiance: bầu không khí

Part 3: Discussion on the Topic

Q: How has the availability of international cuisines in your country changed

over the years?
A: Over time, the food scene in my country has changed a lot. Because of
globalization, there's more international food available now. People can easily
get different types of food from around the world. This shows that people are
more open to different cultures, and it makes eating out more interesting and
diverse.

Globalization: toàn cầu hóa

The food scene: bối cảnh ẩm thực

International: quốc tế

Cuisines: ẩm thực

Q: Do you think people's eating habits have changed in recent years? Why or
why not?

A: Absolutely, there has been a noticeable change in how people eat lately.
Because of busy lives, many individuals are opting for convenient and fast food
options. However, there is also a growing awareness of the importance of
healthy eating, leading to an increased demand for organic and nutritious
foods. Thus, people’s eating habits are getting healthier each year.

Individuals: cá nhân

Opting: lựa chọn

Awareness: nhận thức

organic and nutritious foods: thực phẩm hữu cơ và bổ dưỡng

Q: How can a country's traditional food contribute to its tourism industry?

A: A country's traditional food plays a crucial role in attracting tourists and

enhancing the overall tourism experience. Traditional dishes are often a unique
expression of a nation's culture and history. When visitors have the opportunity
to taste authentic local cuisine, it creates a memorable cultural experience.
This, in turn, can lead to positive word-of-mouth recommendations and
contribute significantly to the growth of the tourism industry by showcasing
the distinctive flavors and culinary traditions of the region.

Unique expression : biểu hiện độc đáo

Authentic: đích thực

Memorable: đáng nhớ

Showcasing: thể hiện

distinctive : đặc trưng

Q: In your opinion, how does the trend of eating out versus cooking at home
impact society?

A: The choice between eating out and cooking at home has significant effects
on society. On the one hand, the preference for dining out mirrors lifestyle
changes and a focus on convenience. However, it also brings up worries about
a possible decrease in important cooking abilities and family closeness. Even
though eating out can be a social activity, the practice of cooking and sharing
meals at home nurtures a feeling of community and family ties, which is
important for a strong and connected society.

Preference: sở thích

Mirror: phản ánh

Nurtures: nuôi dưỡng

Q: What role do you think food education should play in schools, and how
can it benefit students?
A: Teaching about food in schools is really important for students' well-being.
It's not just about learning how to cook; it also covers why nutrition matters,
knowing where food comes from, and making good choices for health. By
including food education in the school curriculum, students can build a lasting
awareness of their eating habits, which can lead to better health. It also makes
students more responsible and thankful.

well-being: phúc lợi

Curriculum: chương trình giảng dạy

TOPIC 3: HOBBIES AND PASTIMES

Part 1: Introduction and Personal Questions

Q: What hobbies are popular in your country?

A: Well, I think hobbies are very important for people to have in their lives,
because they can help them relax, have fun, and express themselves. In my
country, which is Vietnam, there are many different kinds of hobbies that
people enjoy.

One of the most popular hobbies in my country is playing traditional games like
đu quay, bầu cua, and xích đu. These games are very old and have a lot of
history and culture behind them. They are also very fun and exciting. People
play them with their friends or family, and sometimes they even join
tournaments or festivals. Playing these games can also improve one’s skills,
strategy, and teamwork.

Another popular hobby in my country is watching traditional shows like ca trù,

chèo đèn lồng, and múa lân. These shows are also very old and have a lot of art
and beauty in them. They are performed by talented artists who wear colorful
costumes and makeup. They tell stories from the legends or the history of my
country. Watching these shows can also increase one’s appreciation of culture,
creativity, and diversity.

These are some of the hobbies that are popular in my country. Of course, there
are many other hobbies that people have as well, such as reading books,
listening to music, gardening, cooking, etc. I think hobbies are a great way to
spend one’s free time and to learn new things.

→ Meaning:

1. tournaments (n): thi đấu

2. festival (n): lễ hội
3. legends (n): huyền thoại
4. history (n): lịch sử
5. appreciation (n): sự trân trọng

Q: What do you do in your free time?

