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Practice makes perfect

MS. HUYEN TRANG ULIS

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BÀI THI: NGHE 1 (VSTEP)
Thời gian làm bài: ~ 30 PHÚT
(Bao gồm 05 phút chuyển CTL sang PTL)

Part 1: Questions 1-8


Directions: In this part, you will hear EIGHT short recordings. You will hear each recording ONCE
only. There is one question for each recording. For each question, choose the right answer A, B, C or
D.

1. What is probably true about the speakers?


A. They are working on a school project.
B. They are currently at an art gallery.
C. They are on a field trip.
D. They are taking pictures of the objects

2. What are the speakers mainly talking about?


A. The recent history test that they took
B. How much they enjoy Mr. Warren’s class
C. The chances of having a pop test in class
D. The failure of one of the boys to do the reading

3. What is the student’s problem?


A. He is not paying close attention in class.
B. He is speaking with his friends in class too much.
C. He has gotten low grades on his recent assignments.
D. He finds the material they are studying to be hard.

4. What can be inferred about the boy?


A. He intends to have a science club meeting in a week.
B. He thinks being the president of the science club is too hard.
C. He is no longer interested in the science club.
D. He enjoys working together with Mr. Kipley.

5. What does the girl imply when she says “That’s smart thinking”?
A. She wants to give the boy some help.
B. She has come up with a good idea.
C. She knows how to solve the problem.
D. She supports the boy’s action.

6. What is probably true about the teacher?


A. She enjoyed the girl’s presentation.
B. She is going to prepare the projector.
C. She will give the girl an extension.
D. She forgot about the girl’s assignment.

7. What is the main topic of the announcement?


A. Why the student needs to listen to the teacher
B. How to be safe in the laboratory
C. Which experiment they will conduct
D. The clothes students should wear

8. What does the teacher ask the student to do?


A. Read a passage in their books
B. Name some figures of speech

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C. Write a short poem
D. Think of some similes

Part 2: Questions 9-20


Directions: In this part, you will hear three conversations. The conversations will not be repeated.
There are four questions for each conversation. For each question, choose the right answer A, B, C, or
D.

Questions 9-12. Listen to a conversation on a university campus.

9. What is the woman’s status at the university?


A. She is a senior.
B. She is a junior.
C. She is a transfer student.
D. She is a graduate student.

10. What does the man want to learn from the woman?
A. How to transfer to a junior college.
B. How to find his way around campus.
C. The course requirements for a literature major.
D. Who won the campus election.

11. How many total courses must a student take for a literature major?
A. Three B. Five
C. Eight D. Ten

12. In which area will the man probably take his elective courses?
A. American literature
B. World literature
C. Literary analysis
D. Surveying
Questions 13 to 16. Listen to part of a conversation between two friends.

13. Where did the woman learn about dolphins?


A. In a book B. From a television program
C. During a trip that she took D. From a lecture

14. Why do dolphins use clicks?


A. To communicate with other dolphins B. To recognize objects in the water
C. To learn human language D. To express fear

15. Approximately how many human commands have some dolphins learned?
A. Five B. Fifteen
C. Fifty D. Five hundred

16. What does the man say about dolphin intelligence?


A. It is limited.
B. It is greater than human intelligence.
C. It is less than previously thought.
D. We are beginning to learn how much they have.

Questions 17 to 20. Listen to a conversation between two friends who are making plans.

17. What is the woman planning to do on Saturday?


A. Attend a football game alone
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B. Go to a sporting event
C. Eat in the cafeteria and study
D. See a play

18. Why does the man want to go to the football game?


A. It’s the final game of the season.
B. It’s better than the drama department’s play.
C. It’s a very important game.
D. It’s close to the cafeteria.

19. What is at the same time as the music department’s concert?


A. A play B. A game
C. A study group meeting D. Dinner in the cafeteria

20. When does the man plan to study?


A. Saturday night B. After dinner in the cafeteria
C. Sunday afternoon D. Maybe next weekend

Part 3: Questions 21- 35


Directions: In this part, you will hear three talks or lectures. The talks or lectures will not be repeated.
There are five questions for each talk or lectures. For each question, choose the right answer A, B, C
or D.

Questions 21 to 25: Listen to a welcome address by a member of a club.

21. What is the main objective of the Sierra club?


A. To protect its members
B. To save the natural environment
C. To honor the memory of John Muir
D. To improve San Francisco’s natural beauty

22. Approximately how long has the Sierra club been in existence?
A. Only 1 year
B. Only 10 years
C. More than 100 years
D. About 200 years

23. What area was John Muir especially interested in saving?


A. San Francisco
B. All fifty states
C. The Sierra Nevada
D. The eastern California

24. Where does the Sierra club have members?


A. All over the world
B. In the entire United States
C. Only in California
D. Only in the Sierra Nevada

25. How often does the Sierra club publish a newsletter?


A. Every week B. Every two weeks
C. Every month D. Every two months

Questions 26 to 30: Listen to a talk by a university employee.

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26. Who is probably listening to this talk?
A. Students signing up for athletic teams
B. Students going on a tour of a university campus
C. Students playing various sports
D. Students attending a university dedication ceremony

27. What is needed to get into the exercise room?


A. Membership on an athletic team
B. Enrollment in an exercise class
C. A valid student identification card
D. Permission from a faculty member

28. Where should a student go to reserve a tennis court?


A. To the tennis court
B. To the arena
C. To the gymnasium
D. To the Athletic Department office

29. What does the university encourage its students to do?


A. Take part in art clubs
B. Take part in science clubs
C. Join in historical classes
D. Join in sports activities

30. What will the students probably do next?


A. Go to the Art Center
B. Sign up for sports classes
C. Visit the exercise room
D. Watch a football game

Questions 31 to 35: Listen to a talk given by a professor.