A: Hobbies and pastimes are activities that people do for fun or relaxation in
their free time. For me, I will do some activities like:

- Play games: Games can be a fun way to challenge yourself, compete

with others, and have fun. Some people like to play games on their
computers, consoles, or mobile devices. Others like to play games with
their friends or family. Playing games can also help you improve your
cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities.
- Do sports: Sports can be a healthy way to exercise your body, improve
your fitness, and release your energy. Some people like to do sports
alone, while others like to join teams or clubs. Doing sports can also help
you build your confidence and teamwork skills.
- Learn something new: Learning something new can be a rewarding way
to expand your knowledge, skills, and interests. Some people like to learn
something new online, while others like to take courses or workshops.
Learning something new can also help you discover new passions and
hobbies.

→ Meaning:

1. console (v;n): an ủi
2. cognitive skills (n) = experience (n): kinh nghiệm
3. problem-solving abilities: khả năng giải quyết vấn đề
4. confidence (n): sự tự tin
5. rewarding (v): trao thưởng
6. discover new passions: khám phá những đam mê mới

Q: Has your favorite thing changed since childhood?

A: My favorite thing since childhood is reading books. I like reading books

because they are informative, entertaining, and inspiring. They allow me to
learn new things, experience different emotions, and imagine new possibilities.
They also help me improve my language skills and broaden my horizons.

My favorite thing has changed a lot since childhood. When I was younger, I
used to read books that were mostly fiction or fantasy. They were stories that
involved magic, adventure, and mystery. They were more about the plot and
the characters than the facts or the messages.
However, as I grew older, I started to read more non-fiction or realistic books.
They are books that are based on facts, events, or issues. They are more about
the information and the analysis than the imagination or the entertainment.
Some examples of how my favorite thing has influenced my life or interests are:
- Reading books has enhanced my knowledge and understanding of
various topics such as history, science, and culture.
- Reading books has also increased my curiosity and interest in different
perspectives and opinions.
- Reading books has motivated me to pursue more goals and dreams.
→ Meaning:

1. broaden my horizons (phr.): mở rộng tầm nhìn

2. fiction (n): sự hư cấu
3. fantasy (n): sự tưởng tượng
4. involved (v): có liên quan
5. adventure (n): cuộc phiêu lưu
6. curiosity (n): sự tò mò
7. perspective (n): góc nhìn
8. pursue (v): theo đuổi

Q: What sort of hobbies would you like to try in the future?

A: Some of my hobbies are playing chess, gardening, and painting. I like playing
chess because it is a game that challenges my mind, improves my strategic
thinking, and teaches me patience and concentration. I also enjoy gardening
because it is a hobby that relaxes me, beautifies my surroundings, and
connects me with nature. I also like painting because it is a hobby that
expresses my creativity, enhances my artistic skills, and brings me joy.

Some of the hobbies that I would like to try in the future are learning a new
language, playing an instrument, and volunteering for a cause. I would like to
learn a new language because it is a hobby that opens up new opportunities,
cultures, and perspectives. I would also like to play an instrument because it is
a hobby that develops my musical talent, improves my memory and
coordination, and reduces my stress. I would also like to volunteer for a cause
because it is a hobby that contributes to society, helps others in need, and
makes me feel good.
→ Meaning:
1. strategic (n): chiến lược
2. patience (n): tính kiên nhẫn
3. concentration (n): sự kiên nhẫn
4. surroundings (n): vùng lân cận
5. enhances (n): tăng cường
 6. volunteering (n): hoạt động tình nguyện
7. perspectives (n): quan điểm

Part 2: Long Turn

Describe an interest or hobby that you enjoy.

You should say:

- How you became interested in it

- How long you have been doing it

- Why you enjoy it

and explain what benefits you get from this interest or hobby.

A: One of my interests or hobbies that I enjoy is painting. Painting is a hobby

that involves creating and expressing art using various materials and
techniques. It is done by people who have a sense of aesthetics, a passion for
colors, and a desire to communicate their emotions.
I became interested in painting when I was a young adult. My uncle used to
paint some landscapes and portraits and showed me his work. He also gave me
some brushes, paints, and canvases to try it myself. I enjoyed painting because
it was fun, creative, and therapeutic. It also helped me express myself and my
feelings.
I have been painting for about 3 years now. I have learned a lot from studying
different styles, movements, and masters of painting. I have also joined some
online courses and workshops to improve my skills and learn new techniques. I
enjoy painting because it keeps me busy, inspired, and happy. It also helps me
improve my artistic skills such as observation, composition, and color theory.
Some of the benefits that I get from this interest or hobby are:
● Painting improves my artistic skills such as observation, composition, and
color theory.
● Painting also enhances my emotional skills such as self-expression,
empathy, and communication.
 ● Painting inspires me to learn more about different cultures, histories,
and stories.