31. This talk would probably be given in which of the following courses?
A. Science B. Art
C. Literature D. Music

32. What point is the speaker trying to make about realism and naturalism?
A. They are completely different.
B. They are somewhat similar but have an essential difference.
C. They are exactly the same in all respects.
D. They are unrelated.

33. Which of the following best describes realism?


A. Objective B. Idealistic
C. Philosophical D. Environmental

34. Which of the following best describes naturalism?


A. Objective B. Idealistic
C. Philosophical D. Environmental

35. According to naturalist ideas, which of the following does NOT influence human actions?
A. Heredity B. Environment
C. Idealism D. Natural laws

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 01
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about hobbies:
- What do you often do in your free time?
- Do you prefer to stay alone or stay with your friends? Why?
- In your opinion, what are good and bad hobbies?
Let’s talk about pets:
- What is your favorite pet?
- What are the benefits of having a pet?
- Do people in your country like keeping pets? Why (not)?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You and your friends are planning to spend a Sunday evening out. There are
three following suggestions. Which option do you think is the best choice? What are the
reasons for your choice?
- Seeing a movie
- Going shopping
- Singing karaoke

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: The Internet is a good source to collect information.
The Internet

Easy access Rich information Low cost

- What do teenagers in your area often use the Internet for?


- Do you think every school should provide Internet connection for students?
- Should parents control their children’s use of the Internet?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 02
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your favorite fruit:
- Do you like eating fruits? Why (not)?
- What is your favorite fruit?
- How important is it to eat fruits every day?
Let’s talk about meal of the day:
- What is your favorite meal of the day?
- Do you cook or someone else does it for you?
- Do you prefer eating alone or with others? Why?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are offered an opportunity to travel to London. When would you prefer to
visit: spring, summer or winter? What are the reasons for your choice?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Online learning is really beneficial to students.
Online learning

Convenient Flexible Affordable

- Do you think online learning will be popular?


- What are the disadvantages of online learning compared to learning in traditional
classrooms?
- How has online learning changed over the last 20 years?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 03
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about favorite day of the year:
- What is your favorite day of the year?
- Do you prefer to be alone or with someone else on that day?
- What do you prefer to do on that day?
Let’s talk about sports:
- What is your favorite sport?
- Which do you prefer: play or watch a sport?
- Which sport is the most popular in your country? Why?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is planning a surprise for her parents’ 30th wedding anniversary.
The three following plans are suggested. Which one do you think is the best choice?
- Organizing a vacation abroad
- Buying them a pair of couple watches
- Designing a family photo album

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Private cars should be banned in big cities.
Private cars

Environmental pollution Traffic jams A waste of money

- What should the government do to limit cars on the roads?


- Which public transportation should be developed?
- Do you think public transports should be provided for free?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 04
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about parks:
- Do people in your country often go to parks?
- What makes a good park?
- What are the benefits of parks?
Let’s talk about your neighbors:
- Do you know the neighbors who live next door to you?
- Do you get on well with your neighbor?
- In what ways can neighbors be helpful?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your best friend’s birthday is coming. You are considering about a suitable
present for her. The three following options are suggested: a clothing item, a book, or a
pair of movie tickets. Which one do you think is the best choice?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Childhood is the most important time of a person’s life.
Childhood

Developing physical Forming personalities Learning things fast


activities

- What activities do children in your country enjoy doing the most?


- Who do you think have the most influence on children?
- What can parents do to help children have a beautiful childhood?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 05
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about house:
- Do you live in an apartment or a house?
- Can you describe your dream house?
- What are the disadvantages of living in an apartment?
Let’s talk about holiday:
- What do you often do on your holiday?
- Where do you often spend your holiday?
- Which do you prefer to spend your holiday in: overseas or in your country?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is going to study abroad next month. You are thinking about a gift
for her. Which one do you choose: a copy of her favorite book, a self-designed photo
album, or a silk scarf?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: A healthy breakfast is the best meal for your health.
Healthy breakfast

Healthy body Good work/study Disease prevention


concentration
- What types of food are good for health?
- Which times of the day are healthy to eat?
- What is the difference between your opinion and your parents’ towards going on a
diet?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 06
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about reading:
- Do you like reading? Why (not)?
- Which type of reading materials do you often read?
- Which type of reading materials is most popular?
Let’s talk about a room in your house.
- What is your favorite room in your house?
- What do you often do in this room?
- Would you like to change anything in this room?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your brother, studying in a college in Hanoi, is asking for your advice about
organizing an activity to celebrate the Women’s Day in his class. There are three
following suggestions. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- A class party
- A beauty contest in class
- A karaoke night

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Going camping is beneficial to college students.
Going camping

Discovering Relaxing Networking

- Is camping popular in your country?


- What are the negative effects of going camping?
- What can be done to encourage teenagers to protect the environment when
camping?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 07
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about going out:
- How often do you go out? Why that much/little?
- Who do you often go out with?
- Where do you often go to when you go out? Why?

Let’s talk about your favorite foreign country?


- What is your favorite foreign country?
- Have you ever been there? If yes, describe it? If no, do you wish to come there?
- Do you want to live the rest of your life there?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are finding a part-time job to practice your English. There are three types
of job below. Which one do you choose?
- Telephone operator
- Hotel receptionist
- Tourism agent

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Working in pairs helps students learn better at school.
Pair work

Learn from others Improve social skills Become more active

- When should pair work be used at school? Why?