→ Meaning:

1. aesthetics (n): tính thẩm mỹ

2. landscapes (n): phong cảnh
3. canvases (n): bức vẽ
4. therapeutic (n): trị liệu
5. observation (n): sự quan sát
6. composition (n): thành phần
7. self-expression (n): sự thể hiện bản thân
8. empathy (n): sự đồng cảm

Part 3: Discussion on the Topic

Question 1: How do you think people's choice of hobbies has changed over
the years?

I believe there has been a significant change in people's choice of hobbies over
the years. In the past, traditional hobbies like reading, gardening, and painting
were more common. However, with the advent of technology, many people
now engage in digital hobbies like gaming, blogging, and online content
creation. The digital age has significantly influenced the types of hobbies
people pursue.

Advent: sự xuất hiện

Engage: tham gia

Pursue: theo đuổi.

Question 2: Do you think hobbies are important for maintaining a healthy

work-life balance? Why or why not?

Absolutely, I think hobbies play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life

balance. Engaging in hobbies provides a way to unwind and relax, allowing
individuals to recharge after a busy day at work. Hobbies also offer a creative
outlet and a means of self-expression, contributing positively to mental well-
being. They help balance the pressures of work, making life more complete and
satisfying.
Unwind: thư giãn

creative outlet: lối sáng tạo

a means of self-expression: một phương tiện thể hiện bản thân

Question 3: How can pursuing hobbies contribute to personal development?

Pursuing hobbies can contribute significantly to personal development.

Hobbies often require skill development, problem-solving, and creativity. For
example, someone who takes up photography may learn about composition
and lighting. Hobbies can also enhance time management and discipline.
Moreover, they provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals,
fostering social skills and networks that contribute to personal growth.

composition : bố cục

Discipline: kỷ luật

like-minded individuals: những các nhân có cùng ý chí

Fostering: bồi dưỡng

Question 4: In what ways can traditional hobbies benefit a person compared

to modern ones?

Traditional hobbies offer unique benefits compared to modern ones. For

instance, activities like gardening or painting allow individuals to connect with
nature and engage in a tactile and physical experience. Traditional hobbies
often promote relaxation and stress relief in a way that some modern digital
hobbies may not. Additionally, many traditional hobbies encourage patience,
perseverance which are very important.

tactile : xúc giác

Promote, encourage : khuyến khích

Perseverance: kiên trì

TOPIC 8: COLOURS

PART 1:

1. What is your favorite colour?

I would say I love black color. This is because it can match everything, so I don’t
have to worry about finding a piece of clothes that goes along with a black item.
Besides, I prefer minimal style with small patterns and something that’s not too
vibrant, and black suits me the best.

● match everything: hợp với mọi thứ

● goes along with: hợp với, hài hoà với
● minimal style: phong cách tối giản
● patterns: hoạ tiết
● vibrant: sống động
● suits: phù hợp

2. What is the colour that you dislike?

White is definitely not my cup of tea. It’s mainly because this color easily gets
dirty. In addition, wearing white colors on a regular basis requires good care by
the owner since they will fade and stain over time. To be honest, I haven’t been
able to keep any white shirts for over a year.

● not my cup of tea: không phải sở thích của tôi

● easily gets dirty: dễ bẩn
● requires good care: đòi hỏi chăm sóc kỹ
● fade and stain: bị phai và ố

3. What colors do you want to paint your house with?

If I could buy a new accommodation and had a chance to decorate it myself, I

would paint the interiors with light green. Among other colors, I believe that green
is easy on the eye. Imagine coming back home after a long working day, all we
want is something that can refresh our mind and comfort us, and green is not a
bad choice.

● decorate: trang trí

● interiors: nội thất
● easy on the eye: dễ nhìn
 ● refresh our mind: làm tươi mới đầu óc
● not a bad choice: không phải là lựa chọn tệ

4. What colour makes you feel uncomfortable in your room?

Unlike the majority of people, I can’t go with the color red in my room. It’s going
to make my room look darker and palemost of my interior furniture. Besides,
red is normally related to scary symbols such as blood or demons. As a person
who is afraid of darkness, I can’t deal with this dull atmosphere. I would cope
with nightmares every night for sure.