- What are the disadvantages of working in pairs?
- What can teachers do to improve the quality of pair-work activities?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 08
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about jogging:
- Do you like jogging?
- Which do you prefer: jogging alone or jogging in a group?
- Is jogging a popular daily exercise in your country?
Let’s talk about emails:
- Do you often write emails?
- Which do you prefer: letter or email?
- Do you think emails will replace letters?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your class wants to do something to keep memories before graduation. There
are three following suggestions. Which option do you think is the best choice? What are
the reasons for your choice?
- A collection of essays
- A class photo book
- A class video

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Visiting a foreign country is a valuable experience for us.
Visiting a foreign country

Refresh Experience New friends

- Is going abroad for holiday popular in your country?


- What are the disadvantages of traveling abroad?
- Has the number of people traveling abroad changed much in the past few years?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 09
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about musical instruments:
- What is your favorite musical instrument?
- Do you play any musical instrument?
- Which musical instrument is the most popular in your country?
Let’s talk about computer games:
- Do you enjoy playing computer games?
- What kinds of games have you ever played?
- Is playing computer games good for children?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your cousin is a freshman at university in Hanoi. He is considering where to
stay during his student time. There are three following suggestions. Which option do you
think is the best choice? What are the reasons for your choice?
- In the university dormitory
- In a rented house with a friend
- At home and travel 50 km per day

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Cycling to work should be encouraged in big cities.
Cycling to work

Keep fit Save money Protect environment

- What kinds of people often go cycling to work?


- What are the disadvantages of cycling to work?
- Has the number of bicycle users changed much for the last 20 years?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 10
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your favorite website:
- What is your favorite website?
- How often do you visit this website?
- What do you use it for?
Let’s talk about the gift you like best:
- What is your favorite gift?
- How is it now?
- Which do you prefer: receiving or giving gifts?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is thinking about taking a part-time job. Which option do you
think is the best choice? What are the reasons for your choice?
- Shop assistant
- Home tutor
- Baby sitter

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Getting up early in the morning should be encouraged among teenagers.
Getting up early

Morning exercises Effective study Better preparation to go


to school
- What kinds of people often get up early?
- What are the negative effects of staying up late?
- What can be done to encourage people to get up early?

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SPEAKING TEST 11
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about cooking:
- When did you last cook? What did you cook?
- Do you find the cooking easy or hard to do? Why?
- Who do you think should be responsible for cooking in a family?
Let’s talk about traveling at work:
- Do you like a job which requires frequent traveling? Why (not)?
- How can we prepare for a good travel?
- Which jobs may make employees travel a lot?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your teacher is asking students’ opinions for the type of final exam they
would like to have. She provided 3 options:
- A spoken test
- A written test
- A home assignment

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are various causes of unemployment among the youth in the society.
Causes of unemployment

Overpopulation Under qualification Poor performance at work

- What kinds of people are out of work?


- What are the effects of unemployment?
- In your opinion, what are the solutions to deal with the above problem?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 12
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about doing exercises:
- How often do you do exercise?
- What are your favorite activities for exercise?
- What activity would you like to do in the future?
Let’s talk about meeting:
- Have you ever attended a meeting? Can you describe it?
- Do you think you should prepare well before a meeting? Why (not)?
- Do you like meeting? Why (not)?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: A university student is usually late for class. What should the teacher do in this
case?
- Asking him to wait outside for one period
- Fining him for 10.000VND each time
- Refusing to let him in

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are some benefits of keeping a personal diary.
A personal diary

Keeps memories Reduces stress Manages work better

- What kinds of people usually write diaries?


- What are the benefits of online diary compared to paper diary?
- Has the number of people using online diaries changed much in the last 50 years?
How?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 13
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about watching television:
- What are your favorite TV programs?
- When is the best time of the day for watching TV?
- Do you think watching TV is a waste of time?
Let’s talk about presentation skills:
- Have you ever made a presentation?
- How did you prepare for the presentation?
- What do you think you should avoid doing when making a presentation?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend’s class is going to participate in a contest named “My class is
No.1”. They are arguing about the performance in the contest among three options: a
group song, a flash mob or a drama. Which do you think is the best choice?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are some benefits of shopping at supermarkets.
Shopping at supermarkets

Reduces stress Offers competitive prices Has a variety of products

- What kinds of people often go shopping at supermarkets?


- What kinds of products are sold at supermarkets?
- Have the methods of shopping changed much in the last 20 years? How?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 14
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about shopping:
- When often do you go shopping?
- With whom do you prefer to go shopping?
- Do you like buying things at shopping malls?
Let’s talk about your favorite work location:
- Where do you want to work? Why?
- Would you like an office located in a high building?
- What kind of view do you want to have from your office?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend, a high school teacher, is always complaining about her naughty
students. Which of the following options would you suggest to help her deal with them:
- Informing their parents
- Punishing them with cleaning the classroom for one month
- Having a personal talk with them

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Doing housework is beneficial to children..
Children’s doing
housework

Improves their Gives them a sense of Helps them learn to share


organizational skills belonging
- What kinds of housework can children do?
- Do children in your country do more housework than they did in the past?
- What can be done to encourage children to do more housework?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 15
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about means of transportation:
- How do you usually travel to school/work?
- What do you do to save the travel cost?
- What means of transport do you prefer for a long-distance travel?
Let’s talk about your luck:
- Is luck important for you to be successful at work/study?
- Can you describe an experience when luck was important to you?
- What should you do to take advantages of luck?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is working in a team for his assignment, but one doesn’t involve
in. Your friend wants to ask for your opinion about the three following options:
- Informing the teacher
- Organizing a team meeting
- Giving her no point in the report