● darker: tối hơn

● pale: làm lu mờ
● interior furniture: nội thất
● symbols: biểu tượng
● dull atmosphere: không khí ảm đạm
● nightmares: ác mộng

5. Do you usually wear clothes in your favorite color?

Surprisingly, I don’t. Even though I’m a huge fan of green color, I don’t often
wear it when I go out. It’s primarily because it would be too much if I put all the
green on my body. Meanwhile, I prefer to portrait an image of being
professional and mature when I’m in public. Besides, I don’t think this color
flatters my skin tone.

● I’m a huge fan of: người hâm mộ lớn của

● be too much: bị hơi quá
● portrait an image: khắc hoạ một hình ảnh
● professional and mature: chuyên nghiệp và chính chắn
● flatters my skin tone: tôn da

Từ vựng chủ đề Color

● Impression (n): sự ấn tượng

● Colorful (a): sặc sỡ
● Vibrant (a): sôi động, sặc sỡ
● Dark (a): tối
● Bright (a): sáng
● Light (a): nhạt, nhẹ
● Striking (a): nổi bật
● Stroll (v): tản bộ
 ● Vivid (a): sống động
● Lively (a): sinh động
● Dull (a): ảm đạm
● Wonderland (n): xứ sở thần tiên
● Calm (a): diu, nhẹ

PART 2

1, What is your favorite color and Was this your favorite color when
you were a child?
I think white is the color that I resonate with the most. I like the
simple yet elegant vibe that the color possesses. Although owning
white accessories and belongings can look clean and aesthetic to
the wearer, white-painted materials tend to age pretty quickly. So
white is not my color choice when purchasing products, but I still
like it anyway.It wasn’t, actually. I used to like black when I was a
kid, probably a result of watching too much Batman. I mean, he is
the most badass superhero ever. Everything that belongs to him is
covered in black, from his suit, his equipment to his car and
motorbike. He was and still is, my greatest superhero, and black is
still one of my favorite colors.
● To resonate with: Có cảm hứng với
● To be elegant: Thanh tao
● Aesthetic: Có tính nghệ thuật
● To age: Cũ đi

PART 3
1. Some people say that certain colors are more suitable for specific
occasions (e.g., black for formal events). Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Suggested answer: I agree that certain colors are more suitable for specific
occasions. For example, black is often considered a formal color and is commonly
worn at events like weddings or business meetings. It exudes elegance and
sophistication. On the other hand, bright and vibrant colors might be more
appropriate for casual or festive occasions. Wearing the right color for an event can
help create the desired atmosphere and convey the appropriate message.
 2. What is the significance of colors in your country's culture or
traditions?

Suggested answer: In my country, colors hold great significance in our culture and
traditions. For example, during festivals and celebrations, specific colors are often
associated with different events. In traditional weddings, red is considered
auspicious and symbolizes good fortune and happiness. Similarly, during religious
ceremonies, white is commonly worn as a symbol of purity and devotion. These
color traditions add a vibrant and meaningful element to our cultural festivities.

3. Do you think colors can influence people's purchasing

decisions? Why or why not?

Suggested answer: Yes, colors can certainly influence people's purchasing

decisions. Research has shown that colors can evoke certain emotions and
associations, which can impact consumer behavior. For example, warm colors like
red or orange can create a sense of urgency or excitement, encouraging impulse
purchases. Additionally, colors can also be used to establish brand identity and
recognition, making consumers more likely to choose a product or service
associated with a familiar and appealing color scheme.

4. How important are colors in advertising and marketing? Can you

give some examples?

Suggested answer: Colors play a crucial role in advertising and marketing. They
have the power to capture attention, convey messages, and create associations with
brands. For instance, many fast-food chains use red and yellow in their logos and
designs to stimulate appetite and convey a sense of energy. Similarly, luxury brands
often use gold or silver to represent prestige and exclusivity. Colors are carefully
chosen to evoke specific emotions and influence consumer behavior.

Nghĩa tiếng anh Nghĩa tiếng Việt Ví dụ

suitable(a right or appropriate for a thích hợp The film is not

dj) particular purpose or occasion suitable for children.

exude(v) If you exude love, confidence, bộc lộ She just exudes

pain, etc., you show that you confidence
have a lot of that feeling

elegance(a the quality of being graceful and tao nhã It was her natural
dj) attractive in appearance or elegance that struck
behaviour me.

sophistica the quality of having a good tinh xảo

tion(n) understanding of the way people
behave and/or a good
knowledge of culture and
fashion
festive(adj having or producing happy and như lễ hội The hall looked very
) enjoyable feelings suitable for a festive with its
festival or other special occasion Christmas tree.