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Collecting stamps gives people a number of benefits..
Collecting stamps

Provide opportunities for Increases knowledge about Improves patience and


friendship culture attention to details
- What kinds of things do people often collect?
- What are the disadvantages of collecting things?
- Do people in your country collect things more than they did in the past?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 16
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your birthday:
- How do you often celebrate your birthday?
- What is the best birthday gift you have received?
- What are your plans for your next birthday?
Let’s talk about your ideal team-mate:
- How can you describe your ideal team-mate?
- What do you think is the most important quality that a team member should have?
- Are you a good team member? Why (not)?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You have seen your neighbor’s son playing computer games at the Internet
shop many times. What should you do? What are the reasons for your choice?
- Inform his parents
- Talk to him
- Talk to the shop owner

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Doing yoga is beneficial for community’s health?
Doing yoga

Reduces stress Improves breathing Improves attention

- What kind of people often does yoga in your country?


- How important is it to improve community health?
- What can be done to encourage more people to take up yoga?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 17
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your clothes:
- How do you choose your clothes every day?
- What are your favorite colors? Why?
- Is your fashion style influenced by the people around you? Why?
Let’s talk about your ideal team work:
- Do you often work in a team? How?
- What qualities do you think a team member should have?
- What are you doing to become a good team member?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is a teacher. He/she complains that many of her students do not do
homework. She is considering a punishment among three options. Which option do you
think is the best choice?
- Ask the students to rewrite the task 10 times
- Require them to stand at the class corner for one hour
- Ask the students to give some money

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Swimming brings a number of benefits for people.
Swimming

Reduces stress Improves health Good for meeting


people

- What kind of people often goes swimming in your country?


- How important is it to improve physical health?
- What can be done to encourage more people to take up swimming?

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VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 18
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about food:
- What do you usually have for dinner?
- Do you often go to a restaurant or cook yourself to enjoy your favorite dishes?
- What kind of food do people in your country have on special occasions?
Let’s talk about online shopping:
- Have you ever shopped online?
- Can you describe how you shop online?
- What are the most popular products that are sold online?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your cousin is the best student of the class this year. His parents are thinking
about a gift for him. Here are three options: a laptop, a holiday, or some money. Which
option do you think is the best choice?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are some benefits of have a public library.
Public library

Improves literacy Be a great place for Builds better


kids communities

- Do you think public libraries will be more popular in the future?


- What kind of people go to public libraries?
- What can be done to encourage people to go to public libraries?

143
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 19
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your eating habits:
- Who do you eat out with most often?
- Do you prefer to eat out or at home? Why?
- Is there anything that you want to change in your eating habits?
Let’s talk about working environment:
- How do you describe the working environment that you like?
- What do you think is the most important factor of a good working environment?
Why?
- What should employers do to make their working environment better?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend’s class is discussing whether they should take photos to celebrate
their graduation. They are considering three following options. What do you think is the
best choice?
- Take photos with formal clothes
- Take photos with informal clothes
- Take no photos at all

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Students are encouraged to take part in competitions.
Competitions

Improve social life Encourage self- Encourage learning


improvement from others

- What kind of competitions is popular in your country?


- What are various benefits of competitions?
- What can be done to encourage more young people to take part in competitions?

144
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 20
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about music:
- What kind of music do you enjoy most?
- Is there any other kind of music you want to listen to?
- Do you prefer live or recorded music?
Let’s talk about bonus at work:
- Have you ever awarded a bonus at work? How?
- What impacts does bonus have on employees?
- What should employees do to get bonus?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your cousin has been bullied by his friends at school for a long time. Your
friend asks for your advice what the boy should do. Which option do you think is the best
choice?
- Talk to his teacher
- Talk to his parents
- Tell his friend not to bully him any longer

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are some factors causing stress at work.
Stress at work

Too much work Poor working Bad management


conditions
- What kinds of people easily get stressed at work?
- What are the effects of being stressed at work?
- What can be done to reduce stress at work?

145
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 21
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your neighborhood:
- What do you like the most about your neighborhood?
- Who is the closest person to you in your neighborhood?
- Do you have any problems with your neighborhood?
Let’s talk about your favorite job:
- What job do you like to do?
- How can you describe this job?
- What would you do to get the job?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your brother is a talented student, and your family is considering which high
school he should study at. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- A school abroad in Australia
- A public school near your home
- A school for gifted students far from home
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: There are several ways to help others in the community.

Run a club or organization


Help them with daily tasks
Helping others in to support
the community

Give money, food or clothes

146
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 22
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about using the Internet:
- How often do you use the Internet?
- What do you do on the Internet?
- Is the Internet controlling your life? Why (not)?
Let’s talk about the company that you want to work for:
- Which company do you want to work for?
- How can you describe that company?
- What are you doing to be employed by that company?

PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)


You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend wants to improve her English skills. What should she do among
the following options?
- Join an English club
- Go to an English class at a center
- Talk to foreigners in public places

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are many benefits of living in the countryside.

Friendly neighbors
Fresh air
Living in the
countryside

Cheap cost

147
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 23
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about ways to keep in touch:
- How often do you keep in touch with your family and friends?
- Which do you prefer: talk to a person in person or via telephone?
- Do you and your parents have the same ways of connecting with people?
Let’s talk about advertisements:
- Is advertising popular in Vietnam? How?
- Which type of advertisement do you like best?
- Do you think advertisements help you buy the products you need?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: There is a discussion on how often to wear school uniforms. Which option do
you think is the best choice?
- All week
- Two days a week
- Not wearing uniforms at all
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: There are several benefits of living in the city.

More chances to get a Better education


good job Living in the city

Higher quality of health care


services

148
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 24
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your birthday:
- How do you often celebrate your birthday?
- What is the best birthday gift you have received?
- What are your plans for your next birthday?
Let’s talk about your ideal team-mate:
- How can you describe your ideal team-mate?
- What do you think is the most important quality that a team member should have?
- Are you a good team member? Why (not)?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your school plans to spend money improving its facilities. The headmaster
provided 3 options. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Rebuild the school library
- Build a new canteen
- Upgrade the laboratory
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Taking photos is beneficial to people.

Reduce stress
Save memories
Taking photos

Improve imagination

149
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 25
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your family:
- How do you often spend time with your family?
- How do your parents influence your lifestyle?
- Do you live in a nuclear or extended family?
Let’s talk about your ideal boss:
- How can you describe your ideal boss?
- What is the most important quality that a boss should have?
- Would you like to become a boss? Why (not)?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your class plans to organize a special activity to end the school year. Which
option do you think is the best choice?
- A party at the restaurant
- An one-day picnic
- A two-day trip
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: There are some benefits of watching films in the cinema.

Good sound quality Large screen


Going to the
cinema

Chance to gather with


friends/relatives

150
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 26
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about a time you were ill:
- Have you ever been ill?
- Did you visit the doctor? Why (not)?
- What did you do to overcome your illness?
Let’s talk about a place where you never want to come back:
- What is the place where you never want to come back?
- Why don’t you want to come back that place?
- Did you come there alone or with someone else?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your school manager wants to advertise your school and he is considering
about which means of advertisement to advertise the school. Which option do you think
is the best choice?
- The Internet
- Television
- Radio
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Being married requires people to consider many factors.

A suitable age for getting Careful preparation for


married Being married marriage life

Changed daily routine

151
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 27
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about online blog:
- Are you using an online blog? Why (not)?
- What do you use it for?
- How often do you use it?
Let’s talk about the moment when you get angry:
- Do you often get angry? Why (not)?
- What often make you get angry?
- What can you do to avoid getting angry?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your school plans to invest money in improving its educational quality. There
are three aspects to consider for the investment. Which aspect do you think is the best
choice?
- The quality of teachers
- The quality of students
- School facility
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Knowing to drive a car brings many benefits to people.

Convenient in bad weather Save time


Knowing to
drive a car

Go anywhere

152
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 28
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your favorite computer brand:
- What is your favorite computer brand?
- When did you start using it?
- Will you continue using it?
Let’s talk about your favorite pair of shoes:
- How often do you wear your favorite pair of shoes?
- Why do you like wearing this pair of shoes?
- Which do you prefer: sandals or shoes?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are the class monitor and there are some weak students in your class. You
are finding someone to help them. Who do you think is the best choice?
- Your teacher
- A second year student
- An excellent classmate
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Learning to make a cake can be a great experience for people.

Save money Relax


Making a cake

Make friends with who have


the same interest

153
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 29
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your favorite video:
- What is your favorite video?
- When do you often watch this video?
- Why do you like watching this video?
Let’s talk about your childhood game:
- What was your favorite childhood game?
- Who did you play it with?
- Why did you like playing this game?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are finding a place to take a communication skill course. Where do you
think is the best choice to improve your communication skills?
- A student club
- A famous Vietnamese center
- A foreign center
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: There are several things people should prepare before an important meeting.

Clothing The timetable


Preparation for an
important meeting

The purpose of meeting

154
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 30
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about stress before an exam:
- How often do you get stressed before an exam?
- Is it good or bad to get stressed before an exam?
- What should you do to overcome your stress?
Let’s talk about interviews:
- Have you ever attended any interview?
- How did you prepare for that interview?
- How important is it to prepare carefully for an interview?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are going to have a 10-week summer holiday and you want to find
something to do. There are three following options. Which one do you think is the best
choice?
- Take a part-time job
- Participate in volunteer work
- Take a short course
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: There are some ways to improve public transport system in Hanoi.

Keep a better schedule Offer more routes


Improving public
transport system

Develop customer service

155
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 31
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your family:
- Do you live with your parents?
- How often do you visit them?
- How much time do you spend on talking with your family members?
Let’s talk about future plans:
- What is your plan for this lunar new year?
- Why do you have that plan?
- If you had a lot of money, where would you spend your holiday?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend wants to advertise your English centre and he is considering about
which means of advertisement to advertise the centre. Which option do you think is the
best choice?
- Television
- Facebook
- Phone messages
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Being married is one of the greatest experiences in my life..

Share financial issues


Share life
Being married

Have more support

156
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 32
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about hobbies:
- Do you have a lot of free time?
- What do you do in your free time?
- Who do you spend your free time with?
Let’s talk about your study:
- What is your major?
- How many hours do you spend in class a day?
- What kind of job do you want to do in the future?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are going to open a shop. There are three options to consider. Which shop
do you think is the best choice?
- An internet shop
- A clothes shop
- A souvenir shop
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Learning to drive is valuable for people.