convey(v) to express a thought, feeling, or chuyển His poetry conveys

idea so that it is understood by a great sense of
other people religious devotion.

auspiciou suggesting a positive and thuận lợi Our first meeting

s(adj) successful future was not auspicious -
we had a huge
argument

purity the state of not being mixed with thuần khiết the atrocities carried
anything else out in the name of
ethnic/racial purity

devotion(n loyalty and love or care for tận tụy He inspired respect
) someone or something and devotion from
his pupil

vibrant(adj energetic, exciting, and full of ngân vang a vibrant young

) enthusiasm performer

evoke(v) to make someone remember gợi nhớ That smell always

something or feel an emotion evokes memories of
my old school

urgency(n) the quality of being very khẩn cấp She stressed the
important and needing attention urgency of an early
immediately solution.
Topic 13: WEATHER

PART 1

1. What is the weather like where you live?

The weather in Vietnam where I live is generally warm and tropical. Summers
can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30-35 degrees
Celsius. It is normal to have occasional showers during the summer months.
The rainy season is milder, with temperatures ranging from 20-25 degrees
Celsius.

● tropical (adj): (thuộc về) nhiệt đới

● humid (adj): ẩm
● mild (adj): ôn hòa, dịu nhẹ vừa phải

2. What do you think are the effects of climate change in recent years?

Well, there has been countless evidence of climate change lately. I’ve read
about iconic cities like Venice and Jakarta sinking because of rising sea levels
caused by melting glaciers. And it’s not just about cities. The rippling effects of
global warming also include habitat loss, pushing several species closer to the
brink of extinction. Here in Saigon, it has become apparent that the rainy
season starts earlier and lasts longer compared to 20 years ago. And summers
have never been hotter!

· Sea level (n) mực nước biển

· Glacier (n) sông băng

· Habitat loss (n) sự mất môi trường sống

· Brink (n) bờ vực

3. Are you in the habit of checking the weather forecast? When/ How
often?

Honestly, I don’t check the weather much these days because it’s pretty
predictable here in Saigon. I make a point of carrying a raincoat and an
umbrella with me all the time, just in case. But when I lived in Melbourne, it
was a different story. The weather there could change like crazy! Like, the
morning could be bright and sunny and a nice 20 degrees Celsius, but it
 could shoot up to 40 by 3pm, and then drop to 10 by sunset. Back then, I
always had to look up the weather forecast on my phone before heading
out, just to dress appropriately and figure out whether I should drive or
take public transport.

· Make a point of doing something (idiom): luôn nhớ làm một việc
gì đó

· Head out (phrasal verb): ra ngoài

4. Would you like to visit other cities that have different climates from
where you live?

Yes, I would love to visit cities with different climates from where I live.
Living in a city with a warm and tropical climate, I am curious to experience
the distinct seasons and cooler temperatures in other parts of the world.
Exploring cities with a snowy winter or colorful autumn would be a
delightful change from the perpetual summer I'm accustomed to.

● snowy (adj): có tuyết rơi

● perpetual (adj): vĩnh hằng, vĩnh viễn

5. Does the weather ever affect what you do?

Oh yeah, definitely! In Saigon, most of us get around on bikes, so when it’s

pouring rain, we prefer to stay indoors. Riding a motorbike in the rain is
basically asking for trouble. On top of that, between 11 am and 4 pm, it’s
scorching hot outside. I’d sweat buckets in less than five minutes if I dared to
step out into the blazing sun. So, if I see rain on the horizon or temperatures
soaring above 35 degrees Celsius, you bet I’ll cancel my plans.

· Asking for trouble (idiom) gây rắc rối

· Scorching hot (adj) rất nóng

· On the horizon (idiom) sắp xảy ra

PART 2
Describe your favorite season of the year

You should say:

• What the weather is like.

• Why you like this season.

• What activities you usually do during this season.

• How different kinds of weather in this season affect people.

Today, I am going to tell you about my favourite season. Honestly, I love all the
seasons but I think my favourite is spring. Usually, it starts at the end of
December in our country and lasts till the middle of March.