Carries more people


Convenient in bad
weather Learning to
drive

Save time

157
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 33
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your hobbies:
- What do you often do in your free time?
- Do you prefer to stay alone or with someone else in your free time?
- How often do you go travelling?
Let’s talk about your friends:
- Do you have a lot of friends?
- What do you often do with your friends?
- How important are your friends to you?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are given an opportunity to visit Hue, and you are considering when you
can enjoy the visit. When do you think is the best choice?
- Spring
- Summer
- Winter
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Soft skills courses are beneficial to students.

Creative thinking Social networking


Soft skill courses

Teamwork skills

158
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 34
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your living place:
- Where are you living?
- Do you live in a flat or a house?
- What is your dream house like?
Let’s talk about holiday places:
- What is your favorite holiday place?
- Do you prefer to have a holiday overseas or in the country?
- Where do you plan to go on your next holiday?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is going to study abroad next week. You are considering
something special to give her. Which one do you choose?
- A necklace
- A photo album
- A traditional scarf
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Trees are very important in people’s life.

A good source of food Better environment


Importance of
trees

Flood prevention

159
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 35
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about where you live:
- Do you live in a big city or in the country?
- What part of your hometown is best for visitors?
- Do you want to live there the whole life?
Let’s talk about neighbors:
- Do you know the neighbors who live next door to you?
- Do you get on well with your neighbor?
- In what ways can neighbors be helpful?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your best friend’s birthday is on the next weekend. You are considering
something special to give her as a birthday gift. There are three following options. Which
one do you think is the best choice?
- A novel
- A T-shirt
- A pair of concert tickets
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Games are useful in the classroom.

- Have fun Learn skills


Classroom games

Gain attention

160
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 36
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about sport centers:
- Do you usually go to sport centers?
- Do you go there alone or with someone else?
- What are the qualities of a good sport center?
Let’s talk about outdoor activities at school/university:
- Do you like to take part in outdoor activities at your school?
- What kinds of outdoor activities do you participate?
- What are the most popular outdoor activities in Vietnam?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your company is planning a two-day conference for employees. There are
three following suggested places. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- At a hotel
- At a conference center
- At your company
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: More young people are choosing to live overseas.

Work conditions Living conditions


Living overseas

Culture understanding

- What countries are the most popular destination for people in your country?
- What are potential risks young people may face when they living abroad?
- How can people prepare before moving to another country?

161
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 37
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about tourism:
- Do you like travelling? Why (not)?
- Is your country an expensive place to visit?
- Which places would you recommend tourists to visit in your country?
Let’s talk about your learning style:
- Can you describe how you learnt at school?
- What is your favorite learning style?
- May learning style affect your ability to learn?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are designing your office room. Who should prepare that?
- Yourself
- A design company
- A freelance designer
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Childhood is the best time in one’s life.

Worry free Parents’ care


Childhood

Childhood games

- At what age should children live on their own?


- Does today children’s generation feel the same about childhood as ours?
- Do children nowadays have to suffer from competitive pressure sooner?

162
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 38
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about public library:
- Have you ever been to a public library?
- What do you usually do when you are there?
- What are the benefits of going to a public library?
Let’s talk about your subjects at school:
- What subjects do you like studying?
- Are there any subjects you find difficult?
- Would you like to add any subjects to the school curriculum?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your company is organizing an activity for the employees on the occasion
May Day holiday. You are the event manager of the activity. Where do you think is the
best choice for that activity?
- A beachside resort
- A hotel in the city
- A tourist attraction
PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)
Topic: Children should learn to play a musical instrument.
Patience development Passion exploration
Musical
instrument

A form of entertainment

- Is it required to teach children to play a musical instrument?


- At what age should children start learning to play a musical instrument?
- What is parents’ role in identifying and developing children’s passion for something?

163
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 39
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about student life:
- Do you enjoy your student life?
- What do you like most about your school life?
- What is your advice for someone who is going to enter your school/university?
Let’s talk about your study plans:
- What are your study plans?
- Do you think your current study prepares for your future job?
- Would you like to attend soft skill courses in the future?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your aunt, a high school teacher, is thinking about an award for the best student
of the month. Which option should she choose: a dictionary, a certificate, a small present?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Dinner is the most important meal of the day in family life.
Time together Tradition preservation
Dinner

Positive effects on kids

164
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 40
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about plants:
- Have you ever planted a tree?
- Are there a lot of trees where you live? How do you feel?
- Would you like to have plants in your house?
Let’s talk about your classes:
- What do you think about the lessons in your class?
- Does the teaching method interest you?
- What facilities would you like your class to have?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend's class plans to organize an outdoor activity. Which option should
they choose? A soft skill course, a dance class, a voluntary activity.

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Family rules are important for children's development.
Being aware of Controlling behaviors
discipline Family rules better

Shaping personalities

165
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 41
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about entertainment:
- How often do you go to the leisure center?
- Do you prefer to go there alone or with someone else?
- What would you like to have in a leisure center?
Let’s talk about your relationships at school:
- Do you get on well with your teachers at school?
- How is your relationship with your classmates?
- Have you ever had a big argument with your classmates?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Your friend is preparing her applications for a scholarship for a master's
degree abroad. Which do you think she should spend the most effort on: her study result,
her voluntary activities or her language skills?

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Travelling abroad is a good way to spend your holidays.

New experiences Wider knowledge of


Travelling cultures

Better tourism services

166
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 42
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about volunteer work:
- Have you ever taken part in a voluntary activity?
- Do you prefer doing voluntary work alone or with a group of friends?
- How do you feel about doing voluntary work?
Let’s talk about your daily activities:
- Which activity do you prefer doing in the morning?
- What do you like having for lunch?
- How many hours a day do you spend watching TV? Do you think it’s fine for
you?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: The Ministry of Education and Training is asking for people's opinion about
the method of selecting university students. Which option do you choose?
- Using high school results
- Organizing an entrance exam
- Using the national exam results

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: The Internet is becoming more and more important for school work

Homework submission Online discussion


The Internet forums

Information search

167
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 43
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about weddings:
- Have you ever been to a wedding?
- What clothes do people normally wear to a wedding?
- What kind of gift do you buy for the couple?
Let’s talk about your study/work:
- What do you like most about your study/work?
- Do you like studying alone or in a group?
- Have you ever been awarded in school? If yes, what is it?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: Many students in your friend’s class use mobile phones during the lessons.
Which solution do you choose?
- Setting the rule of no mobile phone in class
- Fining students who let the phone ring for 50.000VND
- Keeping students’ mobile phones till the semester ends if it rings

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: Riding a bicycle has a number of benefits.
Environmental Cost saving
protection
Riding a bike

Good exercise

168
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 44
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about your accommodation:
- Are you living in a house or flat? Where?
- What do you want to change about the house?
- Which do you prefer: a home with a garden or without? Why?
Let’s talk about decision making:
- Are you good at making decisions?
- What was a big decision you made?
- Who do you often ask for advice when you have an important decision?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You have finished an important and stressful exam. You want to go
somewhere to relax. Which option do you choose?
- Cuc Phuong National Park
- Ha Long Bay
- Dai Lai Resort

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are many ways to avoid the overuse of mobile phones

Turning off time No phones in bedroom


The overuse of
mobile phones

No email checking when off


work

169
VSTEP
SPEAKING TEST 45
PART I: SOCIAL INTERACTION (3’)
Let’s talk about reading:
- How often do you go to the library? When was the last time?
- How many hours do you spend reading in a week?
- How many books have you read in your life?
Let’s talk about your education:
- Did you enjoy your time at elementary school?
- What is the most important lesson you have ever had?
- Which teacher has influenced you most? What did he/she do for you?
PART II: SITUATION DISCUSSION (4’)
You will be given a card with a situation, and you have 1 minute to study the situation.
Situation: You are doing a project on career planning. There are 3 ways for you to
complete the project. Which option do you choose?
- Interviewing persons doing the job you want to know
- Reading about that job on the Internet
- Reading career guidebooks

PART III: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT (5’)


Topic: There are disadvantages of using educational games in class.

Making noise Creating negative


Disadvantages behaviors
of educational
games

Consuming too much time

170
PART 2: SOLUTION DISCUSSION
1. Your company is going to launch a new product and you are assigned to make an
advertisement. Which means of advertising do you choose?
- Phone advertising
- Email advertising
- Leaflets
2. You are promoting yourself for class monitor. Which method do you choose to
introduce yourself?
- Video
- Poster
- Leaflets
3. One of your group members hasn’t shared in the groupwork. You and your groupmates
are thinking how to solve this problem.
- Tell the problem to the teacher
- Remove his name from the assignment
- Tell him to solve the problem
4. You have been offered a two day job at the Autumn Fair; however, you will have a
mini-test that time. Which one do you think is the best choice?
- Refuse the job and take the test
- Accept the job and ignore the test
- Ask for an alternative test

171
PART 3: TOPIC DEVELOPMENT
Topic 1: Teenagers should spend more time being outdoors.
Improve health Broaden relationships
Being outdoors

Entertain themselves

Topic 2: Playing sports brings lots of benefits for people.


Improve health Relax
Playing sports

Meet new people

Topic 3: Students should learn English.


Find a good job Make new friends
Learning
English

Access various sources

Topic 4: Music can help to improve the quality of life.


Relax Connect people
Music

Improve concentration

172
Cập nhật xu hướng đề 2019-2021:
Part 1:
- Meal
- Outdoor activity
- Play computer games
- University
- Benefits of a good night’s sleep
- Cooking
- Advice
- Travelling
- Home-cooked food
- Saving time
- Coffee or tea
- Hot or cold water
- Cold weather
- Computer
- Eating ice cream
- Robots
- Music (traditional music, musical instrument)
- Playing indoors vs. playing outdoors
Part 2:
1. You have been working very hard throughout the year and you want to give a
present to yourself. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Go to the spa
- Buy new clothes
- Buy a gold watch
2. The Teachers’ Day is coming and you are thinking about a present to give to your
American teacher. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Aodai
- A book in Vietnamese
- Flower

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3. Your grandmother has just come home after a month at hospital. You are thinking
about a surprise for her. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Make her favorite dish
- Buy her some flowers
- Buy her a massage machine
4. You have a 10 year old nephew and he is going to visit you. You are thinking
about somewhere to take him to. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Go to the cinema
- Go to the park
- Go to the shopping mall
5. You are given a new microwave, and you are thinking about how to deal with
your old microwave which is still in good condition. Which option do you think is
the best choice?
- Give it to someone in need
- Sell it online
- Throw it away
6. You are thinking about a way to apologize your friend. Which option do you
think is the best choice?
- Give her a gift
- Send her a message
- Make a phone call
7. You are going to work online to earn some money. Which option do you think is
the best choice?
- Open an online store
- Write reviews on beauty products
- Create/design clips (and upload on youtube)
8. You are encountering sleeplessness and you are thinking about a way to overcome
the problem. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Do exercise before sleeping
- Take some sleeping pills
- Count sheep