The weather in Vietnam is the best during spring because you will not suffer
from the excessive heat of summer or the freezing wind of winter. The
temperature is tolerable both day and night. One of the best things about
spring is that, during this poetic season, nature displays itself in beautiful green
and flowers are noticed everywhere. Fruit trees, such as cherry and apricot
trees are in full blossom, and colourful flowers such as daffodils and marigolds
bloom in parks and gardens. The sounds of spring are wonderful too. A typical
spring day will begin when some birds start their morning chorus as they look
for a mate. We also celebrate Tet, one of the most anticipated holidays by the
Vietnamese people. This is an occasion for pilgrimages, family reunions and
many festivals. Parties full of delicious traditional dishes are the main theme
for the whole holiday of Tet.

I am of the opinion that different kinds of weather can affect people’s health.
Even among those in the prime of health, an excessively hot or cold day can
lead to illness or injury, let alone the elderly, who can be more susceptible to
extreme weather conditions. Weather can also make a huge impact on
people’s lives. Obviously, the weather dictates what you are going to wear for
the day, often depending on the time of year. Also, winter snow storms in
Western countries can cancel school or make your morning commute a hassle.

· suffer from: bị ảnh hưởng nặng nề bởi

· excessive: quá mức

· tolerable: có thể chịu được

· in full blossom: nở rộ

· morning chorus: điệp khúc buổi sáng, tiếng chim hót buổi sáng

· pilgrimage: hành hương

· in the prime of: trong giai đoạn thành công nhất

· susceptible: nhạy cảm

· dictate: ra lệnh

· hassle: rắc rối

PART 3
1. Are there any traditional festivals or celebrations in your country that
are influenced by the weather?

Suggested answer: Yes, there are several traditional festivals in my country that are
influenced by the weather. For example, during the spring season, we celebrate a
festival called "Songkran," which marks the Thai New Year. It involves water-related
activities, such as water fights and splashing water on each other. This festival
coincides with the hottest time of the year and provides a fun way to cool down and
embrace the summer season.

2. How does the weather influence people's clothing choices in your

country?

Suggested answer: The weather certainly influences people's clothing choices in my

country. During hot summers, people tend to wear light and breathable clothing such
as shorts, t-shirts, and summer dresses to stay cool. In contrast, during the colder
months, people dress in layers, wearing sweaters, jackets, scarves, and hats to keep
warm. Rainy or snowy weather prompts the use of waterproof jackets, boots, and
umbrellas to stay dry. Overall, people adjust their clothing choices based on the
current weather conditions.

3. How do people in your country typically prepare for different weather

conditions?

Suggested answer: People in my country are accustomed to the changing weather

patterns, so they prepare accordingly. For instance, during the summer, they ensure
they have sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect themselves from the strong
sun. In winter, they wear warm clothing, such as coats, scarves, and gloves, and
may use heating systems in their homes to stay comfortable. During the rainy
season, people carry umbrellas and wear waterproof jackets or boots to stay dry.

4. Does the weather have an impact on tourism in your country? How?

Suggested answer: Yes, the weather has a significant impact on tourism in my

country. Many tourists are attracted to destinations with favorable weather
conditions. For example, during the summer, beach resorts and coastal areas tend
to attract a large number of tourists who come to enjoy the sun, sand, and water
activities. In contrast, during the winter, mountainous regions become popular for
skiing and snowboarding. Tourists often plan their trips based on the weather
forecast to ensure they can make the most of their visit and engage in weather-
dependent activities.

Nghĩa tiếng anh Nghĩa tiếng Việt Ví dụ

water-related a use or activity liên quan tới nước

that is not directly
dependent upon
access to a water
body, but which
provides goods or
services that are
directly associated
with water-
dependence

splash If a liquid tung tóe Water was

splashes or if you splashing from a
splash a liquid, it hole in the roof.
falls on or hits
something or
someone

coincide to happen at or trùng khớp I timed my

near the same holiday to
time coincide with the
children's.

embrace to accept đón nhận This was an

something opportunity that
enthusiastically he would
embrace.
breathable Breathable fabrics thông thoáng (cho We produce
for clothes allow quần áo) breathable
air to pass through clothing that is
them. designed for
intense activity.

scarf a strip, square, or khăn quàng He had a woollen

triangle of cloth, scarf around his
worn around the neck
neck, head, or
shoulders to keep
you warm or to
make you look
attractive

prompt to make tức thời The bishop's

something happen speech has
prompted an
angry response
from both political
parties.

accustomed familiar with thường lệ I'm not

something accustomed to
being treated like
this.

weather forecast a statement of dự báo thời tiết

what the weather
is likely to be for
the next day or
few days, usually
broadcast on
television or radio
or printed in a
newspaper