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9. The temperature in Hanoi is very high in summer and you feel very hot. You are
thinking about a way to help you reduce the body heat. Which option do you think
is the best choice?
- Go to the swimming pool
- Drink cold water
- Stay indoors
10. You are thinking about a way to say Thank you to your friend who lent you
money. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Post Thank you on her facebook
- Give her a gift
- Send her a message
11. You are planning to have a trip to somewhere with your family. Your family has 2
adults and 2 children. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- Sam Son beach
- Ly Son island
- Fansipang Mount
12. Your friend is going to take up yoga to improve her health. She is consider when
she can do yoga. Which option do you think is the best choice?
- In the early morning
- After lunch time
- 6 p.m. after work
Part 3:
1. There is an increase in youth crime for some reasons.
- Lack of parents’ care
- Mental illness
- Financial difficulties
2. There are several factors to consider when choosing a life partner.
- Shared values
- Suitable personality
- Physical attraction
3. Homework should be banned at school for some reasons.

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- Stress
- Time to play
4. There are several factors affecting work performance.
- Salary
- Working conditions
- Promotion opportunities
5. There are some negative effects of overworking.
- Physical health problems
- Mental health problems
- Lack time for family and friends
6. Going on a diet to lose weight has certain negative effects on health.
- Negative feelings
- Nutrient imbalance
- Physical illness
7. Exam pressure causes many negative influences on learners.
- Physical health problems
- Mental health problems
- Poor concentration
8. There are some reasons why students lose motivation to learn English.
- Unsuitable teaching method
- Not enough facility
- Lack of self-motivation

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7
UNIT 7
FORMAL & INFORMAL LETTERS

WRITING
FORMAL LETTER VS. INFORMAL LETTER
Greeting (chào)
Dear Mr (Mrs / Ms / Dr) Smith, Dear Smith,
Dear Sir/Madam,
Previous contact (nói lại về thư họ viết
cho mình) Thanks for your e-mail.
Thank you for your e-mail regarding my Re your e-mail,...
feedback on your service.
Sorry, I haven't written for ages, but I've
Further to your last e-mail,...
been really busy.
I apologise for not getting in contact with you
before now.

Reasons for writing (lý do viết thư)


I am writing in connection with your Just a short note about...
requests about your bus service quality.
I'm writing about...
Or I am writing with regard to your requests
Here's the... you wanted.
about your bus service quality.
I got your name from...
In reply to your e-mail, here are some of my
comments/feedbacks/viewpoints about your Please note that...
service.
Your name was given to me by...

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We would like to point out that..

Giving information (đưa thông tin)


I am writing to let you know that... Just a note to say...

I am delighted/happy to tell you that SVO We can confirm that...


(khen 1). In addition, SVO (khen 2).
Good news!
Moreover, SVO (khen 3).
Unfortunately,...
I regret to inform you that SVO (chê 1).
Furthermore, SVO (chê 2).

Following are several recommendations for


your improvement. Firstly, you are advised
to V. Another solution is that you should + V.

Asking for information (hỏi xin thông tin)


Could you give me some information about... Can you tell me a little more about...
I would like to know... I'd like to know...
I am interested in receiving/finding out... Please send me...

Making requests (nhờ vả)


I would be grateful if you could... Please could you...
I wonder if you could... Could you...?
Do you think I could have...? Can I have...?
Thank you in advance for your help in this I'd appreciate your help on this.
matter.

Promising action (hứa hẹn)


I will... I'll...
I will investigate the matter. I'll look into it.
I will contact you again shortly. I'll get back to you soon.

Offering help (đề nghị giúp đỡ)


Would you like me to...? Do you want me to...?

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If you wish, I would be happy to... Shall I...?
Let me know whether you would like me to Let me know if you'd like me to...
provide more information.

Final comment (dặn dò thêm)


Thank you for your help. Thanks again for...

Do not hesitate to contact us again if you Let me know if you need anything else.
require any further information.
Just give me a call if you have any
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. My number is …
questions. My direct line is 094566…

Closing (kết)
I am looking forward to receiving your reply. Looking forward to...(+ -ing)
Give my regards to... Best wishes to...
Best wishes (Trân trọng,) See you soon.
Best regards (Trân trọng) Bye (for now)

VSTEP WRITING SAMPLE 1:


You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You are a regular passenger of a bus service near your home. You received an email
from the manager, Ms. Janet Taylor, asking for your feedback about the service there.
Read part of her email below.

Thank you very much for using our salon service. As you use our service so often, I am
writing to ask for your feedback so that we can improve the quality of the service.

We would be grateful if you could tell us the reasons why you choose our service and
whether or not you are satisfied with it. We would also want to know if there is anything
you are unhappy with and things you would like to be changed.

We look forward to your reply.

Write an email responding to Ms. Janet Taylor.

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You should write at least 120 words. You should write at least 120 words. You are not allowed
to include your name or address. Your response will be evaluated in terms of Task Fulfillment,
Organization, Vocabulary and Grammar.

VSTEP WRITING SAMPLE 2:


You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You received an email from your English friend, Jessica. She asked you for some
information about one of your friends. Read part of her email below.

I’ve just got an email from your friend, Linh. She said she’s going to take a course in
London this summer. She asked if she could stay with my family until she could find an
apartment. Can you tell me a bit about her (things like her personality, hobbies and
interests, and her current work or study if possible)? I want to see if she will fit in with
my family.

Write an email responding to Jessica.


You should write at least 120 words. You should write at least 120 words. You are not allowed
to include your name or address. Your response will be evaluated in terms of Task Fulfillment,
Organization, Vocabulary and Grammar.

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